This Lemon Chicken with Asparagus is a fresh and tasty dish that brings a burst of flavor. The juicy chicken pairs perfectly with crisp asparagus and a zesty lemon sauce!
Trust me, this dish is rainbow on your plate! 🍋🥦 I love it for quick dinners because it cooks up in no time. Serve it over rice or pasta for an extra yummy meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken is best for this dish. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs would work well too – they’re juicier! If you’re vegetarian, try using tofu or seitan as a protein alternative.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for flavor in this recipe. If you don’t have fresh, use 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder instead. If you’re a garlic lover like me, feel free to add an extra clove or two!
Lemon: The juice and slices add tanginess. If you have lime on hand, that’s a great substitute! Just keep in mind that lime will give it a different taste, but it’s equally refreshing.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus gives crunch and nutrition. If it’s out of season, you can swap it with green beans or snap peas for a similar freshness.
Herbs: Fresh thyme is lovely here. If you don’t have fresh, use half as much dried thyme. You could also experiment with rosemary or basil for a different herb profile.
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Cooking chicken until just right can be tricky, but with a few pointers, it’s easy! The goal is a golden brown crust and juicy interior.
- Start with room temperature chicken; it cooks more evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan – cook in batches if needed.
- Use a meat thermometer: chicken is done at 165°F (75°C).
- Let chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep the juices in.
What’s the Best Way to Sauté Garlic?
Sautéing garlic may seem easy, but it can burn quickly! Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat the skillet first; then add the oil to it. This prevents the garlic from burning.
- Add garlic and stir continuously for 30 seconds until fragrant. Watch closely – it can go from perfect to burned in an instant!
- If it burns, it can make your dish bitter, so start over if needed.
How to Make Lemon Chicken with Asparagus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced (plus juice from half a lemon)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
For the Asparagus:
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed
- Fresh dill or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, so you can have a delicious dinner ready in just about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts well with salt and pepper on both sides. This will enhance the flavor and give the chicken a tasty crust when cooked.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked all the way through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds or until it’s fragrant, but be careful not to burn it!
4. Create the Sauce:
Add the chicken broth, lemon juice, and thyme to the skillet. Bring everything to a simmer while scraping the browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Those bits add amazing flavor!
5. Thicken the Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium-low and toss in the butter and lemon slices. Let this mixture thicken slightly to create a delicious sauce.
6. Finish Cooking the Chicken:
Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon some sauce over the top, and let it cook for another 2 minutes to warm through and allow all the flavors to meld together nicely.
7. Prepare the Asparagus:
While your chicken is soaking in the sauce, steam or sauté the asparagus until it’s bright green and tender-crisp, about 3-5 minutes. Don’t forget to season it with a bit of salt and pepper!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate your chicken with the lemon slices and a good drizzle of sauce alongside the asparagus. Feel free to garnish with fresh dill or parsley if you like! Enjoy this fresh and zesty meal that’s sure to impress!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, frozen chicken can be used, but be sure to fully thaw it first! Thaw chicken in the refrigerator overnight or use the quick method of submerging it in cold water in a sealed plastic bag. Pat it dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Asparagus?
If asparagus isn’t available, you can easily substitute it with green beans or snap peas for a similar crunch and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, depending on the vegetable you choose.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep the chicken moist.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, and simply reheat it on the stove when you’re ready to serve. Just make sure to add fresh asparagus or a quick-cooking vegetable right before serving for the best texture.
