Quick and Tasty Chicken Dish

Quick and Delicious One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken

There’s something incredibly comforting about a meal that comes together in one pan, especially after a long day. This One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken is a family favorite that’s not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor. With years of cooking experience, I can confidently say this dish never ceases to impress both family and friends alike.

Why Make This Recipe

1. Flavorful & Succulent: The combination of lemon, garlic, and herbs infuses the chicken with a bright, zesty flavor that’s refreshing and satisfying.
2. Quick Preparation: With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a cook time of 20 minutes, you can have dinner on the table in less than half an hour.
3. Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables, this dish offers a balanced meal that caters to a variety of diets.
4. Minimal Cleanup: Cooking in one pan means less mess and fewer dishes to wash, perfect for busy weeknights.
5. Versatile Cooking: This recipe works well for both casual dinners and dinner parties, making it a go-to recipe for various occasions. Personally, I love how it impresses guests while being so simple!

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Cooking Method: Sautéing and baking

This recipe employs the technique of sautéing the chicken first to develop a golden crust, followed by baking to ensure it cooks through.

My Experience Making This Recipe

When I first made this One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken, I struggled a bit with getting the chicken perfectly golden without overcooking it. I learned that a good sear is key, and flipping the chicken just once really helps maintain moisture. Now, it’s a foolproof dish in my rotation!

How to Make One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken

This recipe begins with seasoning chicken breasts and cooking them in a hot, oiled pan until they’re golden brown. Then, you’ll sauté garlic and your choice of vegetables, followed by adding chicken broth and lemon juice to create a savory sauce. Finally, everything bakes together, locking in the flavor and creating a beautiful dish.

Expert Tips for Success

1. Choosing Chicken: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for quicker cooking and a more tender bite.
2. Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and lemon for a brightness that powdered or bottled versions can’t replicate.
3. Searing Technique: Let the chicken sear undisturbed for a few minutes before flipping. This ensures a nice caramelization.
4. Vegetable Variations: Feel free to experiment with seasonal vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers that can roast well in the pan.
5. Temperature Control: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to be perfectly safe.

How to Serve One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken

Serve this dish alongside a simple green salad or over a bed of fluffy rice to soak up all that delicious lemon-garlic sauce. For special occasions, add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. This dish is also great for meal prepping; pack it up with some quinoa for a week’s worth of healthy lunches!

Storage and Reheating Guide

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a suitable container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in a pan over medium heat until heated through, or use a microwave at 50% power to avoid drying out the chicken.

Recipe Variations

1. Gluten-Free: Ensure the broth is gluten-free; this recipe is naturally gluten-free as is.
2. Dairy-Free: The dish is already dairy-free, but you can serve it with a side of dairy-free mashed potatoes for extra comfort.
3. Herb Variations: Substitute fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
4. Add Spice: For a kick, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when cooking the chicken.

Nutritional Highlights

This One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken is a great source of protein, with approximately 30 grams per serving. The inclusion of vegetables adds fiber, making it a heart-healthy choice. It’s low in carbohydrates and can easily fit various dietary preferences.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

1. Dry Chicken: Avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer; take the chicken off heat as soon as it’s at 165°F.
2. Sauce Too Thin: If the sauce doesn’t thicken, let it simmer on the stove for a few extra minutes to reduce.
3. Burning Garlic: If you notice the garlic turning brown too quickly, lower the heat. Garlic can burn and turn bitter, so add it in after the chicken has released some juices.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use bone-in chicken?
   Yes, but bone-in pieces will take longer to cook, so adjust the baking time and ensure the internal temperature is safe.

2. What vegetables can I use?
   Broccoli, zucchini, green beans, or carrots are all excellent choices that will cook well with the chicken.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   You can prepare the chicken and vegetables in advance, but it’s best to cook it fresh for quality.

4. What can I substitute for chicken broth?
   Vegetable broth or even water with a splash of soy sauce can serve as a suitable substitute for added flavor.

With this One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken recipe, you’ll have a quick and delicious meal that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Happy cooking!

Quick and Delicious One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken

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A family favorite, this One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken is quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, perfect for busy weeknights.

• Total Time: 30
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

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• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Your choice of vegetables (e.g., asparagus, bell peppers)

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Instructions

1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat and add chicken, cooking until golden brown on both sides.
3. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
4. Add chicken broth and lemon juice to the pan.
5. Add vegetables and stir to combine.
6. Bake in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes until chicken is cooked through.

Notes

Serve alongside a simple green salad or over a bed of rice. Great for meal prep.

• Author: nevaeh-hall
• Prep Time: 10
• Cook Time: 20
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Sautéing and Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 75mg