Name: Lemon Butter Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 pieces chicken breasts ((12 to 14 ounces each, boneless and skinless)); 1 cup all-purpose flour ((for dredging)); 4 tablespoons olive oil ((for sautéing)); 4 cloves garlic ((thinly sliced)); 1 cup chicken stock; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 piece lemon ((juice of 1 lemon, about 3 to 4 tablespoons)); coarse salt and freshly cracked pepper ((to taste)); minced fresh parsley ((optional, for garnish))

There’s something utterly delightful about a dish that brings together the tangy brightness of lemon and the rich, comforting flavor of butter. This Lemon Butter Chicken Recipe is not only simple to prepare but also a guaranteed hit at the dinner table. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that feels gourmet yet is perfect for a weeknight meal. Juicy chicken breasts, sautéed garlic, and a luscious lemon butter sauce make this recipe a must-try. Ready to impress your family or guests? Let’s dive in!

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

This Lemon Butter Chicken Recipe ticks all the boxes for a crowd-pleasing meal. First, it’s incredibly flavorful, thanks to the combination of fresh lemon juice, garlic, and buttery goodness. Second, it’s quick to whip up, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish. Lastly, it’s versatile enough to pair with various sides, making it suitable for any occasion—from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. The tangy lemon sauce beautifully complements the savory chicken, ensuring that every bite leaves you wanting more.

What’s in the Bowl

To make this delicious Lemon Butter Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 chicken breasts (12 to 14 ounces each) – boneless and skinless for easy cooking.
1 cup all-purpose flour – for dredging the chicken to create a crispy exterior.
4 tablespoons olive oil – for sautéing and adding flavor.
4 thinly sliced garlic cloves – to infuse the dish with aromatic goodness.
1 cup chicken stock – for depth and richness in the sauce.
4 tablespoons unsalted butter – because butter makes everything better.
Juice of 1 lemon (about 3 to 4 tablespoons) – the star of the dish, providing brightness.
Coarse salt and freshly cracked pepper – to taste, enhancing the overall flavor.
Minced fresh parsley (optional, for garnish) – adds a pop of color and freshness.

What You’ll Need (Gear)

Before we jump into the cooking process, gather the following kitchen gear:

Large skillet – for cooking the chicken and making the sauce.
Meat mallet or rolling pin – to pound the chicken breasts for even cooking.
Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient measurements.
Spatula or tongs – to flip the chicken easily without breaking it apart.
Citrus juicer – for extracting lemon juice efficiently.

From Start to Finish: Lemon Butter Chicken Recipe

Now that we have everything ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your Lemon Butter Chicken.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken to an even thickness, about 1 inch. This helps the chicken cook evenly and stay juicy.

Step 2: Dredge in Flour

On a plate, spread out the all-purpose flour. Season it generously with coarse salt and freshly cracked pepper. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, ensuring both sides are coated well. Shake off any excess flour and set the chicken aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat 4 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

Step 4: Add Garlic

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and place it on a plate to keep warm. In the same skillet, add the thinly sliced garlic cloves. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

Pour in the chicken stock and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon. This adds extra flavor to your sauce. Let the stock simmer for about 2-3 minutes.

Step 6: Finish with Lemon and Butter

Reduce the heat to low, then add the unsalted butter and lemon juice to the skillet. Stir until the butter is melted and the sauce is well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Step 7: Combine and Serve

Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the lemon butter sauce over the top. Allow the chicken to warm through for another minute. Garnish with minced fresh parsley if desired, then serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives

If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, you can easily tweak this Lemon Butter Chicken Recipe to fit your needs:

Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for dredging the chicken.
Replace the chicken stock with homemade bone broth for added nutrition.
Pair with steamed vegetables or a leafy green salad instead of starchier sides.
Consider adding heavy cream to the sauce for a richer, creamier consistency.

Mistakes Even Pros Make

Even the most experienced cooks can stumble when preparing a delicious Lemon Butter Chicken. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

Overcooking the chicken: This can lead to dry, tough meat. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Skipping the dredging step: The flour coating helps create a crispy crust and enhances the sauce.
Not seasoning enough: Be sure to season both the flour and the chicken to amplify flavors.
Burning the garlic: Garlic cooks quickly, so keep a close eye on it to prevent bitterness.

Prep Ahead & Store

This Lemon Butter Chicken is perfect for meal prep! Here are some tips for preparing ahead and storing leftovers:

Prep the chicken: Pound and dredge the chicken breasts a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
Make the sauce: You can prepare the lemon butter sauce in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.
Leftovers: Store any leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm the chicken in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock to keep it moist.

Ask & Learn

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

While it’s best to use fresh chicken, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Make sure to thaw them completely before pounding and cooking.

What can I serve with Lemon Butter Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, such as rice pilaf, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.

Can I add other flavors to the sauce?

Absolutely! Feel free to add herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra flavor boost. Capers or olives can also add a nice briny touch.

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Yes! You can replace the chicken with firm tofu or seitan. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure it’s cooked through.

Desserts to Finish

End your meal on a sweet note with one of these delightful desserts:

Classic Lemon Bars – Bright and tangy, these bars are a perfect citrusy finish.
Easy Chocolate Cupcakes – Rich and indulgent, these cupcakes are a crowd favorite.
Berry Sorbet – A light and refreshing dessert to cleanse the palate.
Vanilla Bean Cheesecake – Creamy and dreamy, this cheesecake is a showstopper.

The Takeaway

This Lemon Butter Chicken Recipe is a fantastic way to bring restaurant-quality flavors into your home kitchen. With its bright, zesty sauce and tender chicken, it’s a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the simple pleasures of a well-cooked meal and the joy of sharing it with those you love. Happy cooking!