This Lemon Asparagus Chicken dish is light and refreshing! It features tender chicken cooked with crisp asparagus and a zesty lemon sauce that brings everything together.
Every bite feels like springtime on a plate! 🐔🌱 I love how quick it is to make, perfect for busy nights when I still want something tasty and healthy.
Pair it with rice or a salad, and you’ve got a delightful meal ready in no time. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for this simple, bright dish!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs provide great flavor and moisture. If you prefer a leaner cut, chicken breasts work too, but they may be less juicy. Boneless thighs can also be used for quicker cooking.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is ideal for this dish. If it’s out of season, you can substitute with green beans or broccoli for a similar crunch. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly!
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for a rich taste. If you need a different oil, avocado oil or sunflower oil can also work well. Just avoid using oils with strong flavors that might overpower the dish.
Chicken Broth: This adds flavor and moisture. If you’re out, feel free to use vegetable broth or even water in a pinch. White wine is a tasty alternative for depth if you prefer it.
How Do You Get the Chicken Skin Extra Crispy?
Getting that crispy skin is key to this recipe! Start by preheating your skillet before adding the chicken. Here’s how:
- Pat the chicken dry to remove moisture, ensuring it crisps up nicely.
- Heat the skillet until it’s hot, then add olive oil—this helps achieve a great sear.
- Cook skin-side down without moving it too soon; letting it sit for those first few minutes lets the skin become golden and crispy.
- After flipping, keep the heat steady to cook the chicken through.
With these tips, you’re on your way to some wonderfully crispy chicken that pairs perfectly with the asparagus and lemon!
How to Make Lemon Asparagus Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in and skin-on)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- 1 lemon (sliced)
For the Asparagus:
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or white wine)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes for preparation and around 25-30 minutes for cooking. Total time is about 40 minutes, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner that feels special!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Meanwhile, take your chicken thighs and season them on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme. This will give them lots of flavor!
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When the skillet is hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken thighs skin side down. Sear them for about 5-6 minutes, or until the skin turns golden brown and crispy. Then, flip the chicken and sear for another 3-4 minutes on the other side. This step really locks in the flavor!
3. Cook the Asparagus:
Once the chicken is nice and brown, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. In the same skillet, add the trimmed asparagus and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until you can smell the garlic and the asparagus starts to brighten in color.
4. Combine and Bake:
Pour the chicken broth (or white wine if you’re feeling fancy) into the skillet and give everything a gentle stir. Now, place the chicken thighs on top of the asparagus and layer lemon slices over the chicken. This will give a fresh and zesty flavor to the dish!
5. Finish in the Oven:
Carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Your kitchen will start to smell amazing!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When the chicken is ready, take the skillet out of the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes. If you like, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve your Lemon Asparagus Chicken warm and enjoy every bite!
Happy cooking! Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Absolutely! You can substitute boneless chicken thighs for the bone-in variety. Just reduce the baking time to about 15-20 minutes, checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for doneness.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Asparagus?
No problem! You can use frozen asparagus instead. Just add it straight to the skillet with the garlic and sauté a bit longer until heated through. Alternatively, you can swap in another vegetable like broccoli or green beans for a different twist!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or oven to maintain the chicken’s tenderness and the asparagus’s crunch.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes. Just be sure to sauté them briefly with the garlic before adding the broth or wine, so they soften slightly without overcooking.
