Healthy Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet

Name: Healthy Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 4 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; Juice and zest of 2 lemons; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup green beans, trimmed; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Light & Fresh Table

I’m excited to share my take on a deliciously light yet flavorful dish that has quickly become a family favorite—Healthy Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet. I love how the bright acidity of the lemon perfectly complements the savory garlic, making each bite unbelievably tasty. Preparing this dish in one skillet not only speeds up the cooking process, but it also means less cleanup for me, which is always a win! This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something nutritious without sacrificing flavor.

Created by

Adele Summers

Last updated on 2026-02-23T22:13:36.317Z

When I first experimented with this Healthy Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet, I wasn’t sure if such a simple dish could be bursting with flavor. What I found is that letting the chicken marinate in lemon juice for even just 15 minutes makes a world of difference in taste and tenderness. The garlic adds a warm depth that perfectly ties everything together.

This recipe also showcases how a handful of fresh herbs can elevate the meal. Adding parsley at the end not only brightens the plate visually but adds a fresh flavor that complements the lemon and garlic beautifully. It’s amazing what a few ingredients can do!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright, zesty flavors brighten up your dinner plate
One-pan cooking means less mess and easy cleanup
Packed with protein and veggies for a balanced meal

Marination Mastery

Marinating the chicken is a crucial step in achieving maximum flavor. The olive oil helps to coat the chicken, while the lemon juice tenderizes the meat and adds a bright acidity that enhances the overall dish. I recommend allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes, but if you have the time, extending this to an hour will intensify the flavors even further. For a zesty kick, consider adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the marinade.

Always make sure the chicken is evenly coated in the marinade. If you're short on time, you can even place the chicken and marinade in a resealable plastic bag for a quick and easy prep. Just gently massage the chicken through the bag to ensure the marinade is well-distributed. This technique not only infuses flavor but also helps to keep the chicken moist during cooking.

Culinary Techniques

Searing the chicken is essential for developing a flavorful crust. Heat your skillet over medium heat until it's hot but not smoking; this typically takes about 3-4 minutes. You should hear a satisfying sizzle when the chicken hits the pan. Look for a golden-brown color on each side, which should take about 6-7 minutes. This technique traps the juices inside the chicken, ensuring a juicy and tender outcome.

When you add the vegetables, be sure to stir gently to combine without breaking up the chicken. Cooking the cherry tomatoes and green beans for an additional 5 minutes allows them to soften and release their juices, which creates a lovely sauce that complements the chicken. The bright colors of the veggies not only enhance aesthetics but also contribute valuable nutrients, making this dish visually appealing and nutritious.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for a delightful meal:

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
Juice and zest of 2 lemons
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup green beans, trimmed
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have everything on hand for the best experience!

Instructions

Follow these straightforward steps to create your skillet dinner:

Marinate the chicken

In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Sear the chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and golden brown.

Add vegetables

Once the chicken is cooked, add the cherry tomatoes and green beans to the skillet. Toss everything together and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Garnish and serve

Remove the skillet from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately for a delicious and healthy dinner.

Enjoy your delightful Healthy Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the skillet while cooking the vegetables. It will enhance the dish wonderfully.

Leftover Storage

If you have leftovers, this dish stores beautifully in the refrigerator. Place any uneaten chicken and vegetables in an airtight container, and it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. This makes it a wonderful option for meal prep. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, ensuring you do not dry out the chicken.

For longer storage, consider freezing the prepared chicken and vegetables in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned earlier. The lemon and garlic flavors tend to develop even further, making the leftovers just as tasty as the freshly made dish.

Serving Suggestions

This Healthy Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. I often serve it over a bed of quinoa or brown rice, which soak up the extra juices. Alternatively, serve it alongside a fresh green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to enhance the dish's brightness and add crunch.

For a Mediterranean twist, consider adding olives or feta cheese as a topping before serving. The saltiness of the feta and the brininess of the olives can elevate the overall flavor profile, making it an exciting addition to your dinner table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute asparagus or bell peppers based on your preferences.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken the night before for deeper flavor, just cook it when ready to serve.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten intolerance.