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
Scale
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.
