Imagine a dinner that's not just delicious, but also fits perfectly into your low-carb lifestyle - this One Pan Skillet Lemon Chicken is your ultimate culinary game-changer! In just 30 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-worthy meal that's so simple, even novice cooks can master it. Packed with zesty lemon, tender chicken, and bursting with flavor, this recipe will become your new go-to weeknight dinner that's both healthy and incredibly satisfying.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Keto
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a better sear and prevents steaming.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until the oil is shimmering and hot.
- Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into the hot skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes on the first side without moving, allowing a golden-brown crust to form.
- Flip the chicken breasts and reduce heat to medium. Cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Add minced garlic to the pan during the last minute of cooking, stirring quickly to prevent burning.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken breasts, allowing the juice to create a light sauce in the pan.
- Remove chicken from the skillet and let rest for 3-4 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
- Optional: Tilt the pan and spoon the pan juices over the chicken for extra flavor and moisture.
Tips
- Pat the chicken breasts completely dry before seasoning to ensure a gorgeous golden-brown crust
- Use a meat thermometer to guarantee perfectly cooked chicken - aim for 165°F internal temperature
- Don't move the chicken while searing to develop a beautiful caramelized exterior
- Let the chicken rest after cooking to keep the meat juicy and tender
- Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest, most vibrant flavor
- Choose a heavy-bottomed skillet like cast iron for even heat distribution
- Adjust heat if garlic starts to burn - medium heat is key when adding garlic
- Spoon pan juices over chicken for extra moisture and flavor just before serving
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 110mg
