If you’re craving a dish that’s bright, buttery, and downright comforting, then you absolutely need to try this Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce. It’s a perfect balance of tender, juicy chicken breasts drenched in a luscious sauce that sings with fresh lemon flavor and rich butter. This recipe transforms everyday ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or a special occasion, this Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce never fails to impress and satisfy.

Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward and essential, each playing a vital role in creating the vibrant flavors and inviting texture of the dish. From juicy chicken breasts to zesty lemon and creamy butter, every component works together in delicious harmony.

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds): The star of the dish, which cooks up tender and juicy.
Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that elevate the natural flavor of the chicken.
2 tablespoons olive oil: For perfectly searing the chicken and adding a lovely crispness to the outside.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds irresistible aromatic notes that deepen the sauce’s flavor.
1 cup chicken broth: Creates a rich base for the sauce and keeps it savory.
1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 lemons): Brings a bright, tangy punch that defines the dish.
1 piece lemon zest: Intensifies the lemon flavor with its fragrant oils, providing an extra fresh burst.
6 tablespoons unsalted butter: Makes the sauce perfectly silky and indulgent without overpowering the lemon.
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and a mild herbal finish.

How to Make Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Begin by generously seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This simple step is crucial because it adds foundational flavor, ensuring every bite has a perfect balance of seasoning that complements the lemon butter sauce later.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully place the chicken breasts in the pan, allowing them to cook undisturbed for 5 to 7 minutes per side. You’re aiming for a golden-brown crust, which locks in the juices and gives wonderful texture contrast. Once cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

Using the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds or until it releases its aroma. This quick step infuses the base of the sauce with garlicky warmth without overwhelming the freshness of the lemon.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pan

Pour in the chicken broth and freshly squeezed lemon juice, carefully scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. These bits are packed with flavor and create a rich, savory foundation for your sauce. Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer to meld the flavors together.

Step 5: Create the Lemon Butter Sauce

Add the lemon zest to infuse a concentrated lemon brightness. Then whisk in the unsalted butter gradually, letting it melt to form a silky, smooth sauce that clings beautifully to the chicken. Season with additional salt and pepper to your taste, adjusting the balance of flavors as needed.

Step 6: Simmer the Chicken in Sauce

Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce and spooning some over the top. Let them simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the chicken to soak up the gorgeous lemon butter flavors and ensuring every bite is irresistibly moist.

Step 7: Serve

Once the chicken has soaked up all the saucy goodness, it’s ready to plate. Don’t forget the fresh parsley garnish before serving for a burst of color and freshness that ties everything together.

How to Serve Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley is ideal to finish this dish. It adds a lively green contrast that brightens the presentation and adds a subtle herbal note to complement the lemon butter sauce perfectly.

Side Dishes

This Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce pairs beautifully with fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes, which soak up the delicious sauce wonderfully. Roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad also offer great texture contrast and keep the meal balanced and fresh.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, try serving the chicken over a bed of sautéed spinach or wilted kale, letting the sauce cascade around the greens. Garnish with thin lemon slices for an elegant touch that hints at the zingy flavors within.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover lemon chicken stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce and chicken together to maintain that luscious taste and moisture.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce for up to 2 months. Make sure to use a freezer-safe container and leave some headspace for expansion. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat. This method preserves the delicate butter sauce and keeps the chicken tender. Avoid microwaving as it can sometimes separate the sauce and dry out the chicken.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work great for this recipe, and they stay moist and flavorful. Just adjust cooking time slightly since thighs can cook a bit faster.

Is it possible to make the sauce dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the unsalted butter with a dairy-free butter alternative or olive oil for a delicious dairy-free version that still delivers great flavor.

Can I add other herbs besides parsley?

Certainly! Fresh thyme or basil pairs beautifully with the lemon butter sauce and gives the dish a different aromatic profile you might enjoy experimenting with.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The best way is to use an instant-read thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F. If you don’t have one, cut into the thickest part to ensure the juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink.

Can this dish be made gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your chicken broth is gluten-free. Always check labels to be sure!

Final Thoughts

If you want a dish that’s bright, buttery, and utterly satisfying, Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce is an absolute must-try. Its simple ingredients come together in such a beautiful way that you’ll wonder why you didn’t make it sooner. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion centerpiece, this recipe is sure to become one of your favorites because it’s that good. Give it a go and watch it quickly become a family staple!

Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 18 reviews

Author: Sophie
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

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Description

A bright and flavorful Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce recipe featuring tender boneless chicken breasts cooked to perfection and smothered in a rich, zesty lemon butter sauce. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant meal.

Instructions

Season the chicken: Thoroughly season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavor.
Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts carefully and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked with an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Sauté garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Make the sauce base: Pour in the chicken broth and freshly squeezed lemon juice, scraping the browned bits from the skillet bottom for flavor. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Add lemon zest and butter: Stir in the lemon zest, then whisk in the unsalted butter until the sauce becomes smooth and slightly thickened. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
Combine chicken and sauce: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the lemon butter sauce over them. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Serve: Plate the chicken breasts and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy this zesty, buttery delight.

Notes

Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
Use fresh lemon juice for the best bright, tangy flavor.
For a thicker sauce, simmer it a bit longer before adding chicken back in.
Can be served with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.
Butter can be substituted with a dairy-free alternative for lactose intolerance.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéing
Cuisine: American