Lemon Chicken With Lemon Butter Sauce

Get ready to meet your new dinner hero: LEMON CHICKEN (WITH LEMON BUTTER SAUCE)! This mouthwatering dish is a symphony of juicy chicken breasts bathed in a sunny, tangy sauce that practically begs to be scooped up with every bite. With only a handful of fresh ingredients and just 30 minutes from stovetop to table, this recipe fills your kitchen with a lively citrus aroma and promises a meal that’s both elegant and effortless. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or looking to impress guests, you’ll fall in love with the burst of lemon balanced by creamy butter, and find yourself coming back to this refreshing, crowd-pleasing classic again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of LEMON CHICKEN (WITH LEMON BUTTER SAUCE) lies in its simplicity — each ingredient plays a starring role, contributing flavor, texture, and a pop of bright color that truly makes this dish come alive. Having these kitchen staples on hand means a satisfying meal is never far away!

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These are ideal for quick, even cooking and provide a juicy, tender base for the sauce.
• Fresh lemons (zest and juice): The zest offers a bold citrus aroma while the juice infuses the sauce with signature tang.
• Unsalted butter: Adds incredible richness and helps create the luscious, glossy sauce.
• Garlic cloves: Just the right touch of savory flavor to deepen the sauce and complement the lemon.
• Low-sodium chicken broth: Lends body and depth, balancing the acidity and helping build a smooth sauce.
• Fresh parsley (for garnish): A final sprinkling of parsley adds color and a hint of herbal freshness.

How to Make LEMON CHICKEN (WITH LEMON BUTTER SAUCE)

Step 1: Gather and Prep Ingredients

Start by prepping all of your ingredients so everything is ready to go when you need it. Mince the garlic for a fragrant punch, chop the parsley for a fresh finish, and zest and juice your lemons for maximum flavor. Having everything at arm’s reach helps the actual cooking flow even more smoothly.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat a drizzle of olive oil in your favorite skillet over medium-high heat. Pat the chicken breasts dry and season generously with salt and pepper. Lay them in the hot pan and let each side get beautifully golden — about 6 to 7 minutes per side. This step creates that irresistible crispy edge and seals in all the juices. Once cooked through, transfer the chicken to a plate and keep warm.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic and Butter

Dial the heat down to medium and add the butter right into the same pan. As it melts, sprinkle in your minced garlic. Sauté for just a minute until fragrant and lightly golden — you want to coax out the aroma without letting it burn. This fragrant base is where the sauce starts to build!

Step 4: Create the Lemon Butter Sauce

Pour in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and low-sodium chicken broth, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the skillet to capture all the flavor. Let the sauce bubble gently for about three minutes so it thickens just slightly and all those zesty, buttery notes mingle to perfection.

Step 5: Finish Together

Return the chicken (and any resting juices!) to the skillet, letting each piece soak up the shimmering lemon butter goodness. Spoon sauce over the top and let the chicken cook together with the sauce for another two minutes to ensure everything is piping hot and coated in flavor. A handful of chopped fresh parsley is the final touch.

How to Serve LEMON CHICKEN (WITH LEMON BUTTER SAUCE)

Garnishes

Just before serving, shower your LEMON CHICKEN (WITH LEMON BUTTER SAUCE) with a flourish of freshly chopped parsley and a few paper-thin lemon slices. The green pops against the golden chicken and sauce, and the extra lemon adds inviting brightness for guests who crave even more zestiness.

Side Dishes

This dish absolutely shines over a bed of fluffy, hot rice, as each grain soaks up the tangy, buttery sauce. Pair it with roasted seasonal vegetables, crisp green beans, or a simple fresh salad to keep things light and let the flavors star. And if you have a crusty baguette on hand, don’t sleep on sopping up every last drop of that sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try slicing the chicken and fan it out over vibrant steamed asparagus or couscous on a serving platter, then drizzle with extra sauce and sprinkle with herbs. Mini cast-iron skillets also make a charming presentation, especially for a dinner party or family-style meal. If you love color, scatter on edible flowers or microgreens for an extra pop of springtime flair!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, let the chicken and sauce cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, LEMON CHICKEN (WITH LEMON BUTTER SAUCE) will keep for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, making your next-day meal just as scrumptious as the first round.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce together. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe bags or containers, pressing out any excess air. Freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge to help the chicken stay moist and flavorful when you’re ready to reheat.

Reheating

To bring LEMON CHICKEN (WITH LEMON BUTTER SAUCE) back to life, reheat gently in a covered skillet over low heat, adding a splash of extra broth or water if the sauce seems too thick. Avoid microwaving, if possible, as it tends to dry out the chicken — a little patience on the stovetop rewards you with juicy, tender results.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a wonderful alternative and will give you a slightly richer, more succulent flavor. Adjust cooking times as needed (thighs usually take a few minutes longer) and be sure they’re cooked through before serving with the sauce.

What if I don’t have fresh lemons?

Fresh lemons give LEMON CHICKEN (WITH LEMON BUTTER SAUCE) its signature zing, but in a pinch, bottled lemon juice will work. You may want to add a little extra for brightness, or toss in a touch of zest from another citrus fruit like lime or orange for added aroma.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes — substitute a good-quality plant-based butter or olive oil for the unsalted butter. While the finished sauce will be slightly different, you’ll still enjoy plenty of lemony flavor and a rich, silky consistency.

How can I tell when the chicken is cooked through?

The best method is to use an instant-read thermometer; the thickest part of the chicken should register 165°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, slice into the thickest piece to make sure the juices run clear and there’s no pink remaining.

Is it okay to double the recipe for a crowd?

Definitely! LEMON CHICKEN (WITH LEMON BUTTER SAUCE) is perfect for gatherings. Simply use a larger skillet or work in batches, then combine everything at the end to simmer together and be sure all the chicken is thoroughly warmed and coated before serving.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a dish that’s as comforting as it is show-stopping, give LEMON CHICKEN (WITH LEMON BUTTER SAUCE) a spot at your table. With its effortless prep, zesty punch, and irresistibly buttery sauce, it’s a recipe that turns any meal into a little celebration. I can’t wait for you to experience its bright, crave-worthy flavors — don’t be surprised when it disappears quickly and becomes your new signature dinner!

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