Lemon Butter Chicken: A Quick and Flavorful Dish for Any Occasion

This Lemon Butter Chicken is a tender, juicy, and aromatic dish that combines golden, pan-seared chicken breasts with a rich and creamy lemon butter sauce. Infused with garlic, fresh herbs, and a hint of zest, this recipe is as easy to prepare as it is delicious. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or an elegant dinner option, this one-pan wonder is sure to impress. Serve it alongside rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables for a satisfying and comforting experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy and Flavorful Sauce: The buttery sauce is infused with bright lemon notes, creating a perfect balance of richness and tanginess.
• Quick and Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish is ready in under 30 minutes.
• One-Pan Recipe: Fewer dishes to clean up means more time to enjoy your meal.
• Juicy and Tender Chicken: Pan-searing ensures the chicken has a crispy exterior while staying moist and flavorful inside.
• Versatile Pairings: Customize the dish with your favorite sides for a complete and balanced meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for creamier sauce)
• Juice of 2 lemons (about ¼ cup)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps achieve a golden crust during searing. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle a teaspoon of paprika over the chicken. Paprika adds a subtle smokiness and enhances the dish’s color.

2. Sear the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the chicken breasts. Sear them for 5–6 minutes on each side, or until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Overcooking can dry out the chicken, so monitor the temperature closely. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.

3. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Allow it to melt completely, then stir in the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute, just until fragrant—be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can ruin the dish’s flavor.

Next, pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These bits, known as fond, are packed with flavor and will enrich the sauce. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and dried thyme. Simmer the mixture for 3–5 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly and thicken. If you’re using Parmesan cheese, stir it in at this stage to create a creamier texture.

For an even richer sauce, consider adding ½ cup of heavy cream. Heavy cream not only thickens the sauce but also adds a luxurious mouthfeel. Let the sauce simmer for another 2 minutes to meld the flavors.

4. Return the Chicken to the Pan

Place the seared chicken back into the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Spoon the sauce generously over the chicken to coat it evenly. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse and the chicken to heat through.

5. Garnish and Serve

Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley and a few slices of lemon for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the Lemon Butter Chicken alongside your choice of sides, such as steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.

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Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Lemon Herb Chicken: Add fresh rosemary or basil for an herbal twist.
• Spicy Version: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
• Garlic Lover’s Delight: Double the garlic and stir in extra Parmesan for a decadent, cheesy sauce.
• Low-Carb Option: Skip the Parmesan and heavy cream, and use coconut milk for a keto-friendly alternative.
• Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for thighs to enjoy juicier, more flavorful meat.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in 30-second intervals. Add a splash of chicken broth if the sauce becomes too thick.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use bottled lemon juice?
A: While fresh lemon juice provides the best flavor, bottled juice can be used in a pinch. Use half the amount since bottled juice is more concentrated.

Q: What’s the best pan for making Lemon Butter Chicken?
A: A large cast-iron skillet or stainless-steel pan is ideal for even searing and heat retention.

Q: Can I make this dish dairy-free?
A: Yes! Substitute dairy-free butter and replace heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a creamy texture.

Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of pan-searing?
A: Absolutely! Bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, then pour the sauce over the baked chicken before serving.

Q: What sides pair well with Lemon Butter Chicken?
A: Rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a green salad are all excellent choices.

Q: Can I use bone-in chicken?
A: Yes, but adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Q: Why is my sauce too thin?
A: Simmer the sauce longer to reduce it, or mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the sauce to thicken it.

Q: Can I meal prep this dish?
A: Yes, Lemon Butter Chicken reheats well and can be stored in meal prep containers for up to 3 days.

Q: How do I keep chicken breasts from drying out?
A: Avoid overcooking and use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches exactly 165°F (75°C).

Q: Is this dish gluten-free?
A: Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check store-bought broth and cheese for hidden gluten.

Conclusion

This Lemon Butter Chicken is a quick, flavorful, and versatile dish that works for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions. With its creamy, zesty sauce and perfectly cooked chicken, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Serve it with your favorite sides, and you’ll have a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with bright, refreshing flavors.