If you are craving a dish that feels like sunshine on a plate, look no further than this delightful Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe. Combining tender, juicy chicken breasts with a vibrant, tangy lemon butter sauce, this meal is a perfect balance of bright citrus and rich, buttery goodness. Easy enough for a weeknight but elegant enough for guests, this recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a flavor-packed experience that’s as comforting as it is fresh. I can’t wait to share all the tasty details with you!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role—from the sharp zestiness of lemon to the savory depth of garlic and the silky smoothness of butter—ensuring every bite bursts with flavor and texture.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Choose evenly sized breasts for uniform cooking and juicy results.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning, they bring out the natural flavors of the chicken.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides a perfect searing surface and a touch of richness.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds creaminess and depth to the lemon sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a subtle punch of aromatic flavor that complements the lemon beautifully.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Creates a savory base for the sauce, balancing the acidity of the lemon.
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice: The star ingredient that brightens the entire dish.
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest: Intensifies the lemon flavor with fragrant oils from the peel.
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (optional): Adds a delicate herbal note that enhances the complexity of the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish): Brings a fresh, vibrant finish and a pop of color.
How to Make Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for about 5 to 6 minutes per side until it develops a gorgeous golden crust and is cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside to rest while you make the sauce.
Step 2: Create the Lemon Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until it’s fragrant but not browned, releasing that irresistible aroma. Next, pour in the chicken broth, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and sprinkle in the lemon zest. Use a spatula to scrape up all those browned bits from the pan’s bottom—these carry a ton of flavor and will enrich your sauce beautifully.
Step 3: Simmer and Finish Cooking
Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes so it thickens just a bit and the flavors meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon the luscious lemon butter sauce over each piece, and let everything simmer together for an additional 2 to 3 minutes. If you like, sprinkle fresh thyme over the top at this stage for an herby boost.
How to Serve Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
The final touch really makes the dish sparkle. A sprinkle of chopped parsley is not only visually inviting but also adds a fresh, slightly peppery flavor that cuts through the buttery richness. Fresh thyme leaves, if you used them while cooking, can be left on the plate for an elegant presentation and subtle herbal aroma.
Side Dishes
This lemony chicken pairs wonderfully with light and fresh or creamy sides. Think fluffy mashed potatoes that soak up every drop of sauce, or a crisp green salad dressed simply with olive oil and vinegar. Roasted asparagus or steamed green beans provide a lovely crunch and gorgeous color contrast on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, arrange the chicken breasts neatly on a platter and drizzle extra sauce generously over the top. You can also add thin lemon slices or twists around the edges for a vibrant citrus garnish. Serving with a bed of sautéed spinach or lemon-infused quinoa can elevate this delightful meal into a special occasion-worthy dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover lemon chicken keeps nicely in the refrigerator for up to three days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve the flavors and moisture of the chicken and sauce. Make sure to refrigerate as soon as possible after serving to maintain freshness.
Freezing
If you’d like to enjoy this dish at a later time, freeze the cooked chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers. The chicken can be frozen for up to two months without losing much quality. Label your containers with dates so you know exactly when to use them.
Reheating
When reheating, gently warm the chicken and sauce together in a skillet over medium-low heat until heated through, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce needs loosening. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the chicken dry and the sauce separate. This method keeps everything tender and saucy just like freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will work beautifully with this Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe. They are slightly juicier and add a rich flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
Is fresh lemon juice necessary for the sauce?
Freshly squeezed lemon juice makes a big difference for the bright, clean flavor in this sauce, but if you’re in a pinch, bottled lemon juice can be used. Just use the freshest you can find and adjust the quantity to taste.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely. This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it relies on simple, whole ingredients. Just double-check that your chicken broth is gluten-free if using store-bought.
What if I don’t have fresh thyme?
If fresh thyme is unavailable, dried thyme can be substituted. Use about a third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. Or you can skip it altogether since the lemon and garlic flavors shine on their own.
How can I make the sauce creamier?
For a creamier sauce, you can stir in a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of crème fraîche at the end of simmering. This adds richness without overpowering the lemon’s brightness.
Final Thoughts
Whipping up this Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe is like inviting a bit of joy and sunshine to your dinner table. It’s bright, buttery, and comforting all at once, making it one of those dishes you’ll want to return to again and again. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or yourself, this recipe promises satisfying flavors and a lovely cooking experience. Give it a try—you’ll be so glad you did!
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
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A bright and flavorful Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce recipe featuring tender seared chicken breasts simmered in a tangy lemon garlic butter sauce, enhanced with fresh herbs for a simple yet elegant dish perfect for any weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
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)
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
Instructions
- Season Chicken: Season chicken breasts evenly with salt and pepper on both sides to enhance their natural flavor before cooking.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until they develop a golden crust and are cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and slightly golden, being careful not to burn it.
- Make Sauce: Pour in chicken broth, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Use a spatula to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the pan; these add depth and flavor to the sauce.
- Simmer Sauce: Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly, concentrating the flavors. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if necessary.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken breasts back to the skillet. Spoon the lemon butter sauce over them and allow everything to simmer together for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring the chicken is warmed and well coated with sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh thyme if using, and chopped parsley over the chicken before serving to add freshness and color.
Notes
- For a thicker sauce, let the sauce reduce longer or add a small slurry of cornstarch and water.
- Fresh lemon juice is preferred for the best bright and vibrant flavor.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or a light salad for a balanced meal.
- You can substitute chicken breasts with boneless thighs if preferred; cooking time may vary slightly.
- Thyme is optional but adds a lovely herbal note that pairs well with lemon.
