Lemon Butter Chicken

Lemon Butter Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together the bright, zesty flavors of lemon with the rich, creamy goodness of butter. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also results in a dish that feels indulgent enough for a special occasion yet approachable for a weeknight dinner. With tender chicken breasts, aromatic garlic, and a touch of parsley for garnish, this meal will become a family favorite in no time. Get ready to savor every bite of this delectable dish!

Reasons to Love Lemon Butter Chicken

This Lemon Butter Chicken is perfect for a variety of reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly flavorful, thanks to the combination of fresh lemon and garlic. The creamy butter sauce complements the chicken beautifully, making each bite irresistible. Additionally, it’s a quick meal that can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Whether served with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad, this dish is versatile and satisfying. Plus, the freshness of the lemon can brighten up even the gloomiest of days.

The Essentials

To make this delicious Lemon Butter Chicken, gather the following ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced in half lengthwise
• Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper
• 2 to 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Chopped fresh parsley, for serving

These ingredients are readily available and come together to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor.

Equipment Breakdown

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to have the right tools on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Large skillet – for cooking the chicken and creating the sauce.
• Meat mallet or rolling pin – to flatten the chicken breasts for even cooking.
• Measuring cups and spoons – to accurately measure your ingredients.
• Cutting board and knife – for slicing the chicken and lemon.
• Spatula or tongs – for flipping the chicken in the skillet.

Having these tools will ensure a smooth cooking experience and help you achieve the best results.

Directions: Lemon Butter Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing the sliced chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound them to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch. This helps the chicken cook evenly and remain tender. Season both sides generously with Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper.

Step 2: Dredge the Chicken

In a shallow dish, add the all-purpose flour. Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour, ensuring they are well-coated. Shake off any excess flour and set the chicken aside.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the extra-virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the floured chicken breasts in a single layer. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

Step 4: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 5: Add Lemon

Next, add the thinly sliced lemon to the skillet, tossing gently to coat in the butter and garlic. Pour in the freshly squeezed lemon juice, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for a minute to meld the flavors.

Step 6: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the lemon butter sauce over the top. Allow the chicken to heat through for another minute, absorbing all that wonderful flavor.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately, drizzling more lemon butter sauce over the chicken if desired.

Make It Your Way

There are plenty of ways to customize this Lemon Butter Chicken recipe to suit your tastes:

• For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the garlic while sautéing.
• Swap out the chicken for shrimp or scallops for a seafood twist.
• Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for an extra depth of flavor.
• Include vegetables like asparagus or spinach in the skillet for a complete meal.

Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own!

If You’re Curious

Lemon Butter Chicken is not just a tasty meal, but it also has roots in classic French cooking. The technique of creating a pan sauce from the fond (the delicious browned bits left in the skillet) is a hallmark of French cuisine. This recipe pays homage to that tradition while keeping the ingredients simple and accessible.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

To keep your Lemon Butter Chicken fresh and delicious:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to preserve the texture of the chicken. You can also freeze the chicken in the sauce for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Common Qs About Lemon Butter Chicken

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and will yield even juicier results. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless for this recipe.

What can I serve with Lemon Butter Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, such as fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or a light salad. You could also serve it alongside Garlic Parmesan Chicken Alfredo Bake for a comforting meal.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure it’s cooked through without being dry.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately. Just reheat the chicken in the sauce before serving for the best flavor.

Healthy-ish Favorites

If you enjoyed this Lemon Butter Chicken, you might also like these healthy-ish favorites:

• Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta Casserole
• Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken
• Honey Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry
• Easy Chicken Piccata

Final Bite

Lemon Butter Chicken is a delightful dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. With its bright lemon flavor and creamy butter sauce, it’s a meal that feels both comforting and elegant. The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation make it an excellent choice for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a plate of this mouthwatering Lemon Butter Chicken tonight!