Skillet Lemon Chicken

Prep: 30 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

Juicy, tender chicken breasts coated with lemon and herbs, pan-fried to perfection with bright citrus flavors, ideal for a quick, flavorful main course.

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Ingredients

  • 1 medium lemon
  • 1 teaspoon parsley flakes
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • all-purpose flour
  • 4 large skinless, boneless chicken-breast halves (about 1 1/2 lb.)
  • 1 tablespoon salad oil
  • 2/3 cup chicken broth
  • lemon slices and parsley sprigs (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. About 30 minutes before serving, grate 1/2 teaspoon of lemon peel and squeeze 1 tablespoon of lemon juice.
  2. On a sheet of waxed paper, mix the grated lemon peel, parsley flakes, salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of flour.
  3. Use the mixture to coat the chicken breast halves.

Tips & Substitutions

For an extra burst of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the lemon juice and some garlic for an hour before coating. If you don't have parsley flakes, fresh parsley works well too. You can also substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter option. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Skillet Lemon Chicken with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a light meal. It pairs beautifully with Katie'S Favorite Broccoli Soup for a comforting dinner. For a heartier option, consider serving it over rice or alongside roasted potatoes to soak up the delicious lemony sauce.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Skillet Lemon Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist. Cover and heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Skillet Lemon Chicken contains roughly 65 calories, with 2g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value) and iron (20% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 869mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).

65 kcal 3% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.9g 4% DV
Total Fat 1.4g 2% DV
Carbs 12.9g 5% DV
Fiber 0.9g 3% DV
Sugar 0.9g 2% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 869.4mg 38% DV
Potassium 372.9mg 8% DV
Cholesterol 2mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 4.3mcg
Vitamin C 21.7mg 24% DV
Calcium 34.1mg 3% DV
Iron 3.5mg 20% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Bone-in pieces will take longer to cook through, so ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. You may need to cover the skillet while cooking to help retain moisture.

What can I substitute for chicken broth?

If you don't have chicken broth, vegetable broth is a great substitute, providing a lighter flavor. Alternatively, you can make your own broth from scraps and seasonings, or simply use water with a bit of salt and lemon juice for added flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Skillet Lemon Chicken is perfect for meal prep. Simply cook the chicken as directed, let it cool, and portion it into meal prep containers. Pair with your choice of sides for a quick and healthy lunch throughout the week.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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