If you love bright, fresh flavors paired with tender, juicy chicken, then this Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe is going to become your new go-to dinner. The vibrant tang of lemon perfectly balances the rich, silky butter sauce, creating an irresistible combination that’s both comforting and elegant. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family meal or a special occasion, this dish is surprisingly simple to make but delivers spectacular flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this recipe are straightforward and pantry-friendly, yet each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture. From the juicy chicken breasts to the fresh lemon zest and the aromatic garlic, these essentials come together beautifully to form a dish that’s as colorful as it is delicious.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Choose even-sized breasts for uniform cooking and juicy results.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple but important to bring out the natural flavors.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps achieve a golden, crispy sear on the chicken.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and depth to the sauce without overpowering the lemon.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Provides aromatic warmth and a savory backbone to the sauce.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Creates a flavorful base and keeps the sauce light.
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice: Gives the sauce its signature bright and zesty punch.
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest: Adds an extra layer of fresh citrus aroma and taste.
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (optional): Offers a subtle herbal note that complements the lemon beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and fresh herbaceous flavor to finish the dish.
How to Make Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Seasoning the Chicken
Start by generously seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This step is essential as it enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and ensures every bite is well-seasoned.
Step 2: Searing the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, cook the chicken breasts for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side. You want them to develop a beautiful golden crust while remaining juicy inside. Once cooked through, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside—you’ll bring it back to the pan soon.
Step 3: Building the Lemon Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. This step infuses the butter with that lovely garlic essence that pairs so well with lemon.
Step 4: Adding the Liquids and Lemon Zest
Pour in the chicken broth, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and sprinkle in the lemon zest. Use a spatula to scrape up all those flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan—this is where the magic happens and your sauce gets its irresistible depth.
Step 5: Reducing the Sauce
Let the sauce simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes so it reduces slightly and thickens a bit. The goal here is a silky, concentrated sauce without it becoming too heavy. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Step 6: Finishing the Dish
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon the sauce generously over each piece, and let everything simmer together for another 2 to 3 minutes. This allows the chicken to soak up the delicious flavors and ensures every bite is bursting with that lemony butter goodness.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finish by sprinkling fresh thyme and chopped parsley over the top for a fresh herbal aroma and a touch of vibrant green. Now your Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe is ready to impress!
How to Serve Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley is a classic choice for garnishing this dish because it adds both color and a hint of freshness. Also consider adding a few lemon slices or a sprinkle of extra lemon zest for an eye-catching presentation that reinforces the bright citrus theme.
Side Dishes
This lemony chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Think buttery mashed potatoes or fluffy rice to soak up the luscious sauce, or a crisp green salad and steamed vegetables to balance the meal. Roasted asparagus or green beans also make for excellent companions because they bring a pleasant crunch and counterbalance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a bit of flair, try serving the chicken over a bed of creamy polenta or alongside garlic-infused quinoa. You can also layer thin slices of lemon on top of each breast for a restaurant-quality look. A drizzle of extra sauce just before serving will make the dish shine both in flavor and presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them together helps the chicken stay moist and flavorful. Make sure to cool leftovers to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain quality.
Freezing
This Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe freezes well. Place portions in freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently to avoid drying out the chicken. The stovetop is ideal—warm the chicken in a skillet over low heat and spoon the sauce over as it warms. Microwaving works too, but do so in short bursts and cover the dish to retain moisture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Bone-in or boneless chicken thighs will add even more flavor and stay juicy. Just adjust cooking times slightly to ensure they’re cooked through.
Is fresh lemon juice necessary, or can I use bottled?
Fresh lemon juice gives the brightest, most vibrant flavor. Bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch, but it may lack the fresh zing and brightness you want in this sauce.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth. Always check labels to be sure!
How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer it a bit longer to reduce or add a small slurry of cornstarch mixed with cold water during the simmering step.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! It reheats beautifully and keeps well in the fridge or freezer, making it a fantastic option for prepping meals in advance.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe is truly a winner every time. It’s quick, satisfying, and full of fresh, bright flavors that turn simple ingredients into something special. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy the perfect harmony of tangy lemon and silky butter that makes this dish so memorable. Once you do, it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Print
Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A bright and flavorful Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce recipe featuring tender chicken breasts cooked to golden perfection and topped with a rich, zesty lemon butter sauce. This quick and easy skillet dish combines the tang of fresh lemon juice and zest with savory garlic and herbs, perfect for a delightful weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Lemon Butter Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly on both sides with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until they develop a golden crust and are cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Add Liquids and Zest: Pour in the chicken broth and freshly squeezed lemon juice, then stir in the lemon zest. Use a spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan to incorporate into the sauce for deeper flavor.
- Simmer Sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate the flavors. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt or pepper if necessary.
- Return Chicken to Skillet: Place the chicken breasts back into the skillet and spoon the lemon butter sauce over them. Let everything simmer together for an additional 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors and heat through.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the dish with fresh thyme if using and the chopped parsley for a fresh herbal touch before serving.
Notes
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides the best flavor; bottled lemon juice can alter the taste.
- Optional fresh thyme adds a lovely aromatic note but can be omitted if unavailable.
- This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes.
