If you’re looking for a simple yet stunning dish that delivers incredible flavor without requiring hours in the kitchen, you’ve got to try Ina Garten’s Skillet Roasted Lemon Chicken. This recipe has become a fan favorite for three good reasons: it’s incredibly easy to make, it creates its own savory lemon-onion sauce while cooking, and it’s perfect for casual dining. You can serve it straight out of the skillet at your buffet table, and guests will keep coming back for more.
Let’s dive into why this dish works so well, how to prepare it, and the simple ingredients you’ll need to whip up this delicious meal.
The Joy of Making Skillet Roasted Lemon Chicken
Making this dish is a fantastic experience from start to finish. As you brush the aromatic herb oil over the butterflied chicken and layer it over onions, lemons, and garlic, the scent immediately begins to tantalize your senses. While it roasts, the kitchen fills with mouthwatering aromas, and you know you’re creating something special.
What I love most is that this dish practically cooks itself. All you need to do is assemble the ingredients, pop it in the oven, and pour in a bit of wine partway through the roasting process. The result? A perfectly browned chicken with tender, juicy meat and a vibrant sauce that brings every bite to life.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Effortless Preparation: The recipe is straightforward, even for beginner cooks.
- Delicious Sauce: The combination of lemons, onions, garlic, and white wine creates a sauce that’s bursting with bright, tangy flavors.
- One-Pan Wonder: It all comes together in a single skillet—minimal cleanup required!
- Perfect for Entertaining: You can prepare it in advance, refrigerate it, and simply pop it into the oven before dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need (US Measurements)
- 1 whole chicken, butterflied (about 4 pounds)
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced (rind included)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 sprig of fresh rosemary (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Herb Oil
In a small food processor, combine the fresh thyme, fennel seeds, kosher salt, and black pepper. Grind until the fennel seeds release their oils. Stir the mixture with 1/3 cup of olive oil to create a fragrant herb oil.
2. Assemble the Skillet
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Place the sliced onion evenly across the bottom of a large cast-iron skillet. Scatter the sliced garlic and lemon rounds over the onions.
3. Season the Chicken
Pat the butterflied chicken dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin. Place the chicken skin-side down on the onion mixture. Brush half of the herb oil over the chicken, ensuring even coverage. Flip the chicken over, skin-side up, and brush with the remaining herb oil.
4. Roast the Chicken
Place the skillet in the preheated oven and roast for 30 minutes. Then, carefully pour the white wine around the chicken (not directly on the skin) to maintain its crispness. Continue roasting for an additional 15 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown.
5. Add Finishing Touches
Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 15 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the chicken and sprinkle with freshly chopped rosemary for an extra layer of flavor.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Cut the chicken into quarters—no need for precise carving—and spoon the luscious lemon-onion sauce over the top. Serve directly from the skillet for a rustic, inviting presentation.
Serving Suggestions
This skillet-roasted lemon chicken pairs beautifully with simple sides like:
- Roasted Broccolini: Toss broccolini with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast at 425°F for 15 minutes.
- Couscous: Fluffy couscous soaks up the vibrant sauce from the chicken.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for mopping up every drop of that delicious sauce.
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about a dish that’s both easy to make and packed with flavor. Ina Garten’s Skillet Roasted Lemon Chicken is one of those recipes that you’ll return to time and time again. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting friends, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
Next time you’re looking for a stress-free yet elegant meal, remember this recipe. Trust me—it’s worth every bite.
For more incredible recipes like this, check out Ina Garten’s cookbook Cooking for Jeffrey or visit her website at barefootcontessa.com. Happy cooking!