One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken and Asparagus Recipe

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe yields 4 servings. Ingredient amounts can be adjusted, but cooking steps remain the same.

• 6 skinless, boneless chicken thighs (about 2 pounds)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or your favorite herb blend)
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 pound asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic (or to taste)
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• 4 tablespoons cold unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley
• Optional: lemon slices for garnish

Directions

1. Pat the chicken thighs dry and trim off any excess fat. In a small bowl, mix Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this seasoning evenly over both sides of the chicken.
2. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and the oil is hot, place the chicken in a single layer. Cook for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and keep warm.
3. Pour the chicken broth into the same skillet, scraping up the browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a boil and cook until the liquid is reduced by half, approximately 3-5 minutes.
4. Add the asparagus to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until it turns bright green, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Stir in the minced garlic and lemon juice, cooking for an additional minute. Then, add the cold butter one tablespoon at a time, stirring quickly until each piece is melted before adding the next.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it among the asparagus and sauce. Sprinkle with parsley and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165F (74C).
7. Spoon the sauce over the chicken and garnish with lemon slices. Serve immediately and enjoy warm.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 661
• Fat: 47g (Saturated Fat: 18g)
• Cholesterol: 323mg
• Sodium: 713mg
• Carbohydrates: 8g (Dietary Fiber: 3g, Sugars: 2g)
• Protein: 56g
• Vitamin C: 21mg
• Calcium: 71mg
• Iron: 4mg
• Potassium: 896mg

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Nutrient data may vary based on ingredient availability. Consult your doctor or dietitian if following a medically restrictive diet.

The Story Behind One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken and Asparagus

The origins of lemon garlic chicken can be traced back to Mediterranean culinary traditions, where the use of citrus and garlic has been a staple for centuries. Combining tender chicken with fresh, seasonal vegetables, this one-pan recipe reflects a modern adaptation designed for efficiency without sacrificing flavor. Its development likely stems from home cooks seeking easy, flavorful dinners that require minimal cleanup while still delivering a restaurant-quality experience.

Regional Variations and Characteristics

While this recipe is considered American in contemporary cuisine, its roots echo European techniques, particularly from Italy and France, where pan-searing poultry and finishing it with a bright, lemony sauce is common. In Italy, similar recipes often use herbs like rosemary or thyme, while in French cuisine, a beurre blanc or light garlic butter sauce might accompany the chicken. In the U.S., asparagus is frequently paired with chicken for its quick cooking time and fresh, crisp texture, making it a perfect fit for one-pan meals.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

This dish is distinct from other chicken recipes due to its combination of a single skillet cooking method, lemon-garlic butter sauce, and inclusion of asparagus. Unlike classic roasted chicken, which typically requires separate preparation and longer cook times, or stir-fried chicken dishes that rely heavily on sauces and high heat, this recipe balances gentle searing, braising in chicken broth, and finishing with fresh herbs for a layered, yet simple flavor profile.

Typical Serving Occasions

One-pan lemon garlic chicken and asparagus is most commonly served as a weeknight dinner, family meal, or casual gathering dish. Its elegant presentation with vibrant green asparagus and lemon slices also makes it suitable for small dinner parties. Often accompanied by a light side such as rice, quinoa, or roasted potatoes, it provides a balanced plate of protein and vegetables with minimal fuss.

Interesting Facts

• The use of asparagus in this dish is seasonally significant, as it reaches peak flavor in spring and early summer, which aligns with Mediterranean traditions of cooking with fresh, local produce.
• Lemon juice not only enhances flavor but also tenderizes the chicken slightly, creating a succulent texture without the need for long marination.
• This recipe exemplifies the one-pan meal trend, popularized for its efficiency, simplicity, and minimal cleanup, which has become a hallmark of modern home cooking culture.
• Variations of this recipe often substitute asparagus with broccoli, green beans, or zucchini, showcasing its versatility while maintaining the signature lemon-garlic flavor.

Overall, One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken and Asparagus marries convenience with gourmet appeal, offering a dish that is quick to prepare yet rich in flavor and visually appealing. Its combination of historical inspiration, regional adaptability, and practical cooking technique has made it a beloved choice in contemporary kitchens worldwide.

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