Healthy Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet

Name: Healthy Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Juice of 2 lemons; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Highlighted under: Mindful Meal Ideas

I absolutely love whipping up this Healthy Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet when I'm looking for a quick and flavorful meal. The bright, zesty flavors infuse the chicken beautifully, creating a dish that's perfect for any night of the week. With the combination of fresh garlic and tangy lemon, it’s not just healthy but also incredibly satisfying. Plus, it's a one-pan recipe, which means easy cleanup! I often pair it with seasonal vegetables for added nutrition and color.

Created by

Nora Ellis

Last updated on 2026-02-23T21:36:48.416Z

In my quest for a healthy yet delicious meal, I stumbled upon this vibrant Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet recipe. The secret lies in the simple marinade that includes fresh lemon juice and minced garlic, which complement the chicken's flavor perfectly. I've found that letting the chicken marinate for just 15 minutes really amplifies the taste, so don’t skip that step!

Cooking everything in one skillet not only saves on dirty dishes but also allows the chicken to absorb the flavors of the vegetables cooked alongside it. Whether serving it over rice, quinoa, or just enjoying it as is, this dish is a go-to for any weeknight dinner.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright, zesty flavors that elevate your meal
Healthy and nutritious, perfect for weeknight dinners
Simple preparation with easy cleanup

The Importance of Marinating

Marinating the chicken is a crucial step in this recipe, as it allows the flavors of lemon and garlic to permeate the meat, enhancing its juiciness and taste. I recommend marinating for at least 15 minutes, but if you have more time, letting it sit for up to an hour in the refrigerator can deepen the flavors even further. The acidity in the lemon juice also tenderizes the chicken, ensuring it remains moist during cooking.

Make sure the chicken breasts are coated evenly with the marinade. A good tip is to use a resealable plastic bag for marinating; it allows for better coverage as you can massage the marinade into the chicken, ensuring every bite is flavorful. Be cautious not to marinate too long, as the acid can break down the meat excessively, resulting in a mushy texture.

Cooking the Chicken to Perfection

When cooking the chicken, aim for a medium heat to ensure it cooks thoroughly without burning. An important visual cue is to look for a golden brown crust, which typically develops after about 6-7 minutes per side. You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Allowing the chicken to rest briefly after cooking helps redistribute the juices, keeping it succulent.

If you notice any sticking while cooking, a small addition of olive oil to the skillet can help create a non-stick layer. Alternatively, if you're using a non-stick skillet, this can reduce the amount of oil needed. Don't skip letting the cooked chicken rest for a few minutes; it makes a significant difference in texture and moisture retention.

Perfect Pairings and Leftovers

This Lemon Garlic Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it over a bed of quinoa or brown rice to add heartiness. If you prefer a vegetable focus, a refreshing side salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette can complement the dish's zesty notes perfectly. Alternatively, flatbreads can be a great choice to pair with this flavor profile.

For leftovers, store any uneaten chicken and vegetables in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid drying it out. If you want to freeze, ensure that the chicken is cooled completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It can be reheated from frozen or thawed overnight in the fridge for best results.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Juice of 2 lemons
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Vegetables

1 cup broccoli florets
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Combine all ingredients before cooking.

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a bit of olive oil. Once hot, add the marinated chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, until fully cooked and golden brown.

Add Vegetables

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet. In the same skillet, add the broccoli, bell pepper, and cherry tomatoes. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning and cook for 5-7 minutes until tender.

Combine and Serve

Return the chicken to the skillet, ensuring everything is well mixed. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to warm through. Serve hot, drizzled with any remaining lemon juice.

Enjoy your healthy meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving. This adds freshness and an extra layer of taste.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

If you have dietary restrictions or ingredient preferences, several substitutions can be made. For a gluten-free version, ensure your Italian seasoning is certified gluten-free and serve it with gluten-free grains like cauliflower rice. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with tofu or chickpeas, adjusting cooking times accordingly to ensure they're well-cooked.

Feel free to experiment with the vegetables used in this skillet. Seasonal veggies such as zucchini, asparagus, or snap peas can be substituted based on what you have on hand or what's fresh at the market. Each combination brings a unique taste and color to the dish, keeping it exciting every time you make it.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable for larger gatherings or meal prepping for the week ahead. Simply multiply the number of chicken breasts and vegetables accordingly, keeping the marinade ratios consistent. If your skillet isn’t large enough, consider cooking in batches to keep the chicken evenly cooked and avoid overcrowding, which can prevent the meat from searing properly.

If cooking for a crowd, you might want to double the marinade and let the chicken soak longer to maximize flavor. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly, so always check the chicken’s temperature with a meat thermometer for safety. Having a large sheet pan can also help if you're roasting the vegetables in the oven while the chicken cooks.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal experience, consider garnishing your Healthy Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet with fresh herbs like parsley or basil just before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish's freshness. A sprinkle of feta cheese can offer a delightful salty contrast that elevates the overall flavor profile.

Additionally, you might serve this dish with a side of tzatziki or yogurt dipping sauce, especially if you opt for flatbreads. This creamy element balances the zest of the lemon and the heat from the garlic, creating a well-rounded dish that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and can add more flavor due to their higher fat content.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken the night before to save time on cooking day.

→ What sides go well with this dish?

This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad.