Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with fresh citrus and savory garlic flavors
• Quick one-pan preparation with minimal cleanup
• Works with chicken breasts, thighs, or tenderloins
• Pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or vegetables
• Elegant enough for guests, easy enough for weeknights

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil
• Butter
• Garlic, minced
• Lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• Lemon zest (optional, for extra brightness)
• Chicken broth
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken on both sides until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, lower the heat and add butter. Once melted, stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
4. Add chicken broth, lemon juice, and optional zest. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to slightly reduce the sauce.
5. Return chicken to the pan, spooning sauce over the top. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add capers for a briny twist, similar to chicken piccata
• Include a splash of white wine for depth of flavor
• Add spinach, asparagus, or green beans for extra veggies
• Use chicken thighs for a juicier, richer flavor
• Make it dairy-free by swapping butter with olive oil or vegan butter

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container
• Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.

Can I make this with chicken thighs?

Yes, they work beautifully and are even juicier than breasts.

Can I add cream to the sauce?

Yes, for a richer, creamier sauce, stir in a few tablespoons of heavy cream at the end.

How do I prevent dry chicken?

Don’t overcook—use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F (74°C) internal temperature.

Can I grill the chicken instead?

Yes, then simply make the lemon garlic butter sauce separately and pour it over.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as written, it’s naturally gluten-free.

Can I double the sauce?

Absolutely, just double all sauce ingredients for extra flavor to pour over sides.

Can I use this sauce on fish?

Yes, it’s delicious with salmon, cod, or shrimp.

What’s the best side dish?

Mashed potatoes, rice, roasted vegetables, or pasta are great choices.

Can I meal prep this recipe?

Yes, it reheats well and is great for lunch portions.

Conclusion

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken is a fresh, zesty, and savory dish that comes together in under 30 minutes. Its bright flavors and tender chicken make it a versatile meal that works for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken

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Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken is a bright and savory dish with juicy chicken breasts in a buttery garlic sauce enhanced by fresh lemon juice. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknights or entertaining.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American/European Fusion

Ingredients

1. 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2. Salt and pepper, to taste
3. 1 tbsp olive oil
4. 3 tbsp butter
5. 4 cloves garlic, minced
6. 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
7. 1 tsp lemon zest (optional)
8. 1/2 cup chicken broth
9. Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

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Instructions

Season chicken: Sprinkle chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

1. Sear chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 4–5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
2. Make sauce: Lower heat to medium. Add butter to the skillet; once melted, stir in garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Deglaze: Pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, and optional zest. Simmer 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
4. Finish: Return chicken to the pan and spoon sauce over the top. Simmer another 2–3 minutes.
5. Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve immediately with your choice of sides.

Notes

1. For extra richness, add 2–3 tbsp heavy cream to the sauce at the end.
2. Chicken thighs or tenderloins can be substituted for breasts.
3. Add vegetables like asparagus, spinach, or green beans for a complete one-pan meal.
4. Double the sauce ingredients if you prefer more to pour over sides.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
• Calories: 310
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 420mg
• Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 125mg