Garlic Lemon Chicken in a Cast Iron Skillet

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Additional Time: 5 minutes (resting)

Total Time: 35 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 1.5 lbs)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Steps to Cook:

1. Prepare the Chicken: a. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season them evenly on both sides with salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.

2. Heat the Cast Iron Skillet: a. Place a 12-inch cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and let it heat up for 2-3 minutes. b. Add the olive oil to the hot skillet and swirl to coat the bottom.

3. Sear the Chicken: a. Carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts to the hot skillet. b. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until a golden-brown crust forms. c. Transfer the seared chicken to a plate and set aside.

4. Make the Sauce: a. Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the skillet. b. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently, until fragrant. c. Carefully pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. d. Stir in the lemon juice and let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly reduced.

5. Finish the Dish: a. Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. b. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the chicken cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. c. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes.

6. Serve and Enjoy: a. Transfer the chicken breasts to a serving plate. b. Spoon the sauce from the skillet over the chicken. c. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. d. Serve the chicken immediately, accompanied by your choice of sides.

Cook’s Note:

• For best results, use a well-seasoned cast iron skillet. This will help create a beautiful sear on the chicken.
• Adjust the cooking time as needed, depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts. Thicker breasts may require a few extra minutes in the skillet.
• If the sauce seems too thin, you can thicken it by stirring in a small amount of cornstarch or flour mixed with water.
• This recipe can be easily doubled or tripled to serve a larger group.

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