Chicken and Asparagus Skillet Dinner
This Chicken and Asparagus Skillet Dinner is a fast, healthy one-pan meal made with juicy chicken, tender-crisp asparagus, and bright lemon-garlic flavor. Ready in about 25 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something wholesome, flavorful, and easy with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
- For the Skillet
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into even pieces
- 1 lb fresh asparagus trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil divided
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Flavor Boost
- 1 lemon zested and juiced
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard optional
- Red pepper flakes to taste (optional)
Instructions
- Pat chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken in a single layer and cook 4–5 minutes per side, until golden and nearly cooked through.
- Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Add remaining olive oil to the skillet, then add asparagus.
- Cook asparagus for 3–4 minutes, until bright green and tender-crisp.
- Add garlic and cook 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Return chicken to the skillet.
- Add lemon juice, lemon zest, and Dijon (if using).
- Toss everything together and cook 2–3 minutes, until chicken is fully cooked.
- Remove from heat and let rest 2–3 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Cut chicken evenly to ensure consistent cooking.
- Add asparagus after chicken to prevent overcooking.
- Finish with extra lemon juice or cracked black pepper for brightness.