Easy Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet Dinner

Bright, zesty, weeknight-ready

This easy lemon garlic chicken skillet dinner is the kind of recipe busy nights were made for. Juicy chicken breasts soak up a bold lemon garlic marinade, then cook quickly in one pan for a meal that feels fresh, comforting, and satisfying. With simple pantry staples and minimal prep, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, healthy meal prep, or when you want something impressive without the effort. The lemon adds brightness, the garlic brings warmth, and the skillet method keeps cleanup fast. If you’re looking for a quick chicken dinner that’s flavorful, wholesome, and family-approved, this recipe checks every box.

Time Breakdown

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Marinate Time: 30 minutes (optional but recommended)
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Total Time: 48 minutes
• Servings: 6

Ingredients List

For the Lemon Garlic Marinade

• 2 lemons (zested and juiced)
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 5 large garlic cloves, crushed or minced
• 1½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• ¼ cup chopped Italian parsley, plus more for garnish

For the Chicken

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 4 large)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (for cooking)

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Citrus zester or grater
• Measuring cups & spoons
• Mixing bowl
• Tongs or spatula

Step-by-Step Beginner-Friendly Instructions

1. Prepare the marinade.
   Zest both lemons, then juice them into a medium bowl. Add olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and chopped parsley. Whisk until well combined.
2. Season the chicken.
   Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with salt and black pepper.
3. Marinate.
   Place chicken in the bowl with the marinade. Turn to coat well. Let marinate for 20 minutes for best flavor (or cook immediately if short on time).
4. Heat the skillet.
   Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and let it shimmer.
5. Cook the chicken.
   Add chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for 6–7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Internal temperature should reach 165°F.
6. Finish and garnish.
   Spoon extra pan juices over the chicken. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley. The sauce should look glossy and lightly thickened.

Pro Tips

• Juicier chicken: Pound thick chicken breasts slightly for even cooking.
• Meal prep friendly: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Flavor boost: Add sliced lemon rounds to the skillet during cooking for extra brightness.
• Serving ideas: Serve over rice, quinoa, pasta, or with roasted vegetables.

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