20 Minute Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about a skillet full of sizzling, golden-crispy chicken infused with bright lemon and punchy garlic. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or need something impressive for guests without the fuss, this 20-minute crispy lemon garlic chicken is a total lifesaver.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• ✅ Fast & easy – Ready in 20 minutes with minimal prep.

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• ✅ Crispy texture – Thanks to a quick sear and simple dredge.

• ✅ Packed with flavor – Bright lemon, savory garlic, and juicy chicken.

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• ✅ Versatile – Works with chicken thighs or breasts, and pairs with so many sides.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s walk through the method step-by-step to get that perfect crisp and flavor:

1. Prep the Chicken

• Pound to even thickness (optional): If you’re using chicken breasts, lightly pound them to even thickness to ensure even cooking.

• Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.

• Mix flour coating: In a shallow bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, paprika, and a bit of salt. Dredge the chicken in the mixture, pressing lightly so it adheres well.

2. Sear Until Golden & Crispy

• Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil (or a mix of oil and butter).

• Once hot and shimmering, add the chicken. Cook undisturbed for 4–5 minutes on one side until golden and crispy.

• Flip and cook for another 4–5 minutes on the other side until the chicken is fully cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F/74°C).

• Remove the chicken and set aside on a plate — keep warm.

3. Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce

• Lower the heat to medium. In the same pan, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds — just until fragrant.

• Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan — that’s flavor!

• Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.

• Whisk in the butter until melted and the sauce becomes glossy and slightly thickened.

4. Combine & Serve

• Return the chicken to the pan. Spoon the sauce over the top and let it simmer for 1 minute so the flavors meld.

• Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon juice if desired.

Serving Suggestions

This chicken is incredibly versatile. Here are some perfect pairings:

• 🥔 Mashed potatoes or creamy polenta to soak up the sauce.

• 🥦 Steamed broccoli, asparagus, or sautéed spinach for a healthy side.

• 🍝 Pasta tossed with a little olive oil and Parmesan.

• 🍚 Rice or couscous for a quick and hearty base.

Tips for Success

• Pat the chicken dry before seasoning — this helps it sear better.

• Don’t crowd the pan! If necessary, cook the chicken in batches to keep the temperature high and maintain crispiness.

• Fresh lemon is key. Bottled lemon juice won’t give you that same bright, zesty flavor.

• Use a cast iron or heavy-bottomed skillet for best results — it retains heat and gives you an amazing sear.

Make It Your Own: Variations & Additions

Add Cream:

Turn it into a creamy lemon garlic chicken by adding 1/4 cup of heavy cream after the broth for a richer sauce.

Spice It Up:

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a little heat.

Herb Swap:

Instead of parsley, try fresh thyme, rosemary, or basil.

Protein Options:

Substitute chicken with turkey cutlets, pork chops, or even tofu for a vegetarian spin.

How to Store & Reheat

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Store the sauce separately if possible.

• Reheat: Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or in the microwave with a cover to retain moisture.

Nutrition (per serving)

Here’s an approximate nutrition breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 410

• Protein: 28g

• Fat: 22g

• Carbs: 18g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 1g

• Sodium: 370mg

Note: These values may vary based on ingredients and portion size.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cook time. Bone-in thighs may take 10–12 minutes per side depending on thickness.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be! Just substitute the flour with your favorite gluten-free blend or almond flour.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes. The chicken can be seared and stored in the fridge for up to a day. Reheat in the sauce before serving.

Can I bake instead of pan-fry?

You can bake the dredged chicken at 425°F (220°C) for about 20 minutes, then make the sauce separately. It won’t be as crispy, but still delicious.

Final Thoughts

This 20-minute crispy lemon garlic chicken is a flavor-packed favorite that’s fast enough for weeknights but delicious enough for guests. The crisp exterior, juicy interior, and zingy lemon garlic sauce create a perfectly balanced dish every single time.