Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Baked With Asparagus Recipe

Did you know that one-pan meals can save you up to 30 minutes on cleanup? The Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Baked With Asparagus is a perfect example of a quick and healthy option for busy nights. It combines tender chicken and fresh asparagus, all while delivering a burst of flavor from butter, garlic, and lemon. Curious about how to whip up this simple, yet delicious dish? Let’s get started with the recipe and tips.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

When you’re looking for a meal that combines quick preparation with delicious flavors, this Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken recipe is a fantastic choice. You’ll appreciate the short prep time of just 5-10 minutes and a cook time of around 20-25 minutes, totaling about 30 minutes to make. The one-pan method means less cleanup, making it perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. This dish features fresh, flavorful ingredients like lemon, garlic, and asparagus, offering a healthy balance of protein and veggies. Plus, it’s low in carbohydrates. Additionally, the recipe includes a delightful butter-garlic flavor profile, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. You can easily customize it by adding different vegetables or herbs, and it pairs well with pasta, rice, or quinoa, catering to your tastes and meal planning needs.

History

The history of Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken reveals how this dish evolved from ancient cooking practices to modern kitchens.

One-pan recipes have roots in ancient Egypt, developing over time for practicality and efficiency. European cuisines added their own twists, introducing a variety of herbs and techniques that shaped the flavors we enjoy today. Key ingredients like garlic and butter have been staples for centuries, while lemons were brought to Europe during the Roman Empire, enhancing freshness. As cooking methods evolved, so did the concept of quick meals, making one-pan dishes more accessible. Skinless boneless chicken breasts are now commonly used in this recipe, reflecting modern dietary preferences.

Today, Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and asparagus represent a modern adaptation of these traditional meals, reflecting both global influences and healthier cooking trends that suit busy lifestyles.

Recipe

Ingredients:
– Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– Asparagus
– Butter
– Lemon juice (from half a lemon)
– Italian seasoning
– Olive oil
– Garlic
– Salt and pepper
– Optional: hot sauce, paprika, parsley for garnish

Cooking Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 400-425 degrees Fahrenheit (or heat a skillet over medium heat). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it.
Season the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides. Set aside to let the seasoning absorb.
Trim and rinse the asparagus, then arrange it on the prepared baking sheet or in the skillet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
In a separate bowl, melt the butter and mix in minced garlic, lemon juice, and any optional ingredients like hot sauce or paprika. Stir well to combine. Heavy cream is a great addition if you want to create a rich, creamy sauce for the dish.
If using the oven, place the seasoned chicken breasts on the baking sheet with the asparagus. Pour the garlic butter sauce over both the chicken and asparagus. Bake for 20-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
If using a skillet, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the heated skillet. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes on each side until browned.
Add the asparagus and the garlic butter sauce to the skillet, cover, and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked.
Once cooked, remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices before serving.

For best results, make sure to keep an eye on the cooking times and temperatures, as they may vary depending on your equipment.

You can also enhance the dish by adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving or experimenting with different vegetables like zucchini. Enjoy the burst of flavors in this Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken dish!

Final Thoughts

Cooking can bring a sense of accomplishment and joy, especially when you create a delicious meal like Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken. This recipe not only highlights the rich flavors of butter, garlic, and lemon but also simplifies your cooking process.

You can choose between chicken thighs or breasts and pair them with fresh asparagus for a nutritious side. With prep times under 10 minutes and a total cooking time of about 30-40 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights. Additionally, this dish is a great source of vitamins and minerals, making it not only tasty but also healthy.

The one-pan method minimizes cleanup, making it even more appealing. Plus, the meal is high in protein and can be adapted for low-carb diets. Enjoy this delightful dish, knowing you’ve prepared a tasty and healthy option for yourself or your family.

FAQ

After enjoying the delicious Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken, you might’ve some questions about the recipe.

First, you can substitute chicken breasts with thin-sliced chicken or chicken tenders. If asparagus isn’t available, feel free to use zucchini or other vegetables.

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or 425°F (220°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This recipe is not only low carb but also naturally gluten free.

For easy cleanup, line your baking sheet with aluminum foil. Each serving contains about 160 calories and is low in carbs, making it a healthy option.

To enhance flavors, consider adding Parmesan cheese or red chili flakes.

Enjoy your meal, and don’t forget to serve leftovers with a new side!