Lemon chicken with butter sauce is a delightful dish that combines tender, pan-seared chicken with a luscious, tangy sauce. This quick recipe is perfect for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for entertaining. With simple ingredients like fresh lemons, butter, and garlic, this dish delivers a punch of flavor without much effort. Serve it with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables for a meal that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to an even thickness)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- ½ cup heavy cream (optional for creamy sauce)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation
Prepare and Season the Chicken
- In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Dredge the chicken breasts in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
Pan-Sear the Chicken
- Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove the chicken and set aside.
Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits for extra flavor.
- Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and heavy cream (if using). Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Combine and Serve
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top.
- Simmer for 2 minutes to warm the chicken through and let it soak up the sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Variations
- Herbaceous Lemon Chicken: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the sauce for an earthy twist.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.
- Creamy Lemon Butter Sauce: Double the heavy cream for an extra indulgent, creamy sauce.
Cooking Note
- Zest First: Zest the lemon before juicing for ease and efficiency.
- Consistency: For a thicker sauce, whisk in 1 teaspoon of cornstarch dissolved in 2 tablespoons of water.
Serving Suggestions
Lemon chicken with butter sauce pairs beautifully with:
- Garlic butter pasta or creamy mashed potatoes
- Steamed asparagus, broccoli, or roasted carrots
- A warm crusty baguette to soak up the sauce
Tips
- Pound the chicken breasts to even thickness for consistent cooking.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor; bottled juice can taste metallic.
- To save time, prep ingredients like garlic and parsley while the chicken cooks.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 34g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Sodium: 440mg
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Substitute the butter with olive oil or dairy-free margarine and skip the cream.
How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Conclusion
Lemon chicken with butter sauce is a zesty, buttery delight that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Whether you’re hosting guests or preparing a quick weeknight meal, this dish is both simple and satisfying. Try it today and savor the balance of citrus and richness!