One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken and Asparagus

This One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken and Asparagus recipe is a weeknight dinner hero! With minimal prep and easy cleanup, you’ll have a delicious and wholesome meal on the table in no time. The zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and tender asparagus make this dish a winner. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 6 skinless, boneless chicken thighs (about 2 pounds)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or any 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, ends trimmed, 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. Season and Brown the Chicken:
   • Pat the chicken thighs dry and trim any excess fat.
   • In a small bowl, combine Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
   • Season both sides of the chicken thighs with the herb mixture.
   • In a large nonstick skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
   • Brown the chicken on both sides (about 5 minutes per side) and remove to a plate. Keep warm.
2. Create a Flavorful Sauce:
   • Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits.
   • Bring the broth to a boil and reduce it in volume by half (3 to 5 minutes).
3. Add Asparagus and Lemon Garlic:
   • Add the asparagus to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until it turns a deep, bright green color (3 to 5 minutes).
   • Stir in the minced garlic and lemon juice for about 1 minute.
4. Finish with Butter and Chicken:
   • Add the cold unsalted butter to the skillet, one tablespoon at a time, stirring quickly until each pat is fully melted.
   • Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling the pieces down into the sauce and asparagus.
   • Sprinkle with minced parsley and cook until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) (2 to 3 minutes).
5. Serve Warm:
   • Spoon the sauce over the chicken thighs.
   • Garnish with lemon slices if desired.
   • Serve your One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken and Asparagus warm.

Cook’s Note

• Alternative Ingredients:
  • Feel free to use other herbs or herb blends that you enjoy.
  • Customize the dish by adding a splash of white wine or a dash of red pepper flakes for extra flavor.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 661
• Fat: 47g
• Carbs: 8g
• Protein: 56g

Enjoy this delightful one-pan meal with a side of crusty bread or a light salad!