Name: One Skillet Lemon Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 cup pearled farro (toasted, then rinsed); 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs; 1 teaspoon paprika (or to taste); 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste); ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste); 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided; or more if necessary); 1 large shallot (sliced thin; or sub with 1/3 cup finely diced white onion); 2 to 3 cloves garlic (finely minced); 2 ½ cups chicken broth ((I recommend reduced sodium)); 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (or to taste (grainy mustard may be substituted, do not use basic yellow mustard)); 1 zest of 1 medium lemon; 1 Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 to 3 tablespoons juice); 1 small bunch asparagus; ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (or more to taste if desired); Optional for garnishing: minced fresh parsley, extra grated Parmesan, lemon wedges

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The moment I think of cozy weeknight dinners, One Skillet Lemon Chicken jumps to mind. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a rainy evening, and I had just returned home from a long day. The smell of the chicken sizzling in the skillet mixed with the bright aroma of lemon was enough to lift my spirits instantly. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a reminder of simpler times when I could whip up something delicious without fussing over multiple pots and pans. Using just one skillet, this dish allows me to savor the flavors while spending quality time with loved ones.

With each bite, the tender chicken, aromatic garlic, and lively lemon juice create a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. The farro absorbs the broth and spices beautifully, making every mouthful a delight. This meal has become a staple in my household, perfect for busy evenings or entertaining guests. I love how versatile it can be, adapting to whatever seasonal vegetables are on hand. Join me on this culinary journey as we create the perfect comfort food!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
45 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
480 kcal

Protein:
37 g

Diet:
Keto

Fat:
18 g

Tools Used:
large skillet, digital thermometer

Why This One Skillet Lemon Chicken Shines

Quick and Easy Preparation

What I love most about One Skillet Lemon Chicken is how quick and easy it is to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and a single skillet, you can have a delicious, wholesome meal on the table in no time. The simplicity of the steps allows even novice cooks to shine in the kitchen.

Flavorful and Nutritious

This recipe is not only packed with flavor, but it’s also loaded with nutrition. The combination of chicken, asparagus, and farro provides a balanced meal rich in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. The sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese elevates the dish, adding a creamy texture that complements the zest of lemon.

Impressive Presentation

One skillet meals are not only practical but visually appealing as well. Serving One Skillet Lemon Chicken directly from the skillet adds a rustic charm to your dining experience. The vibrant green of the asparagus against the golden-brown chicken makes for an eye-catching display.

Customizable for Every Season

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. You can swap out the asparagus for seasonal vegetables like broccoli or snap peas depending on what you have available. This flexibility ensures that you can enjoy this dish all year round, making the most of what’s in season.

A One-Pan Wonder for Cleanup

Let’s face it: cleanup is often the least fun part of cooking. With One Skillet Lemon Chicken, you only have one pan to wash! This makes it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners when the last thing you want to do is tackle a mountain of dishes.

Family-Friendly and Kid-Approved

Finally, this dish is a hit with the whole family. The flavors are mild yet delicious, making it approachable for picky eaters. The combination of chicken, lemon, and farro creates a meal that kids not only eat but enjoy asking for seconds!

Main Ingredients for One Skillet Lemon Chicken

The ingredients for One Skillet Lemon Chicken are thoughtfully selected to create a harmonious blend of flavors. Each component plays a vital role in ensuring that every bite is fulfilling and rich in taste, making the dish not only delicious but also satisfying.

1 cup pearled farro: This nutty grain is the perfect base for your dish, adding texture and heartiness. It absorbs the flavors from the broth beautifully.
2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs: Tender and juicy, these are excellent for this dish as they stay moist throughout the cooking process.
1 teaspoon paprika: This spice adds warmth and color, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for bringing out the flavors in the dish.
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: A touch of pepper adds a subtle kick.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Used to sear the chicken and sauté the vegetables, adding richness to the dish.
1 large shallot: Adds a sweet, mild onion flavor that complements the other ingredients.
2 to 3 cloves garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the dish with its aromatic essence.
2 ½ cups chicken broth: The base for simmering the farro, adding depth and flavor to the dish.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: This brings a delightful tang that brightens the flavors.
Zest of 1 medium lemon: Citrus zest enhances the freshness of the dish.
Juice of 1 lemon: The acidity from the lemon juice brightens all the flavors.
1 small bunch asparagus: Fresh asparagus adds a pop of color and crispness to the dish.
¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: A final touch that adds creaminess and umami.
Optional for garnishing: minced fresh parsley, extra grated Parmesan, lemon wedges

Preparation Steps for One Skillet Lemon Chicken

Cooking One Skillet Lemon Chicken is a delightful experience. You’ll find that the steps are simple yet fulfilling, and soon you’ll have a delicious meal ready to share. Let’s dive into the preparation process.

Preheat your oven to 350°F. This will ensure that the cooking environment is ready for your dish when it’s time to transfer it. A properly preheated oven helps achieve even cooking.
In a large, oven-safe skillet, add the farro. Keep the skillet dry and toast the farro over medium heat for about 4 to 5 minutes. Stir constantly until the grains are lightly browned and fragrant. This toasting step enhances the nutty flavor and prevents the dish from becoming gummy. Once toasted, transfer the farro to a strainer, rinse, and set aside.
Season the chicken thighs evenly with paprika, salt, and pepper. Heated in the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken. Sear for about 4 minutes on each side until browned. At this point, the chicken does not need to be fully cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and the sliced shallot. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until softened, stirring frequently. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 to 60 seconds, ensuring it does not burn.
Stir in the rinsed farro. Add a splash of broth to deglaze the skillet, scraping up any browned bits that have stuck to the bottom. This step is crucial as it adds flavor to the dish. Also, stir in the Dijon mustard, lemon zest, and the remaining broth. Bring everything to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Nestle the seared chicken into the skillet.
Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake uncovered for 15 minutes. This allows the chicken to cook through and the flavors to meld. After 15 minutes, carefully remove from the oven, stir in the asparagus, and make sure the chicken pieces are on top of the dish. Bake for another 10 to 15 minutes. The farro should be tender, and the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Once done, remove the skillet from the oven and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and optionally garnish with fresh parsley or herbs like oregano or thyme. This final touch adds freshness and enhances the visual appeal.
Before serving, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. If using reduced sodium broth, you might want to add a bit more salt to bring out all the flavors. Serve warm and enjoy!

Things Worth Knowing

Toasting farro: Toasting enhances the nutty flavor of the farro. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference in the dish.
Cooking chicken: Searing the chicken first before baking ensures a nice crust and locks in moisture.
Deglazing the pan: Always scrape the bottom of the pan to incorporate the flavorful bits. This adds depth to your dish.
Resting time: Letting the dish rest for a few minutes after baking allows the farro to absorb excess liquid.

Pro Tips and Tweaks

To ensure your One Skillet Lemon Chicken turns out perfectly, here are some pro tips and tweaks that can enhance your cooking experience.

Storage: Leftovers can be stored airtight in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just reheat in the microwave when ready to enjoy!
Freezing: This dish freezes well! Store in an airtight container and it’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to replace the asparagus with seasonal veggies such as zucchini, spinach, or carrots for a different flavor profile.
Adding Heat: If you like a kick, add some red pepper flakes while sautéing the shallots and garlic.
Serving Suggestions: Pair with a fresh green salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.

Accompaniments for One Skillet Lemon Chicken

When serving One Skillet Lemon Chicken, consider these delightful accompaniments:

Fresh Salad: A crisp garden salad pairs wonderfully with this dish, adding a refreshing contrast.
Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices left in the skillet.
Wine Pairing: Though I won’t suggest any specific wines, consider a light white or a sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing drink.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to three months.
Occasion Suitability: This dish is perfect for a family dinner, a cozy night in, or even for entertaining guests on special occasions.

FAQ

Absolutely! While farro is a fantastic choice for its nutty flavor and chewy texture, you can substitute it with other grains like quinoa, brown rice, or even couscous. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, and you might need to adjust the amount of broth accordingly. Each grain brings its own unique flavor and texture, so feel free to experiment!

The best way to ensure that your chicken is fully cooked is by using a digital thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for safe consumption. Even if the chicken looks golden on the outside, checking the temperature is the most reliable way to confirm it’s cooked through. Make sure to check the thickest part of the thigh for accuracy!

Yes, you can prepare One Skillet Lemon Chicken ahead of time! You can cook the entire dish and store it in the fridge for up to 5 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it in the oven or microwave until warm. If you’re making it ahead, consider undercooking the chicken slightly before refrigeration, as it will continue to cook when reheated.

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables. The freshness of a salad balances the richness of the One Skillet Lemon Chicken. Additionally, serving it with crusty bread is a great way to soak up the delicious flavors from the skillet. For a heartier meal, consider adding a side of mashed potatoes or a grain salad!

Conclusion

One Skillet Lemon Chicken is a delightful dish that brings comfort and joy to your table, effortlessly combining flavors and textures in one pan. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for any night of the week and sure to impress your family and friends. Cooking should be a joyful experience, and this dish captures that sentiment beautifully. Enjoy!