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Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet

This Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet features tender chicken breasts cooked in a lively lemon and garlic sauce. The dish develops a crispy exterior with juicy interiors, enhanced by a bright, tangy glaze that coats each piece with vibrant flavor.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts pounded to even thickness
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for searing
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice about 1-2 lemons
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest finely grated
  • 1 tablespoon honey optional for balance
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Skillet or frying pan
  • Kitchen tongs
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then season them generously with salt, pepper, and dried oregano on both sides.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering and just starting to smoke.
  3. Carefully place the chicken breasts in the hot skillet and cook undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy on the bottom.
  4. Flip the chicken with tongs and cook for another 4-5 minutes until cooked through and nicely browned on the other side.
  5. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate. Tent with foil to keep warm while you make the sauce.
  6. Add minced garlic to the same skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant and starting to turn golden, being careful not to burn it.
  7. Pour in the lemon juice and add honey if using; scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon, allowing the sauce to simmer and slightly reduce for 2-3 minutes.
  8. Stir in the lemon zest and cook for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld into a bright, tangy sauce.
  9. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top to coat each piece evenly. Let everything cook together for 2 minutes until heated through.
  10. Remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the chicken to a serving plate, pouring the remaining sauce over the top for a glossy finish.
  11. Garnish with additional lemon zest or fresh herbs if desired, then serve hot with your favorite sides.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon juice and garlic for 30 minutes before cooking. You can also add capers or chopped parsley for variation.