Skillet & One-Pan

Chicken And Lemon Skillet

Name: Chicken And Lemon Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) chicken thighs, boneless; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried rosemary; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 1 cup chicken broth; 1/4 cup white wine (optional); 2 tbsp butter

By Theo Calloway · June 19, 2026 · Skillet & One-Pan

Prep15 min

Cook20 min

Total40 min

Serves4

I still remember the first time I made a Chicken And Lemon Skillet for my family. The combination of juicy chicken, tangy lemon, and savory herbs was a huge hit, and it's been a staple in our household ever since. There's something special about cooking a meal in one pan, watching the flavors meld together as the dish comes to life.

This recipe is all about simplicity and flavor. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that's both comforting and elegant. Whether you're a busy weeknight cook or a weekend entertainer, this Chicken And Lemon Skillet is sure to become a favorite.

One of the things I love about this recipe is its versatility. You can serve it with a variety of sides, from roasted vegetables to creamy mashed potatoes. And because it's made in one pan, cleanup is a breeze. So why not give it a try and see why it's become a staple in our household?

As a home cook, I'm always on the lookout for recipes that are easy to make and delicious to eat. This Chicken And Lemon Skillet fits the bill perfectly. The chicken is cooked to perfection, with a nice brown crust on the outside and juicy meat on the inside. And the lemon sauce adds a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.

In this recipe, I'll walk you through the steps to make a delicious Chicken And Lemon Skillet. From prep to finish, I'll share my tips and tricks for getting the best results. So let's get started and make a meal that's sure to please even the pickiest eaters!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal prep time.
The combination of chicken, lemon, and herbs is a classic and delicious flavor combination.
The dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
It's a great way to get your daily dose of protein and vegetables.
The recipe is versatile and can be served with a variety of sides.
It's a budget-friendly option that won't break the bank.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to this recipe is the combination of high heat and a flavorful sauce. By cooking the chicken in a hot skillet, we get a nice brown crust on the outside, which adds texture and flavor to the dish. And by adding a tangy lemon sauce, we balance out the richness of the chicken and add a bright, citrusy note to the dish.

Another important factor is the use of aromatics like garlic and onion. These add a depth of flavor to the dish that complements the chicken and lemon perfectly. And by cooking them in the skillet before adding the chicken, we create a flavorful base that the chicken can cook in.

Finally, the resting time is crucial. By letting the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving, we allow the juices to redistribute and the meat to stay tender. This makes a big difference in the final texture and flavor of the dish.

Overall, this recipe works because it's a perfect balance of flavor, texture, and technique. By following these simple steps, you can create a delicious Chicken And Lemon Skillet that's sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delicious Chicken And Lemon Skillet, you'll need a few simple ingredients. The key players are chicken, lemon, garlic, and herbs, which combine to create a flavorful and aromatic dish. Be sure to choose fresh and high-quality ingredients to get the best results.

When shopping for chicken, look for boneless, skinless breasts or thighs. You can also use a combination of both for added flavor and texture. For the lemon, choose a fresh and juicy one that's heavy for its size. And don't forget to pick up some fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary, which add a fragrant and savory note to the dish.

1 lb (450g) chicken thighs, bonelessChoose fresh and high-quality chicken for the best results. You can also use chicken breasts or a combination of both.
2 tbsp olive oilUse a good-quality olive oil that's suitable for high-heat cooking.
3 cloves garlic, mincedMince the garlic finely to release its flavorful oils and aroma.
1 tsp dried thymeThyme adds a savory and slightly minty flavor to the dish. You can also use fresh thyme if available.
1 tsp dried rosemaryRosemary adds a piney and herbaceous flavor to the dish. Use fresh or dried rosemary, depending on what's available.
1/2 tsp saltUse kosher salt or sea salt for added flavor and texture.
1/4 tsp black pepperFreshly ground black pepper adds a nice kick to the dish.
2 tbsp lemon juiceUse fresh and juicy lemons for the best results. You can also add some grated lemon zest for extra flavor.
1 cup chicken brothUse low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt content of the dish.
1/4 cup white wine (optional)The white wine adds a rich and slightly sweet flavor to the dish. You can omit it if you prefer or substitute with more chicken broth.
2 tbsp butterUse high-quality butter that's suitable for cooking. You can also add some chopped fresh herbs to the butter for extra flavor.

Ingredients for Chicken And Lemon Skillet

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy skillet or wokSharp chef's knifeInstant-read thermometerCutting boardMeasuring cups and spoonsWooden spoon or spatula

How to Make Chicken And Lemon Skillet

1
Heat the olive oil in a large heavy skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant and lightly browned.
3
Add the chicken thighs to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, until browned and cooked through.
4
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest.
5
Add the thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
6
Add the lemon juice, chicken broth, and white wine (if using) to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
7
Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, until slightly reduced and thickened.
8
Add the butter to the skillet and stir until melted and smooth.
9
Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon some of the sauce over the top of each piece.
10
Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the chicken is coated in the sauce and heated through.
11
Check the internal temperature of the chicken with an instant-read thermometer, making sure it reaches 165 F (74 C).
12
Remove the skillet from the heat and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
13
Serve the chicken hot, spooning some of the sauce over the top of each piece.

Expert Tips

Use a large enough skillet to cook the chicken in a single layer, so it cooks evenly and quickly.
Don't overcrowd the skillet, as this can lower the temperature and affect the cooking time.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving, to allow the juices to redistribute and the meat to stay tender.
Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken, to ensure it's cooked to a safe temperature.
Add some chopped fresh herbs to the sauce for extra flavor and color.
Serve the chicken with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a green salad.
Make the recipe ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it for later use.
Use different types of citrus, such as lime or orange, for a unique flavor twist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not cooking the chicken to a safe internal temperature, which can lead to foodborne illness.
Overcrowding the skillet, which can lower the temperature and affect the cooking time.
Not letting the chicken rest before serving, which can make the meat tough and dry.
Using low-quality ingredients, which can affect the flavor and texture of the dish.
Not stirring the sauce regularly, which can cause it to stick to the bottom of the skillet.
Not seasoning the dish enough, which can make it taste bland and unappetizing.

Variations and Substitutions

Add some diced onions or bell peppers to the skillet with the garlic for extra flavor and nutrients.
Use different types of protein, such as shrimp or pork, for a unique twist on the recipe.
Add some chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, to the sauce for extra flavor and color.
Use different types of citrus, such as lime or orange, for a unique flavor twist.
Add some grated cheese, such as Parmesan or cheddar, to the sauce for extra richness and flavor.
Serve the chicken with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a green salad.
Make the recipe ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it for later use.

What to Serve With Chicken And Lemon Skillet

Serve the Chicken And Lemon Skillet hot, spooning some of the sauce over the top of each piece. You can serve it with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a green salad. Some other options include roasted asparagus, grilled bell peppers, or a side of quinoa or brown rice.

For a more substantial meal, you can add some crusty bread or a side of roasted sweet potatoes. And for a special occasion, you can add some grated cheese or a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs to the top of the chicken for extra flavor and presentation.

Roasted vegetablesMashed potatoesGreen saladGrilled asparagusRoasted sweet potatoesQuinoa or brown rice

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

This recipe can be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen for later use. To refrigerate, let the chicken cool to room temperature, then cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

To freeze, let the chicken cool to room temperature, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. When you're ready to serve, simply thaw the chicken overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it in the skillet or oven until heated through.

When reheating the chicken, make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165 F (74 C) to ensure food safety. You can reheat it in the skillet or oven, or even in the microwave if you're short on time. Just be sure to stir the sauce regularly and check the temperature frequently to avoid overcooking.

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can serve it for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or even a casual gathering with friends. And because it's made in one pan, cleanup is a breeze. So why not give it a try and see why it's become a staple in our household?

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?

You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, or a combination of both. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it for later use. Just be sure to reheat it to an internal temperature of 165 F (74 C) to ensure food safety.

What type of citrus can I use in this recipe?

You can use fresh lemons, limes, or oranges, depending on your personal preference. Just be sure to adjust the amount of juice based on the size and acidity of the citrus.

Can I add other ingredients to the sauce?

Yes, you can add other ingredients to the sauce, such as chopped onions or bell peppers, grated cheese, or chopped fresh herbs. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning and cooking time based on the added ingredients.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked to a safe temperature?

You can use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. The safe minimum internal temperature for cooked chicken is 165 F (74 C).

Can I serve this recipe with other sides?

Yes, you can serve this recipe with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a green salad. Just be sure to choose sides that complement the flavors and textures of the dish.

How do I store leftovers?

You can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Just be sure to reheat the chicken to an internal temperature of 165 F (74 C) to ensure food safety.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this recipe in a slow cooker. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and liquid levels based on the size and type of slow cooker you're using.

The Full Recipe

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