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Easy One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken and Asparagus

lemon garlic chicken and asparagus - featured image

This healthy, flavorful dinner features juicy chicken thighs and crisp-tender asparagus roasted together in a zesty lemon garlic marinade. Ready in 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 large garlic cloves, minced (about 2 teaspoons)
  • 1 large lemon, juiced and zested (about 3 tablespoons juice + 1 tablespoon zest)
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 bunch asparagus (about 1 lb), trimmed
  • Pinch salt and pepper (for asparagus)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
  • Extra lemon wedges (optional garnish)
  • Grated parmesan cheese (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides with 1 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice and zest, honey, oregano, and paprika.
  4. Place chicken in the bowl and coat well with marinade. Let sit for at least 10 minutes (or up to 1 hour in the fridge).
  5. Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Once shimmering, add chicken thighs skin-side down. Sear for 3-4 minutes until golden and crisp.
  6. Flip chicken thighs and pour remaining marinade into the pan. Arrange trimmed asparagus around the chicken. Drizzle asparagus with 1 tablespoon olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper.
  7. Roast in oven for 18-22 minutes, until chicken reaches 165°F and asparagus is tender but still bright green.
  8. Remove skillet from oven and let chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  9. Garnish with chopped parsley, extra lemon wedges, and parmesan if desired. Serve straight from the pan or plate individually.

Notes

For dairy-free, skip the parmesan garnish. You can substitute chicken breasts for thighs (reduce roasting time to 15-18 minutes). Swap asparagus for green beans, broccoli, or zucchini as desired. Marinate chicken up to 24 hours ahead for deeper flavor. If asparagus cooks too quickly, remove early and tent with foil.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon garlic chicken, one-pan dinner, healthy chicken recipe, asparagus, easy weeknight meal, gluten-free, meal prep, skillet chicken, quick dinner