Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet is a simple, bright, and tasty dish that brings together juicy chicken breasts, fresh garlic, and zesty lemon in one pan. The chicken gets a lovely golden crust while soaking up all the flavors from the garlic and lemon juice, making every bite juicy and full of life.
I love how quick and easy this recipe is—just a few ingredients, a skillet, and you’re set for a delicious meal. I often add some fresh herbs like parsley for a little extra color and freshness. The lemon really wakes up the flavor and gives the dish a nice tang that never gets old, especially when you’re craving something fresh but comforting.
My favorite way to serve this chicken is right out of the skillet with a side of steamed veggies or a fluffy bed of rice to catch all the tasty sauce. It’s one of those meals that feels special but comes together fast, perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners with friends and family. I think once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless are best for quick cooking and easy eating. You can swap them for thighs if you want juicier, more flavorful meat—just cook a bit longer.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the sauce a bright and punchy flavor. If you’re in a hurry, garlic powder works but use less—around 1/2 teaspoon.
Lemon: Fresh lemon slices and juice brighten the dish. Bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch, but fresh really lifts the flavor.
Heavy cream: This makes the sauce rich and smooth. For a lighter sauce, try half-and-half or coconut milk, but the texture will be thinner.
Chicken broth: Adds depth to the sauce. Vegetable broth works fine if you want a lighter or vegetarian option.
How Can I Get Perfectly Golden and Juicy Chicken Breasts?
Getting a golden crust while keeping chicken juicy is key. Here’s how I do it:
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to help it brown better.
- Season well on both sides before cooking for full flavor.
- Heat the oil in the skillet until shimmering but not smoking.
- Cook chicken undisturbed for 5-7 minutes per side over medium-high heat. Don’t move it around too much.
- Check doneness by slicing into the thickest part – juices should run clear.
Rest the chicken for a few minutes after cooking before serving to keep it juicy and tender.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – I recommend using a skillet big enough to fit the chicken comfortably to brown evenly.
- Cooking tongs or a spatula – for flipping the chicken easily without tearing it.
- Measuring spoons and cups – to measure the broth, cream, and lemon juice precisely.
- Knife and cutting board – for slicing lemons and chopping parsley.
- Lemon squeezer (optional) – makes extracting juice quick and mess-free.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Herb twist: Add fresh thyme or basil instead of parsley for a different herb aroma.
- Protein swap: Use turkey cutlets or pork chops in place of chicken for variety.
- Cheese boost: Top with grated Parmesan or mozzarella after cooking for extra richness.
- Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for heat.
How to Make Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
For The Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced (plus juice of half a lemon)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook. So in roughly 30 minutes, you can have a delicious, lemony, garlicky chicken skillet meal on the table. Quick and easy for any weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season and Sear the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. When done, take the chicken out and set it aside on a plate.
2. Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté it for about 30 seconds until you can smell the lovely garlic aroma. Pour in the chicken broth and use your spoon to scrape the bottom of the skillet gently; this helps loosen any tasty browned bits. Stir in the heavy cream and the juice of half a lemon, mixing everything well to build your sauce.
3. Simmer Chicken in Sauce:
Put the chicken breasts back into the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Arrange the thin lemon slices over and around the chicken. Add the butter on top, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let everything simmer gently for about 5 minutes. This gives the flavors time to come together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
4. Finish and Serve:
Turn off the heat. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over your chicken and lemon slices for a pop of color and freshness. Serve your lemon garlic chicken hot, spooning some of that creamy sauce over the top. It goes wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed veggies.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the chicken breasts in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Cooking frozen chicken directly can lead to uneven cooking and longer cook times.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream with Something Lighter?
Absolutely! You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce. Just keep in mind the sauce may be less rich and slightly thinner.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to avoid drying out the chicken.
What Should I Serve with Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet?
This dish pairs beautifully with fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables, which soak up the delicious lemon garlic sauce perfectly.