If you are looking for a bright and zesty dinner that feels both refreshing and comforting, this Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Juicy chicken breasts are perfectly seared to golden perfection, then bathed in a luscious sauce bursting with fresh lemon juice, fragrant garlic, and creamy butter that melds into a tangy, silky coating. This dish is effortlessly elegant yet incredibly straightforward, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests without stress. Each bite delivers a balance of savory richness and vibrant citrus that never gets old.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this delicious Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe, you only need a handful of essential ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in building the layers of flavor, from the savory base to the bright, fresh finish.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein that cooks quickly and stays tender.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that enhance the chicken’s natural flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For searing the chicken to a beautiful golden crust.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds rich creaminess and depth to the sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with warm, aromatic notes.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Provides a savory base that balances the acidity of the lemon.
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice: The bright heart of the dish, cutting through the richness.
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest: Intensifies the citrus flavor with fragrant oils.
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (optional): Offers a subtle herbal undertone.
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish): Adds a fresh, inviting pop of green.
How to Make Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by generously seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This simple step is crucial because it ensures every bite is flavorful, not bland. Don’t rush this—season as evenly as you can to create a tasty foundation.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully place the chicken breasts in, cooking each side for about 5 to 6 minutes. You want a golden-brown crust that locks in the juices and keeps the chicken tender on the inside. Once browned and cooked through, transfer the breasts to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic in Butter
In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for 1 to 2 minutes until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden. This step infuses the butter with that irresistible garlicky aroma that will make your sauce so comforting.
Step 4: Create the Lemon Butter Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Use a spatula to scrape up the flavorful browned bits stuck to the skillet; those bits hold intense flavor and will deepen the sauce. Stir everything together and let the sauce come to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Simmer and Reduce
Allow the sauce to simmer for 3 to 4 minutes to thicken slightly, concentrating the flavors. This is your moment to taste and, if needed, adjust the seasoning with a bit more salt or pepper so every drop of sauce sings with brightness and balance.
Step 6: Reintroduce the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning the lemon butter sauce generously over them. Let everything simmer together for 2 to 3 more minutes to warm through and marry the flavors beautifully.
Step 7: Garnish and Finish
For the finishing touch, scatter fresh thyme leaves and chopped parsley over the chicken. The herbs add a fresh, herbal aroma and a splash of vibrant green that makes the dish look as good as it tastes.
How to Serve Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped parsley and thyme is classic, but a few thin lemon slices or a zesting of extra lemon peel can amplify the citrus mood. A touch of cracked black pepper on top also adds a subtle kick. Garnishes not only make the dish visually inviting but add layers of fresh flavor to each bite.
Side Dishes
This lemon butter chicken pairs wonderfully with light, simple sides that allow the sauce to shine. Think fluffy jasmine rice or buttery mashed potatoes to soak up every last bit of sauce. Roasted asparagus, steamed green beans, or a crisp mixed greens salad bring freshness and a touch of crunch that complements the rich sauce beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to make dinner extra special? Serve the chicken over a bed of creamy polenta or alongside a vibrant quinoa salad speckled with colorful veggies. You could also plate it over sautéed spinach for an elegant, restaurant-style presentation. Whatever you choose, the gorgeous lemon butter sauce will elevate your meal to memorable heights.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld beautifully overnight, so leftovers can taste even better than day one. Just keep the sauce and chicken together to prevent drying out.
Freezing
Freezing this dish is possible but not ideal because the lemon butter sauce can sometimes separate. If you do freeze it, be sure to use a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 to 2 months for best quality. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers over low heat on the stovetop to prevent the sauce from breaking apart. Adding a splash of chicken broth or a small pat of butter can help revive the sauce’s silky texture. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the chicken dry and the sauce less cohesive.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will bring a bit more richness and stay juicy, but cooking times may vary slightly, so be sure to cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Is fresh lemon juice really necessary?
Yes, fresh lemon juice provides the bright, natural acidity that bottled juice can’t quite replicate. It makes a noticeable difference in the flavor of the sauce.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make the lemon butter sauce dairy-free, substitute the butter with a good quality olive oil or a vegan butter alternative. The sauce will still be deliciously flavorful!
How long can I marinate the chicken to add more flavor?
This recipe doesn’t require marinating, but if you want, marinate the chicken in lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for 30 minutes to an hour to boost the citrus notes even further.
What wine pairs well with Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe?
Go for a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a lightly oaked Chardonnay. Their acidity will complement the lemon and balance the richness beautifully.
Final Thoughts
If you want to fall in love with a dinner recipe that feels special yet comes together in minutes, give this Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe a try. Its perfect balance of bright lemon and buttery goodness is comfort food elevated in the best way possible. Once you make it, you’ll have a go-to dish that’s always ready to impress family and friends with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Print
Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts cooked in a flavorful buttery lemon sauce. Quick and easy to prepare, this dish combines the brightness of fresh lemon juice and zest with the richness of butter and garlic, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option that’s both elegant and comforting.
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 the Chicken: Season chicken breasts evenly with salt and pepper on both sides to enhance their natural flavor before cooking.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest.
- Prepare the Sauce Base: In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add Liquids and Lemon: Pour in the chicken broth, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and lemon zest. Use a spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the pan to add depth to the sauce.
- Simmer the Sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 3-4 minutes so it can reduce slightly and concentrate in flavor. Taste the sauce and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Finish Cooking the Chicken in Sauce: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the lemon butter sauce over them. Let everything simmer together for an additional 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh thyme (if using) and chopped parsley over the chicken before serving to add color and a fresh herbal note.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best lemon flavor.
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter taste.
- Ensure not to overcook the chicken breasts to keep them juicy and tender.
- Fresh herbs like thyme and parsley enhance the aroma and presentation.
- Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
