Lemon Garlic Skillet Chicken: Easy 20-Minute Meal (Print Version)
Lemon Garlic Chicken is a quick and flavorful skillet meal ready in just 20 minutes. Tender chicken breasts with bright lemon and savory garlic sauce.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 5 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Gluten-Free
# Ingredients:
→ The Skillet Star
01 -
1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch thick cutlets
→ Zesty Garlic Infusion
02 -
2 large lemons (for 1/4 cup fresh juice and 1 tsp zest)
03 -
4 cloves garlic, minced
04 -
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
05 -
1 tsp dried oregano
06 -
1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
→ Golden Sauté & Seasoning
07 -
2 tbsp olive oil
08 -
1 tbsp cornstarch
09 -
1/2 tsp salt
10 -
1/4 tsp black pepper
→ Fresh Finish
11 -
1 tbsp unsalted butter
12 -
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Cut 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch thick cutlets. In a bowl, toss the chicken with 1 tbsp cornstarch, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. This seasoning ensures a perfect golden sear for your Lemon Garlic Chicken: Easy 20-Min Skillet Wonder.
02 -
In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (from 2 large lemons), 1 tsp lemon zest, 4 cloves minced garlic, 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional), 1 tsp dried oregano, and 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth. Whisk well to create your zesty garlic infusion.
03 -
Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken cutlets in a single layer, cooking for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F). Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
04 -
Pour the lemon garlic sauce mixture into the hot skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. This forms the heart of your Lemon Garlic Chicken: Easy 20-Min Skillet Wonder.
05 -
Return the cooked chicken cutlets to the skillet, turning to coat them in the thickened sauce. Stir in 1 tbsp unsalted butter until melted and the sauce is glossy. Ensure the chicken is heated through and well coated.
06 -
Garnish your Lemon Garlic Chicken: Easy 20-Min Skillet Wonder generously with 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately with your favorite sides for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal.
# Notes:
01 -
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in half of the lemon garlic sauce for 15-20 minutes before cooking.
02 -
Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts; adjust cooking time slightly until cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
03 -
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, pasta, or a simple green salad to soak up the delicious sauce.
04 -
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large skillet
02 -
Cutting board
03 -
Chef's knife
04 -
Measuring cups
05 -
Measuring spoons
06 -
Whisk
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 380 kcal
Total Fat: 16 g
Total Carbohydrate: 3 g
Protein: 50 g