Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce

Name: Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 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); 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)

Isabella

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Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce a tender chicken breasts smothered in a zesty lemon butter sauce make for a quick, satisfying meal. The rich, buttery sauce pairs perfectly with the bright citrus notes of lemon, creating a flavorful dish that’s both comforting and refreshing. This recipe is a perfect choice when I crave something simple but packed with fresh, vibrant flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce delivers such a burst of flavor without requiring too much time or effort. The chicken turns out perfectly juicy and tender, while the lemon butter sauce adds a rich and tangy contrast. It’s the kind of dish that feels elegant yet is easy enough for a weeknight meal. Plus, the sauce is versatile enough to pair with other proteins or even vegetables!

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

3 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup chicken broth

1 tablespoon lemon zest

1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice

1 teaspoon fresh thyme (optional)

1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)

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

Directions

I start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.

In a large skillet, I heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, I add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Once done, I remove them from the skillet and set them aside.

In the same skillet, I melt the butter over medium heat. Then, I add the minced garlic and sauté it for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Next, I pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest, using a spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This helps to build flavor for the sauce.

After that i let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly. I taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

I return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Then I let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes so the chicken absorbs the flavors.

Finally, I garnish the dish with fresh thyme and chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

For a slightly creamy sauce, I can add a splash of heavy cream to the lemon butter sauce.

If I want to add more veggies to the dish, I can sauté some spinach or asparagus in the skillet after cooking the chicken and serve them alongside.

For extra depth of flavor, I can use a splash of white wine in place of some of the chicken broth.

For a spicier kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce works great in the sauce.

Storage/reheating

To store, I place the chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little more chicken broth or butter to bring back the sauce’s richness and moisture. The dish can also be reheated in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, but I prefer the skillet for better flavor retention.

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FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken breasts instead of boneless?

Yes, I can definitely use bone-in chicken breasts, though the cooking time will be longer. It’s important to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

I recommend making the dish fresh for the best texture and flavor. However, I can make the sauce ahead of time and store it separately. Reheat the sauce and add the chicken when ready to serve.

Can I substitute other herbs for thyme?

Absolutely! If I don’t have thyme, fresh rosemary, oregano, or basil would be great alternatives. They will add a different flavor, but still complement the lemon well.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

For the best flavor, I prefer using freshly squeezed lemon juice, but bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch. Fresh lemon zest will also provide a stronger citrus flavor.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs would work wonderfully in this recipe! They’re a bit richer and juicier than chicken breasts, so they’ll absorb the sauce flavors nicely.

Conclusion

This Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce is a quick and easy dish that doesn’t skimp on flavor. I love how the bright, citrusy lemon pairs with the richness of the butter, making it a dish that feels both indulgent and refreshing. Whether I’m cooking for myself or entertaining, this recipe never disappoints. It’s a simple yet elegant meal that’s perfect for any occasion.