Lemon Butter Chicken

Introduction

Lemon Butter Chicken is a comforting, flavor-packed dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich and tangy lemon-butter sauce. The savory butter balances beautifully with the fresh, zesty lemon, creating a dish that feels both indulgent and refreshing.

I first made this when I wanted something simple yet satisfying for dinner, and it quickly became a family favorite. The aroma of lemon and butter filling the kitchen is pure magic, making everyone eagerly anticipate the first bite. What’s great about this dish is its versatility—you can serve it with rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Another bonus? It all comes together in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight meal or looking to impress guests at a dinner party, Lemon Butter Chicken is always a winning choice!

Perfect for:

• Weeknight dinners
• Family gatherings
• Meal prepping
• Special occasions
• Lemon lovers

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Butter Chicken

Here’s why Lemon Butter Chicken will become your go-to dinner:

• Tender and Juicy Chicken: Pan-seared to golden perfection and simmered in a luscious sauce, the chicken stays moist and flavorful.
• Rich, Tangy Sauce: The buttery, lemon-infused sauce strikes a perfect balance between richness and brightness.
• One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes to wash! This recipe is cooked in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
• Quick and Easy: From prep to table in under 30 minutes.
• Customizable: Add veggies or swap herbs to make it your own.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 28g, Carbs: 6g, Fat: 28g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Lemon Butter Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 ½ pounds)
• ½ cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredient Highlights

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a lean protein that cook quickly and absorb the flavors of the sauce.
• Butter: Adds richness and a silky texture to the sauce.
• Fresh Lemon Juice and Zest: The star ingredients that give this dish its bright, tangy flavor.
• Garlic: Enhances the sauce with a savory depth.
• Chicken Broth: Helps build the sauce and keeps it light while complementing the lemon flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare and Cook the Chicken:

1. Season the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dredge them lightly in flour, shaking off the excess.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Sauté the minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
4. Add the Chicken Back: Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over it. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the chicken is warmed through.
5. Finish with Lemon Zest and Parsley: Sprinkle lemon zest and chopped parsley over the chicken. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary.

How to Serve Lemon Butter Chicken

Lemon Butter Chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with many sides:

• Over Rice or Pasta: The sauce is perfect for drizzling over rice or pasta.
• With Vegetables: Serve with roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus.
• With Crusty Bread: Use bread to soak up every last drop of the buttery lemon sauce.
• With Mashed Potatoes: The creamy potatoes balance the zesty sauce beautifully.
• Polenta – Serve over creamy polenta for a delicious twist, balancing the zesty chicken with a rich base.
• Cauliflower Rice – A low-carb option, serve the chicken over cauliflower rice.
• Crusty Bread – Serve with crusty bread on the side to soak up the rich lemon butter sauce.

Additional Tips for Lemon Butter Chicken

Here are some tips to make your Lemon Butter Chicken even better:

• Use Fresh Lemons – Freshly squeezed lemon juice gives the dish a brighter and more authentic flavor compared to bottled juice.
• Marinate for More Flavor – Marinate the chicken in lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking to enhance the flavor.
• Bone-In, Skin-On for Juicier Chicken – Bone-in chicken thighs or breasts stay juicier and develop a crispier skin when seared.
• Add a Splash of White Wine – Deglazing the pan with white wine adds depth and a touch of acidity that complements the lemon butter sauce.
• Don’t Skip the Searing – Sear the chicken until golden brown to lock in the juices and enhance the flavor.
• Adjust Butter for Richness – For a richer sauce, add an extra tablespoon of butter toward the end of cooking.
• Thicken the Sauce – If you want a thicker sauce, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the sauce while simmering.
• Herb It Up – Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley bring an earthy note that balances the citrusy flavor.
• Serve with the Right Sides – Pair the dish with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables to soak up the lemon butter sauce.
• Garnish for a Pop of Color – Add fresh parsley and lemon slices for a colorful and appetizing presentation.

Recipe Variations for Lemon Butter Chicken

Here are 10 ways to customize Lemon Butter Chicken:

• Creamy Lemon Butter Chicken: Add ¼ cup of heavy cream to the sauce for a creamy twist.
• Lemon Herb Chicken: Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or oregano for an herbaceous touch.
• Lemon Caper Chicken: Stir in capers for a briny flavor boost.
• Garlic Butter Chicken: Double the garlic for an extra savory kick.
• Lemon Spinach Chicken: Add a handful of fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Parmesan Lemon Chicken: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken before serving.
• Honey Lemon Chicken: Add a tablespoon of honey for a sweet-tangy balance.
• Lemon Mushroom Chicken: Sauté mushrooms before adding the garlic for a more earthy flavor.
• Spicy Lemon Chicken: Increase the red pepper flakes for a spicy version.
• Gluten-Free Lemon Chicken: Use gluten-free flour for dredging to make this dish gluten-free.

Freezing and Storage for Lemon Butter Chicken

• Freezing: Lemon Butter Chicken freezes well. Place the cooled chicken and sauce in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Special Equipment for Lemon Butter Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare Lemon Butter Chicken:

• Large Skillet: A heavy-bottomed skillet is ideal for searing the chicken and making the sauce.
• Zester: To zest the lemon easily.
• Tongs – For flipping the chicken without piercing the meat.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
• Cutting Board and Knife: For prepping the ingredients.
• Whisk: To blend the sauce ingredients smoothly.
• Cast-Iron Skillet – Ensures even heat distribution and adds a nice sear to the chicken.
• Zester or Microplane – For zesting fresh lemon to enhance flavor.
• Citrus Juicer – Helps extract fresh lemon juice with ease.
• Meat Thermometer – Ensures the chicken is cooked to the perfect internal temperature (165°F/74°C).
• Basting Brush – Useful for brushing lemon butter onto the chicken for extra flavor.
• Oven-Safe Dish – For finishing the chicken in the oven if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions for Lemon Butter Chicken

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
   Yes, chicken thighs are a great option. Adjust the cooking time as they may take a few extra minutes.
2. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
   Substitute a plant-based butter for a dairy-free version.
3. Can I add vegetables to the dish?
   Absolutely! Add spinach, mushrooms, or asparagus to make it more wholesome.
4. Can I make this ahead of time?
   Yes, you can cook the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Reheat it gently on the stovetop.
5. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
   Reheat on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the chicken from drying out.

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Conclusion

Crispy Lemon Butter Chicken is a simple yet elegant dish bursting with flavor. The zesty brightness of lemon pairs perfectly with the rich, velvety butter sauce, creating a delightful harmony in every bite. The crispy golden chicken adds just the right texture, making this dish as satisfying as it is delicious.

Perfect for both a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests, this versatile recipe is sure to become a favorite. Serve it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s guaranteed to please.

I’d love to see your Crispy Lemon Butter Chicken creations! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and tag me—I can’t wait to see your take on this delicious dish. Happy cooking!