Lemon Herb Chicken Skillet Juicy and Flavorful Meal

Looking for a quick, tasty dinner? You've come to the right place! This Lemon Herb Chicken Skillet is juicy, flavorful, and easy to make. You’ll learn how to season chicken, cook it to perfection, and whip up a zesty lemon-herb sauce. Whether you’re a busy parent or a cooking novice, I’ll guide you step by step. Let’s get cooking and impress everyone at the table!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)

- 1 teaspoon dried oregano

- 1 teaspoon dried thyme

- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For this Lemon Herb Chicken Skillet, start with four boneless, skinless chicken breasts. These cuts are great because they cook quickly and stay juicy. Use two tablespoons of olive oil and two tablespoons of unsalted butter to add richness and flavor.

Next, grab three cloves of garlic and mince them finely. Garlic adds a delicious aroma and taste. For a bright twist, use one lemon. You will need both the zest and juice. The zest adds a lovely citrus flavor, while the juice gives a tangy kick.

For seasoning, use one teaspoon of dried oregano and one teaspoon of dried thyme. These herbs bring a warm, earthy taste. If you like a little heat, add half a teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Adjust salt and pepper to your liking for the perfect balance.

Finally, you will need one cup of low-sodium chicken broth. This keeps the dish moist and adds depth to the sauce. A sprinkle of fresh parsley at the end adds a pop of color and freshness.

These ingredients come together to create a juicy and flavorful meal that you will love. Each component plays a role in making the chicken tender and packed with taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

Seasoning the chicken Start by seasoning your chicken breasts. Use salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes if you like some heat. Rub the seasoning on both sides. Make sure every piece is covered well. This step builds a solid flavor base.

Cooking the chicken in the skillet Next, heat a large skillet. Add olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Wait until the butter melts and bubbles. Place the seasoned chicken in the skillet. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes on each side. Look for a nice golden brown color. The chicken should be cooked through. Once done, take the chicken out and set it aside.

Preparing the lemon-herb sauce In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds. Be careful not to let it burn. Next, pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Scrape the bottom of the skillet to get all those tasty bits. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Now, return the chicken to the skillet. Spoon the sauce over the chicken. Let it simmer for an additional 3 to 5 minutes. This helps the flavors blend and the sauce thicken. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. Before serving, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a nice touch.

Tips & Tricks

Best Practices for Cooking Chicken

Achieving perfect browning To get that nice brown color, heat your skillet well. Use a mix of olive oil and butter. This combo gives flavor and helps with browning. Make sure not to crowd the pan. Cook in batches if needed.

Keeping the chicken juicy Start with chicken at room temperature. This helps it cook evenly. Season well before cooking. When you remove the chicken, let it rest for a few minutes. This keeps the juices inside.

Flavor enhancement techniques Use fresh garlic and lemon juice for the best taste. The zest adds brightness. You can also add herbs like thyme and oregano. If you want some heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes. These small tweaks make a big difference in flavor.

Variations

Ingredient Substitutions

You can switch up the chicken. Try turkey or tofu for a tasty twist. If you want a veggie option, use thick slices of eggplant or zucchini. These will soak up the flavors well.

For herbs, feel free to mix it up. Basil and rosemary add a fresh taste. You can also use fresh herbs instead of dried ones. Just remember, fresh herbs are stronger, so use less.

If you follow a special diet, this dish can fit your needs. For gluten-free, use a gluten-free broth. You can also skip the butter and use olive oil instead. This keeps it dairy-free too.

Each change brings new flavors. Play around and find what you love most!

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Lemon Herb Chicken Skillet fresh, follow these steps:

- Best practices for refrigeration: Let the chicken cool to room temp. Place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge. It should last for about 3-4 days. Make sure to label the container with the date for easy reference.

- Freezing tips for chicken: If you want to freeze the chicken, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place it in a freezer bag or container. This can keep it fresh for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight.

- Reheating methods: To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist. You can also use the microwave. Heat on medium power, checking every minute. Make sure the chicken reaches 165°F before serving. Enjoy your tasty leftovers!

FAQs

Common Questions About Lemon Herb Chicken Skillet

Can I use skin-on chicken? Yes, you can use skin-on chicken. It will add a nice crispness. Just adjust the cooking time. Skin-on chicken may take a bit longer to cook through.

How to know if the chicken is fully cooked? You can check if the chicken is cooked by cutting it open. The meat should be white and the juices should run clear. The best way is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part. It should read 165°F (75°C).

Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Cook the chicken and sauce, then let it cool. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

This blog post covered how to make a tasty lemon herb chicken skillet. We discussed the right ingredients, from juicy chicken and seasonings to a flavorful sauce. You learned the steps to prepare and cook it perfectly. I shared tips to keep your chicken juicy and enhance its taste. You also found ideas for variations and important storage info. In closing, with the right techniques and flavors, this dish can be a hit at your table. Enjoy cooking and experimenting with your own twists!