Easy Lemon Chicken Skillet Recipe
The Easy Lemon Chicken Skillet is one of those magic-in-a-pan dinners that come together faster than you’d ever expect, yet taste like you fussed for hours. Zingy lemon, savory chicken, and a dreamy pan sauce unite for a dish that’s as bright and happy as a sunny spring day. Whether you’re feeding the family on a hectic weeknight or impressing friends at a casual gathering, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort—you’ll want to make it again and again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients are the real stars here, each adding layers of flavor, juiciness, or color to create a skillet supper that’s truly next-level. Don’t skip the fresh lemon and parsley—they lift the dish right off your plate. Here’s what you’ll need, with tips for making every bite the best it can be:
- Chicken thighs or breasts (1½ pounds): Thighs give you richer, juicier flavor, but breasts keep things extra lean—either works, just don’t overcook!
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning; it wakes up all of the dish’s flavors.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): A gentle heat that balances the brightness of the lemon.
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Lends subtle depth and compliments the zesty sauce.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): For beautifully browning the chicken and enriching the sauce.
- Fresh garlic, minced (3 cloves): Adds aroma and savoriness as the sauce base; use more for extra punch!
- Chicken broth (½ cup): Helps make the sauce silky and savory—low sodium if you like more control over seasoning.
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice (¼ cup): Fresh is key for the signature tang that makes this dish shine.
- Honey (1 tablespoon): Just enough to round out the tartness and add a gorgeous glaze.
- Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon): Brings a hint of sharpness and complexity to the sauce.
- Cornstarch mixed with water (1 teaspoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water): Thickens the pan sauce just the right amount.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (1 tablespoon, optional): A pop of green and flavor—totally worth adding if you have it on hand.
- Lemon slices for garnish: Not just pretty; they let everyone know what’s in store for their tastebuds!
How to Make Easy Lemon Chicken Skillet
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Pat your chicken thighs or breasts dry, then sprinkle both sides generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This quick step is your ticket to a flavorful, well-seasoned bite in every forkful, so don’t rush it—give the spices a gentle press so they really stick.
Step 2: Sear for Maximum Flavor
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, lay the chicken pieces in (work in batches if needed). Sear for 4 to 5 minutes per side until a delicious golden brown crust develops and the chicken is cooked through. Transfer to a plate and keep nearby—there’s so much flavor left in that skillet!
Step 3: Build the Garlic-Lemon Sauce
In the same pan, toss in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds, stirring frequently. When it smells irresistible, stir in the chicken broth, lemon juice, honey, and Dijon mustard. Let this mixture bubble away for 2 to 3 minutes so all the flavors can get to know each other.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
Whisk together cornstarch with a splash of water, then swirl this slurry into the bubbling sauce. Simmer for another minute or so—the sauce will magically thicken into a beautifully glossy, spoon-coating consistency, perfect for draping over your chicken.
Step 5: Finish and Garnish
Return the chicken to the skillet, making sure each piece is bathed in that luscious lemony sauce. Spoon a bit more over the top, and let everything cook together for another 2 minutes so the chicken can soak up extra flavor. Right before serving, shower with parsley and nestle in some fresh lemon slices for irresistible color and zing.
How to Serve Easy Lemon Chicken Skillet
Garnishes
This is one of those dishes where garnishes really make it sing. Scatter plenty of fresh parsley and tuck a few thin lemon slices around the chicken for a restaurant-worthy finish. If you’re feeling fancy, a dash of extra cracked black pepper on top adds lovely color and a little extra kick.
Side Dishes
To round out your Easy Lemon Chicken Skillet, you can’t go wrong with a buttery heap of rice or creamy mashed potatoes—both are excellent for soaking up the bright, tangy sauce. Roasted asparagus, green beans, or a simple arugula salad also make ideal partners, balancing the citrusy punch with earthy freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a beautiful family-style meal, serve the chicken straight from the skillet in the center of the table, letting everyone help themselves to chicken, sauce, and those irresistible garnishes. Or, slice the chicken and fan it over a bed of couscous or quinoa, spooning extra sauce over the top for an elegant plated look. If you’re packing lunch, try tucking sliced Easy Lemon Chicken Skillet into wraps with crunchy greens and a drizzle of the skillet sauce—delicious warm or at room temperature!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Easy Lemon Chicken Skillet stores beautifully and makes for flavorful lunches throughout the week. Let everything cool completely, then transfer the chicken and sauce to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay delicious for up to 3 days, and the flavors deepen over time!
Freezing
If you want to stash some away for later, you’re in luck—this dish freezes well. Pop cooled portions (with sauce) into freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months; just remember to label and date for easy grabbing.
Reheating
For best results, reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep everything juicy. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too, just cover and use short bursts to avoid drying out the chicken. Garnish with a touch of fresh parsley or lemon before serving to refresh those bright, lively flavors.
FAQs
Can I use bottled lemon juice for Easy Lemon Chicken Skillet?
Freshly squeezed lemon juice really delivers that vibrant citrus hit, but bottled lemon juice will work in a pinch if you’re short on time—just expect a slightly milder flavor.
What’s the best chicken cut for this recipe?
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs stay juicy and flavorful even if slightly overcooked, making them a forgiving star in this dish. Chicken breasts are leaner and also tasty, but keep a close eye to prevent them from drying out.
Can I make this dish dairy-free and gluten-free?
Absolutely! Since Easy Lemon Chicken Skillet contains no dairy and uses cornstarch (rather than wheat flour), it’s naturally gluten-free and dairy-free—the perfect fit for a variety of dietary preferences.
What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?
Grainy mustard or even a touch of yellow mustard can stand in for Dijon in a pinch, though the flavor will be a bit different. The mustard’s purpose is mainly to add sharpness and depth to the sauce.
How can I make Easy Lemon Chicken Skillet even more flavorful?
Try marinating the chicken in the seasonings plus a splash of olive oil and lemon juice for 30 minutes before cooking, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a gentle kick!
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a go-to meal that feels special but is simple enough for any night of the week, the Easy Lemon Chicken Skillet truly delivers. It’s bright, satisfying, and guaranteed to win over even the pickiest eaters. Try it once, and I promise you’ll be keeping lemons on hand just for this recipe!
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Easy Lemon Chicken Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Lemon Chicken Skillet is a flavorful and quick stovetop chicken dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. Tangy lemon and honey sauce paired with tender chicken make this dish a family favorite.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- lemon slices for garnish
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet, sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Make the sauce: In the same skillet, cook minced garlic, then add chicken broth, lemon juice, honey, and Dijon mustard. Simmer for 2-3 minutes. Stir in cornstarch slurry and simmer until sauce thickens slightly.
- Finish the dish: Return chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over the top, and cook for another 2 minutes. Garnish with parsley and lemon slices before serving.
Notes
- This dish pairs well with rice, couscous, or roasted vegetables.
- Chicken thighs offer more flavor and juiciness, but breasts can be used if cooked carefully.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken portion with sauce
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
