Few dish ingredients encapsulate freshness and vibrancy, like the irresistible duo of lemon and butter. When these come together with chicken, the result is nothing short of culinary magic! This lemon butter chicken recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort. Its zesty and buttery notes make it a standout dish on any dining table.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 2 lemons
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Equipments
- Large skillet
- Whisk
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
How to Make Lemon Butter Chicken Recipe – Step By Step
Step 1: Season Chicken
Pepper and salt the chicken breasts liberally. This step ensures that each bite is full of flavor. Don’t forget to pat down the seasoning into the chicken, letting it adhere well before cooking. This will also form a slight crust when searing, trapping in the juices.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with the olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown. It’s crucial to sear the chicken without crowding the pan, letting each piece have enough space to form a crust. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Create the Lemon Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add butter, allowing it to melt. Stir in garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add lemon juice, lemon zest, and Italian seasoning. Stir continuously to mix well for about a minute, ensuring the ingredients meld beautifully in a harmonious sauce.
Step 4: Add Chicken Broth
Pour the chicken broth into the skillet and whisk everything together. Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer, allowing flavors to deepen and the sauce to thicken slightly. This will create a luxurious base for the chicken.
Step 5: Return the Chicken
Place the seared chicken breasts back into the pan, nestling them into your lemon butter sauce. Cover the pan and let the chicken cook in the sauce for another 5-7 minutes until fully cooked through and juicy.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once cooked through, garnish your lemon butter chicken with freshly cut parsley for a pop of color and extra freshness. This final touch will elevate the dish’s aroma and presentation.
How to Serve Lemon Butter Chicken Recipe
This lemon butter chicken pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or a simple side of steamed vegetables. Consider serving it alongside fluffy rice or buttery mashed potatoes, allowing the sauce to mingle with the sides.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
To ensure a flavorful dish, don’t skip searing the chicken. This step locks in juices and enhances the dish’s overall depth. Be patient while creating the sauce, allowing the flavors to meld completely before returning the chicken to the pan.
Protein Powerhouse: The High Protein Lemon Butter Chicken Version
Looking to increase your protein intake? Opt for this recipe but substitute boneless skinless chicken thighs instead! Not only will you enjoy a juicier texture, but you’ll also boost your meal’s nutritional profile. Add extra protein with a side of quinoa or chickpea salad.
Low Carb Delight: The Low Carb Lemon Butter Chicken
If you’re on a low-carb journey, consider serving this dish with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. This switch reduces carb content without sacrificing any of the dish’s delicious flavor. Plus, these substitutes will perfectly soak up the tangy, buttery sauce.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover lemon butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it back in the skillet with a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture and heat until warmed through.
FAQs
- Can I use bone-in chicken breasts? Absolutely! Just adjust cooking times as they might take a bit longer to cook through.
- Is it possible to freeze lemon butter chicken? Yes, cool completely and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- What can I substitute for Italian seasoning? Oregano, thyme, and basil make a great blend if Italian seasoning isn’t available.
- Can I use lime instead of lemon? While lemons add a unique flavor, lime can be an interesting twist for a different tartness.
- Does this recipe work with fish? Yes, swap chicken with white fish like cod for a similar savory experience.
Unlocking Flavors: Join the Lemon Butter Chicken Revolution
This lemon butter chicken recipe is a must-try for anyone seeking a flavorful and easy-to-make dish. Share it with friends, leave a comment if you’ve tried it, and let the magic unfold in your kitchen.
Lemon Butter Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- chicken breasts
- olive oil
- unsalted butter
- garlic
- lemons
- Italian seasoning
- chicken broth
- parsley
Instructions
Steps
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken breasts on each side until golden, then set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the skillet, then garlic; cook until fragrant.
- Add lemon juice, zest, and Italian seasoning; stir to combine.
- Pour in chicken broth, whisking to combine, and bring to a simmer.
- Return chicken to the pan, simmering until cooked through.
- Garnish with parsley and serve.