This tender and juicy Lemon Butter Chicken is smothered in a rich, creamy lemon butter sauce infused with garlic and fresh herbs. Perfect for weeknight dinners or elegant entertaining!
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C). Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add butter. Melt the butter, then stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and thyme. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly reduced.
If using, stir in Parmesan cheese and heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer for another 2 minutes to thicken.
Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the top. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to heat through.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite sides like pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables.