Lemon Shallot Chicken: Quick, Healthy One-Pan Delight

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Kacper Recipes Team

The first time I tried cooking with shallots, I was amazed by how they transformed a simple dish into something extraordinary. Imagine the blend of sweet and savory fragrances in your kitchen, setting the stage for a delightful dinner. That s the magic you ll experience with this Lemon Shallot Chicken. In just 30 minutes, juicy chicken breasts are enveloped in a tangy sauce that combines the bright notes of fresh lemon with the delicate sweetness of shallots.

As life gets busier, the allure of a quick, one-pan meal becomes essential, and this recipe is here to save the day. Whether you re winding down after a hectic day or prepping a dinner for friends, this dish is your go-to for a healthy yet indulgent treat at only 350 calories per serving! So grab your skillet, and let s turn those everyday ingredients into a feast that will leave everyone coming back for seconds.

Why is Lemon Shallot Chicken a Must-Try?

Quick Prep: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.

One-Pan Wonder: The beauty of this dish lies in using only one pan, which means less cleanup afterward a win for any home cook!

Bursting with Flavor: Enjoy a symphony of taste where zesty lemon brightens the dish, and shallots add the perfect sweet undertone.

Healthy Twist: At only 350 calories per serving, you ll indulge without the guilt.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a casual weeknight or a dinner party, this dish impresses and keeps everyone asking for your secret!

For a balanced meal, consider pairing it with seasonal vegetable sides or trying it with the delicious options from my other posts like the [Roasted Vegetable Medley].

Lemon Shallot Chicken Ingredients

Elevate your meal with these simple, fresh ingredients for a delightful dish!

For the Chicken
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts The star of this dish, ensures a juicy texture. Substitution: Bone-in chicken requires longer cooking time.
Olive Oil A heart-healthy fat perfect for searing; enhances the flavor base. No direct substitution recommended for flavor.

For the Sauce
Large Shallot, Finely Chopped Sweeter and milder than onions; adds aromatic depth. Substitution: Use onions if necessary, but shallots are recommended for taste.
Garlic, Minced Offers a pungent, savory flavor; complements shallots beautifully. No substitutions recommended as garlic is key for flavor.
Chicken Broth Used to deglaze the pan; adds a rich umami taste. Substitution: Vegetable broth for a lighter version or homemade broth for freshness.
Lemon Zest and Juice Provides bright acidity that elevates this Lemon Shallot Chicken s flavor profile. No substitutions; fresh lemons are ideal.
Dijon Mustard Adds a creamy tang and helps emulsify the sauce perfectly. Substitution: Yellow mustard or vinegar mixed with honey for tanginess.
Honey Balances the tartness of lemon; adds a gentle sweetness. Sugar can be substituted but will alter flavor profile.

Seasoning and Garnish
Salt and Pepper Essential for enhancing overall flavor; adjust to taste. Standard pantry staples.
Fresh Parsley, Chopped Garnishes the dish with color and freshness. Substitution: Other herbs like thyme or basil can be used.

How to Make Lemon Shallot Chicken

1. Season: Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the chicken breasts, ensuring they are evenly coated for maximum flavor.

2. Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the chicken and cook for 6 7 minutes on each side until golden brown, achieving an internal temperature of 165 °F. Remove the chicken and set aside.

3. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped shallots and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes until the shallots are translucent and fragrant.

4. Deglaze: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes to enhance the flavors.

5. Add Flavorings: Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and honey. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

6. Combine Chicken: Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over it. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes to warm the chicken through and let it absorb the sauce.

7. Garnish and Serve: Serve the chicken topped with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.

Optional: Serve with a side of roasted seasonal vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Lemon Shallot Chicken

• Check Temperature: Always ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 °F to avoid dryness and guarantee safety.

• Sauté Gently: Avoid browning the garlic. Sauté just until fragrant to prevent a bitter taste in your Lemon Shallot Chicken.

• Simmer Wisely: Let the sauce simmer gently. High heat can burn the sauce, robbing the dish of its beautiful flavors.

• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings as you cook. Balancing salt and pepper can make all the difference in enhancing the flavor of your chicken.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh lemon juice and shallots for the best flavor. Dried or bottled alternatives won t have the vibrant taste that elevates this dish.

Make Ahead Options

These Lemon Shallot Chicken are ideal for meal prep, streamlining your dinner plans! You can season and marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, you can prepare the shallot and garlic mixture and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days; just be sure to refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. When you re ready to enjoy this dish, simply cook the marinated chicken, sauté the prepared aromatics, and follow the final steps in the recipe. This way, you ll have a delightful, homemade meal with minimal effort at the end of a busy day!

Storage Tips for Lemon Shallot Chicken

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat to maintain moisture and tenderness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze chicken and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Ensure chicken is heated to an internal temperature of 165 °F when reheated to ensure safety and taste. Spoon extra sauce over the chicken for added flavor and moisture.

Room Temperature: Avoid leaving Lemon Shallot Chicken out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.

Lemon Shallot Chicken Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Lemon Shallot Chicken by trying some of these delightful twists!

• Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for firm tofu, marinated in lemon juice for extra flavor. This will create a dish that s just as satisfying and delicious.

• Capers Added: Stir in a tablespoon of capers into the sauce for a briny, piquant flavor that complements the lemon perfectly, adding a new dimension to the dish.

• Herb Medley: Change up the parsley garnish with fresh thyme or basil for a different aroma that brightens the overall profile and showcases your personal touch.

• Creamy Twist: For a richer sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream. This will lend a luxurious texture that beautifully pairs with the chicken.

• Add Spice: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a mild heat that balances the tartness of the lemon. Just a little kick can elevate your meal to new heights!

• Zesty Citrus: Experiment by using lime juice and zest instead of lemon for a refreshing twist, giving the dish a different but equally vibrant citrus flavor.

• Serve Over Grains: Instead of pairing with traditional sides, serve your Lemon Shallot Chicken over quinoa or couscous, soaking up the sauce while adding unique textures to the meal.

• Roasted Veggies: Add a mix of seasonal vegetables to the pan during the final simmer for a one-pan meal that s hearty and colorful, making dinner even more delightful.

What to Serve with Lemon Shallot Chicken?

Elevate your dinner experience by pairing this zesty chicken with complementary sides that enhance its delightful flavors.

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery richness balances the tanginess of the lemon sauce, creating a comforting contrast that warms the heart.
• Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables offer a slight sweetness and vibrant colors, making the plate visually appealing while adding healthy crunch.
• Couscous Salad: Fluffy couscous tossed with fresh herbs and lemon vinaigrette mirror the chicken s zesty notes and bring a refreshing touch to the meal.
• Garlic Bread: This warm, toasty side is perfect for soaking up every drop of that fragrant lemon shallot sauce. It s an indulgent partner!
• Lemon Rice: Bright lemon-flavored rice mirrors the chicken s flavors beautifully, adding a slight zest while keeping the meal cohesive and light.
• Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay paired with the dish enhances its flavors, offering a smooth, crisp accompaniment that elevates the dining experience.
• Arugula Salad: A light, peppery arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette adds freshness to your table, balancing the richness of the chicken.
• Honeydew Melon: For dessert, serve refreshing honeydew slices. This sweet fruit helps cleanse the palate after the savory chicken, making it an ideal light ending.

Lemon Shallot Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this Lemon Shallot Chicken, as they provide a juicy texture and cook evenly. If you prefer bone-in chicken, just be aware that it requires a longer cooking time, around 10 12 minutes on each side until the internal temperature reaches 165 °F.

How should I store leftover Lemon Shallot Chicken?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, be sure to do so gently on the stovetop over low heat to maintain the chicken s juiciness and the flavor of the sauce.

Can I freeze Lemon Shallot Chicken?
Absolutely! You can store both the chicken and sauce in separate freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month. When you re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 °F. To keep the chicken moist, drizzle some extra sauce over it while reheating.

What if I don t have shallots on hand?
If you find yourself without shallots, you can substitute them with an equal amount of finely chopped onions. While shallots are sweeter and milder, onions will still work in a pinch. You might want to sauté them a little longer to achieve that aromatic base.

Are there any dietary considerations for this dish?
Yes! This Lemon Shallot Chicken is naturally gluten-free. However, if anyone in your household has allergies, be cautious with the Dijon mustard as it can sometimes contain gluten or allergens. For a modification, opt for a gluten-free mustard instead. Always double-check labels if you have safety concerns.

How do I know if the chicken is cooked properly?
To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked and safe to eat, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165 °F in the thickest part. If you don t have a thermometer, the chicken should be opaque and the juices should run clear when pierced.