Lemon Chicken Recipe (with Lemon Butter Sauce)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that combines tender, juicy chicken with a rich, tangy, and buttery lemon sauce. The bright citrus flavor paired with the smoothness of the butter makes this recipe perfect for a quick dinner or an elegant meal. Whether served with rice, pasta, or veggies, this dish is sure to impress with its bold flavors and simple preparation.

Ingredients

this Recipe

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

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning (optional)

For the Lemon Butter Sauce:

• 1/4 cup butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1/2 cup chicken broth or white wine
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional for sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

For the Chicken:

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme (if using) on both sides.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate to rest.

For the Lemon Butter Sauce:

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
2. Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth (or white wine) to the skillet, scraping up any brown bits left in the pan for extra flavor. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 3-4 minutes, until slightly reduced.
3. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add honey or maple syrup and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the top. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors.

To Serve:

1. Plate the chicken and drizzle the lemon butter sauce over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
2. Serve with your choice of side, such as roasted vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Total time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables: Toss in some spinach, asparagus, or zucchini to cook in the sauce for a complete one-pan meal.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a touch of heat.
• Use chicken thighs: For a juicier, more flavorful option, substitute chicken thighs for the breasts.
• Herb variation: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil to customize the flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if necessary.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just be sure to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Simply heat it up before serving.

Can I use a different protein?
Yes, this sauce would work beautifully with chicken thighs, pork chops, or even fish fillets like salmon.

Can I make the sauce creamier?
Yes, you can add a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese to the sauce for a richer, creamier texture.

Conclusion

Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce is a quick, delicious, and flavorful dish that is both simple and elegant. The bright lemony flavors combined with the richness of the butter make it a perfect dinner choice for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight meal or serving it for a special gathering, this recipe will quickly become a favorite!

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