Lemon Chicken With Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe

There's nothing quite like the bright, tangy flavor of Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce to perk up a weeknight meal. Juicy chicken breasts are pan-seared to golden perfection and then draped in a luscious, buttery lemon sauce that tastes like sunshine on a plate.

this Recipe

The first time I made this, I was desperate for a dinner that felt elegant yet required minimal effort. It has since become my go-to for impressing guests or turning a regular evening into something memorable. With just a handful of simple ingredients, this dish proves that sophistication can indeed come from simplicity.

Why You'll Love This Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce

Get ready to fall in love with your next go-to dinner. This Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce is the perfect marriage of simplicity and elegance, ideal for both busy weeknights and special occasions.

First off, this recipe is quick and easy to make. In just 30 minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on the table, making it a lifesaver on days when time is short but flavor still matters.

The vibrant, zesty flavors are an instant crowd-pleaser. The fresh lemon juice not only elevates the chicken but also balances the richness of the butter sauce beautifully. Even picky eaters won’t be able to resist the bright, refreshing taste.

You'll also love how versatile this dish is. Pair it with pasta, rice, or a simple salad for a complete meal. You can even change up the herbs to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

Finally, it’s a budget-friendly recipe that doesn’t skimp on taste. With easily available ingredients like chicken, butter, and lemon, you can create something that feels fancy without overspending.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce lies in its fresh and flavorful ingredients. Each one contributes to a dish that is both simple and full of vibrant flavor.

Chicken Breasts are the star of this recipe. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cook up beautifully, especially when pounded to an even thickness. This ensures they cook evenly and stay juicy. You could also use chicken thighs for a richer flavor, but they may take a bit longer to cook.

Fresh Lemons are crucial. You'll need both the juice and zest to capture that true lemony flavor. While bottled lemon juice works in a pinch, nothing beats the aroma and taste of fresh lemons.

Unsalted Butter is used to make the sauce silky and rich. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish. If you only have salted butter, just adjust the salt in the recipe accordingly.

Chicken Broth adds depth to the sauce. It complements the lemon without overpowering it. For an even more flavorful sauce, you can use a homemade chicken stock or low-sodium broth.

Fresh Garlic provides a savory kick that pairs well with the lemon and butter. Be sure to mince it finely so it blends seamlessly into the sauce. If you're a garlic lover, feel free to add an extra clove!

For this recipe, you’ll also need a heavy skillet for searing the chicken and a whisk for emulsifying the sauce. A good zester for the lemons is also handy.

How To Make This Lemon Chicken With Lemon Butter Sauce

Creating this dish is easier than you might think, and it comes together with just a few straightforward steps. Let’s break it down.

Start by preparing your chicken breasts. If they are thick, slice them horizontally or pound them to an even thickness of about ½ inch. This ensures quick and even cooking. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.

Next, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil and let it get nice and hot. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know they’re done when an internal thermometer reads 165°F. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

In the same skillet, add a bit more butter along with the minced garlic. Let the garlic cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Then, pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for a minute, scraping up any delicious brown bits from the bottom of the pan.

Now, it’s time for the lemon. Add the juice and zest of a lemon to the skillet, stirring well. Reduce the heat to low and whisk in the remaining butter piece by piece. The sauce will emulsify and thicken slightly, becoming smooth and glossy. If the sauce feels too thick, you can thin it out with a bit more chicken broth.

Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the top. Let it simmer for an additional minute to soak up all the flavors. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley and lemon slices.

Storage Options

Leftovers of this Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce store beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or a next-day lunch.

For refrigeration, place the cooled chicken and sauce in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the sauce from separating.

You can also freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Place the chicken in a freezer-safe container and pour the sauce over it. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Note that the sauce may separate slightly after freezing, but a good whisk will help bring it back together.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile and easy to customize based on what you have on hand or your dietary needs.

For a creamy twist, add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce. It will give the dish a luxurious feel, perfect for a special occasion. Just be sure to adjust the seasonings accordingly.

If you're a fan of herbs, try adding fresh thyme or rosemary to the sauce. These herbs complement the lemon flavor wonderfully. Basil or dill also make excellent alternatives for a more summery vibe.

Want to add a touch of heat? Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes when you add the garlic. The subtle spiciness will balance the tangy and buttery elements of the sauce.

You can easily make this dish gluten-free by dredging the chicken in cornstarch instead of flour before searing. This not only keeps the chicken juicy but also gives it a light, crispy exterior.

Feel free to experiment and make this Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce your own. After all, the best recipes are the ones that inspire a bit of creativity! Enjoy!

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