Get ready to take your dinner game to the next level with this scrumptious One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken and Asparagus! Juicy chicken breasts seared to golden perfection, paired with tender asparagus and tossed in a zesty lemon garlic sauce. It’s simple, fresh, and absolutely tantalizing—a perfect weeknight dinner that’ll impress everyone at your table!
Budget Information
This delightful recipe comes together at around $12 total, making it about $3 per serving. With fresh ingredients and no complicated steps, you’ll find it easy to whip up without breaking the bank!
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe is a win-win, hitting all the right notes for flavor and convenience. Cooking everything in one pan means less cleanup, and let’s be real, who doesn’t love that? Plus, the bright notes from the lemon and garlic elevate simple chicken and asparagus, ensuring each bite feels like a mini-vacation. It’s an effortless way to serve up tasty nutrition without compromising on taste!
Ingredients + Optional Substitutions
Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts ($8.00)
- 1 bunch of asparagus ($3.00)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil ($0.50)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced ($0.50)
- Juice of 1 lemon ($0.75)
- 1 teaspoon paprika ($0.25, can substitute with chili powder for more heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste ($0.05)
These ingredients are fresh, minimal, and easy to tweak based on what you have on hand. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could swap in green beans for the asparagus or toss in some cherry tomatoes for an extra flavor explosion!
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) while you prepare the chicken and veggies. This way, everything will sizzle together nicely once you’re ready to cook.
Step 2: Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel and season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and paprika. This will give your chicken a fantastic depth of flavor once seared. Let them sit and soak in the good vibes for a few minutes.
Step 3: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot and shimmering, gently add the chicken. Sear each breast for about 5-7 minutes on one side until you get that delicious golden-brown crust. Flip them over delicately and sear for another 3-4 minutes. The goal? A beautifully caramelized exterior!
Step 4: While the chicken is doing its thing, trim the woody ends off the asparagus. Once the chicken is beautifully seared, use the same skillet to slide the asparagus next to the chicken. Pour the lemon juice and the remaining olive oil over the entire dish, then add in the minced garlic. Don’t rush this part; drizzle lovingly for that extra zing!
Step 5: Pop the entire skillet (yes, the whole thing) into the preheated oven. Roast for about 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the asparagus is tender yet vibrant. The flavors meld together in the oven, creating a mouthwatering aroma that’s bound to make your stomach growl!
Step 6: Once done, remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices in the chicken to redistribute, making the meat juicy and delightful. Serve it up, and get ready to bask in the loving praise of your diners!
Nutritional Facts
For each serving, you can expect approximately:
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you happen to have leftovers (though I doubt it, this is delicious!), store the chicken and asparagus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave for a minute or two until warmed through. For a stove-top option, you can heat it in a skillet over medium heat, ensuring that the chicken retains its juicy goodness.
Serving Suggestions
This dish shines on its own, but you can pair it with a light salad for added crunch or some fluffy quinoa to soak up all the flavorful juices. A generous sprinkle of fresh parsley or a squeeze of extra lemon over the top adds a lovely finishing touch, brightening up the whole meal!
Reader Tips or Helpful Notes
Feeling adventurous? Don’t be shy—experiment with herbs! Dill or thyme can add a fragrant twist to the dish. If you prep ahead, the chicken can marinate in the olive oil and garlic overnight, making it even more flavorful when you’re ready to cook. Also, remember that the cooking time can vary based on the thickness of your chicken breasts, so keep an eye on it!
Recipe FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time since thighs may take longer to reach the perfect internal temperature.
What can I substitute for asparagus? Feel free to swap it out for green beans, broccoli, or even bell peppers; just adjust the cooking time accordingly!
Is this dish gluten-free? Yes, it is! All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for anyone avoiding gluten.
Can I make this in advance? While best served fresh, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time and assemble when you’re ready. Just remember the chicken will be juicier if cooked right before serving!
What’s the best way to ensure my chicken stays juicy? Make sure not to overcook your chicken—using an instant-read thermometer is a great way to ensure it’s cooked to perfection!
