Make dinner easy with this One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken recipe! Juicy chicken, zesty lemon, and garlic roasted in one pan. Perfect for weeknights or meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy one-pan meal
- Bursting with fresh lemon and garlic flavor
- Family-friendly and budget-conscious
- Minimal cleanup
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
For the Lemon Garlic Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juice and zest
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or fresh herbs)
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a slight kick
Optional Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) if finishing in the oven.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Remove chicken and set aside. In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté 30 seconds–1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in lemon juice, zest, chicken broth, butter, and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer 2–3 minutes.
- Return chicken to the skillet and spoon some sauce over the top.
- If using the oven, bake for 10–12 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices, then serve immediately.
Equipment Needed
- Oven-safe skillet or sauté pan
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Tongs or spatula
Tips & Variations
- Protein swap: Chicken thighs or turkey cutlets work well.
- Veggie addition: Add asparagus, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to the pan for a complete meal.
- Flavor boost: Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for extra depth.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes
- Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables
- Drizzle extra sauce on top for maximum flavor
Nutrition Facts (Approximate per Serving)
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fat: 22g
Conclusion
This One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken proves that flavorful, healthy dinners don’t have to be complicated. With just one pan and simple ingredients, you can make a restaurant-worthy meal at home in minutes.
FAQ – One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but thaw completely before cooking for best results.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prepare sauce and chicken separately and reheat together when ready to serve.
Can I bake the whole recipe from the start?
Yes, but searing the chicken first ensures a golden, flavorful crust.
What vegetables go best with this?
Asparagus, green beans, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes roast well in the pan alongside chicken.