If you’re searching for the perfect quick, flavorful dinner, look no further than Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce. With its vibrant citrusy zing, savory depth, and irresistibly silky sauce, this dish is truly a weeknight hero. The chicken turns golden and tender, while the fresh lemon mingles with thyme and garlic, creating a sauce so good you’ll want to drizzle it over everything. Whether you’re making a family meal or impressing guests, Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce delivers both comfort and elegance in just half an hour.

Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce is in its simplicity. Every ingredient shines, bringing balance to each bite, from the bright pop of lemon zest to the rich butter that pulls everything together.

Chicken breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for juicy, tender results and a quick cook time.
Olive oil: Adds a subtle, fruity flavor while helping the chicken develop a mouthwatering golden crust.
Unsalted butter: This brings both creaminess and richness, forming the luscious base of your sauce.
Garlic: Provides an aromatic lift and deliciously savory notes; fresh garlic makes all the difference in flavor.
Chicken broth: Adds savory depth and helps create a silky, spoonable sauce to coat the chicken.
Fresh lemon juice: The absolute star ingredient! Squeeze fresh lemons for a tangy, bright flavor that makes the sauce sing.
Lemon zest: Intensifies the citrus aroma and brings a glorious yellow hue to the finished dish.
Dried thyme: A pinch rounds out the sauce with gentle, herbaceous flavor that pairs perfectly with lemon.
Salt: Essential for highlighting all those fresh and savory flavors—season generously!
Black pepper: Adds a subtle warmth and enhances the overall taste.
Fresh parsley (optional): For a pop of color and a fresh, bright finish to your Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce.

How to Make Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Begin by patting your chicken breasts dry, then generously season both sides with dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. This step is crucial as it sets the stage for maximum flavor and a gorgeously seasoned crust that locks in juiciness.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot and shimmering, add the chicken breasts. Let them cook undisturbed for 5 to 6 minutes per side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Remove them to a plate and keep them warm—you want every bite juicy, not overcooked!

Step 3: Build the Lemon Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, drop in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, followed by the fresh minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute, just until fragrant—take care not to brown the garlic. This is where the base of your Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce comes to life!

Step 4: Add Citrus and Broth

Pour in the chicken broth, followed by the fresh lemon juice and zest. Stir everything together, scraping up the golden bits from the bottom of the pan (those are flavor gold). Let the sauce come to a gentle simmer and reduce for about 3 to 5 minutes until it thickens slightly and the kitchen smells heavenly.

Step 5: Return and Finish

Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the luscious lemon butter sauce over each piece. Let everything cook together for another 2 minutes so the flavors meld gorgeously and the chicken heats through. Serve hot, topped with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color.

How to Serve Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce

Garnishes

For a fresh finish, scatter some finely chopped parsley or a bit of extra lemon zest over the top just before serving. Not only does it add a pop of color, but it also amplifies those lovely citrusy aromas that make this dish so irresistible.

Side Dishes

Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce is incredibly versatile when it comes to sides. For a cozy dinner, serve it over fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up all that glorious sauce. Steamed green beans, asparagus, or a side salad also work beautifully for something a little lighter and brighter.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking for a fun twist? Try slicing the chicken and arranging it atop a bed of wilted spinach or arugula. For entertaining, serve individual portions over crostini as a savory appetizer, or tuck inside a crusty sandwich roll with arugula for a citrus-infused lunch treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to spoon plenty of sauce over the chicken before storing to keep it moist and flavorful.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken with sauce for up to 2 months. Allow the chicken to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers. For best results, portion out individual servings so they’re easy to reheat later.

Reheating

Gently reheat your Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce in a covered skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if the sauce has thickened in the fridge. Avoid high heat to prevent the chicken from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully—just adjust the cook time as needed since they may require a couple more minutes per side for complete doneness.

What can I substitute for fresh lemon juice?

While fresh lemon juice is best for that bright flavor, bottled lemon juice will work in a pinch. Keep in mind, the flavor might be slightly less vibrant, so consider adding extra zest.

Is Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce gluten-free?

Yes, as written, this recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just be sure to check your chicken broth label to ensure it’s gluten-free as well.

How can I make the sauce even creamier?

You can stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end of cooking for an even richer, creamier lemon butter sauce that clings beautifully to each piece of chicken.

Can I make Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce ahead of time?

You can cook and store the chicken and sauce separately, then warm them together before serving. This helps maintain the chicken’s texture and the sauce’s glossy finish.

Final Thoughts

I hope you give this Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce a spot in your weeknight dinner rotation! It truly strikes the perfect balance of bright flavors and satisfying richness, turning simple ingredients into something special. Let the smell of fresh lemon and sizzling butter fill your kitchen—it’s irresistible and sure to become a family favorite.

Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe

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4.7 from 15 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce recipe is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The tangy lemon sauce pairs beautifully with the tender chicken breasts, creating a delicious and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

Lemon Butter Sauce:

3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
½ cup fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

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Instructions

Season the chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried thyme.
Cook the chicken: In a skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter. Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown.
Make the sauce: In the same skillet, sauté garlic in remaining butter. Add chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest. Simmer for 3-5 minutes.
Combine and serve: Return chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over the top, and cook for 2 more minutes. Garnish with parsley before serving.