One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken | Quick & Flavorful 30-Minute Recipe

Are you searching for a quick, delicious, and healthy dinner option that doesn’t leave you with a pile of dishes? Look no further than this One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken recipe! Packed with bright citrus flavors, rich garlic undertones, and a perfectly balanced savory-sweet sauce, this dish is an absolute winner. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also low-carb, high-protein, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Minimal Cleanup: One pan means fewer dishes to wash.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of lemon, garlic, and buttery goodness makes every bite irresistible.
• Versatile & Customizable: Serve it with rice, vegetables, or pasta for a complete meal.
• Healthy & Nutritious: High in protein, low in carbs, and full of essential vitamins.

Ingredients for One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt & pepper to taste

For the Lemon Garlic Sauce:

• 3 tbsp butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• Juice of 2 lemons
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tbsp honey
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)
• Lemon slices (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Generously season the chicken breasts on both sides.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce

3. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Deglaze the Pan: Pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest, scraping the bottom of the pan to lift any flavorful bits.
5. Add Seasoning: Stir in Italian seasoning and honey. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly reduced.

Step 3: Combine & Simmer

6. Return the Chicken: Place the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Spoon the sauce over the top.
7. Final Simmer: Allow the chicken to cook for an additional 10-12 minutes until fully cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
8. Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and add optional lemon slices for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, making it easy to customize based on your preferences:

• Rice: White rice, brown rice, or quinoa soak up the delicious sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts add a nutritious touch.
• Pasta: Serve over angel hair pasta or fettuccine for a heartier meal.
• Salad: A fresh garden salad with balsamic vinaigrette complements the citrusy chicken.

Tips for the Best One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken

• Use Fresh Lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice enhances the dish’s flavor more than bottled lemon juice.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Check the internal temperature to prevent dryness.
• Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a more savory sauce, reduce the honey or omit it altogether.
• Double the Sauce: If you love extra sauce for drizzling over rice or pasta, double the broth and seasonings.
• Marinate for More Flavor: If you have time, marinate the chicken in lemon juice, olive oil, and garlic for 30 minutes before cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work great in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a few minutes longer to cook through.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or microwave until warmed through.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Cook the chicken and sauce separately, then store them in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth if needed.

4. Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze cooked chicken in the sauce for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

5. Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute butter with a dairy-free alternative like olive oil or ghee.

6. What other herbs can I use?

If you want a different flavor profile, try using rosemary, thyme, or basil instead of Italian seasoning.

Conclusion

This One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken recipe is the perfect blend of simplicity and gourmet flavors, making it an excellent addition to your meal rotation. With minimal prep and easy cleanup, it’s ideal for busy families or anyone craving a homemade, flavorful meal without the hassle. Whether you serve it with rice, pasta, or veggies, this dish is guaranteed to please your taste buds. Give it a try tonight and enjoy a delicious, hassle-free dinner that will become a staple in your home!

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