Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken: just the name alone conjures up images of succulent, juicy chicken bathed in a rich, flavorful sauce, doesn’t it? I’m thrilled to share this recipe with you, because it’s one of those dishes that feels incredibly fancy but is surprisingly simple to make. Forget complicated weeknight dinners; this is restaurant-quality flavor in your own kitchen in under an hour!

While the exact origins of this particular combination are a bit hazy, the concept of pairing lemon, garlic, and butter with poultry has been a culinary staple for centuries across various cultures. Think of the classic French “poulet au citron” or the Italian tradition of using garlic and butter to enhance the natural flavors of chicken. This recipe draws inspiration from these timeless techniques, creating a harmonious blend of bright citrus, pungent garlic, and creamy butter that elevates the humble chicken breast to something truly special.

What makes Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken so universally loved? It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The lemon provides a refreshing tang that cuts through the richness of the butter, while the garlic adds a savory depth that keeps you coming back for more. The chicken itself becomes incredibly tender and moist, practically melting in your mouth. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! Serve it over pasta, rice, or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a regular in your dinner rotation.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (from about 1-2 lemons)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Optional Garnishes:

Lemon wedges
Fresh parsley sprigs

Preparing the Chicken:

Pound the Chicken: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This helps the chicken cook evenly and quickly. Don’t skip this step! It makes a huge difference.
Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Generously sprinkle this mixture over both sides of the chicken breasts, pressing lightly to adhere. Make sure every part of the chicken is covered with the seasoning.

Cooking the Chicken:

Heat the Oil: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken. A hot skillet will help create a nice sear.
Sear the Chicken: Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the hot skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches. Sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
Remove the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Cover it loosely with foil to keep it warm while you prepare the sauce.

Making the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce:

Melt the Butter: In the same skillet (without cleaning it), melt the butter over medium heat.
Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter. Keep stirring it constantly.
Add the Chicken Broth and Lemon Juice: Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. These browned bits add a ton of flavor to the sauce!
Simmer and Reduce: Let the sauce simmer for about 3-5 minutes, or until it has slightly reduced and thickened. It should be able to coat the back of a spoon.
Stir in the Parsley and Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and red pepper flakes (if using).
Add Heavy Cream (Optional): If you want a richer sauce, stir in the heavy cream. This will make the sauce even more decadent.
Season to Taste: Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that the chicken is already seasoned, so taste the sauce before adding too much salt.

Combining Chicken and Sauce:

Return the Chicken to the Skillet: Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet with the lemon garlic butter sauce.
Coat the Chicken: Spoon the sauce over the chicken breasts, making sure they are well coated.
Simmer Briefly: Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Serving:

Plate the Chicken: Transfer the lemon garlic butter chicken to plates.
Spoon the Sauce: Spoon the remaining sauce over the chicken. Don’t be shy with the sauce! It’s the best part.
Garnish (Optional): Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh parsley sprigs, if desired.
Serve Immediately: Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as rice, pasta, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.

Tips and Variations:

Chicken Thighs: You can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this recipe. They will take a bit longer to cook, about 6-8 minutes per side.
Wine: For a richer flavor, add 1/4 cup of dry white wine to the sauce along with the chicken broth and lemon juice.
Vegetables: Add some vegetables to the skillet while the chicken is cooking, such as asparagus, broccoli, or bell peppers.
Spicy: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes for a spicier dish. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken seasoning.
Herbs: Experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary, sage, or chives.
Dairy-Free: Omit the butter and use olive oil instead. You can also use a dairy-free cream alternative.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and sauce separately ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator and reheat them when ready to serve.
Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.

Serving Suggestions:

Rice: Serve over fluffy white rice or brown rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
Pasta: Toss with your favorite pasta, such as linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti.
Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, asparagus, carrots, or Brussels sprouts.
Mashed Potatoes: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
Quinoa: Serve with quinoa for a healthy and protein-packed meal.
Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad for a light and refreshing meal.
Crusty Bread: Serve with crusty bread for dipping into the sauce.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

Calories: 350-450 per serving
Protein: 40-50 grams
Fat: 15-25 grams
Carbohydrates: 5-10 grams

Why This Recipe Works:

This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken recipe is a winner for several reasons:

Quick and Easy: It’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavorful: The combination of lemon, garlic, and butter creates a bright and savory sauce that’s irresistible.
Versatile: It pairs well with a variety of sides, so you can easily customize your meal.
Healthy: It’s a lean protein source that’s packed with flavor.
Crowd-Pleasing: It’s a dish that everyone will love, even picky eaters.

Troubleshooting:

Chicken is Dry: Make sure you don’t overcook the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Pounding the chicken to an even thickness also helps it cook evenly and prevents it from drying out.
Sauce is Too Thin: Let the sauce simmer for a longer period of time to allow it to reduce and thicken. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to the sauce to help thicken it.
Sauce is Too Thick: Add a little more chicken broth or lemon juice to thin the sauce.
Sauce is Too Sour

Conclusion:

This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken recipe isn’t just another chicken dish; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen in your kitchen! The bright, zesty lemon perfectly complements the savory garlic and rich butter, creating a symphony of tastes that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor payoff, making it a weeknight dinner champion. But don’t let its simplicity fool you this dish is elegant enough to serve at a dinner party, impressing your guests with its sophisticated yet comforting profile.

Why is this a must-try? Because it’s the perfect balance of convenience and deliciousness. You can have a restaurant-quality meal on the table in under an hour, using ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. The chicken comes out incredibly tender and juicy, infused with the vibrant flavors of lemon and garlic. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, even for picky eaters! Plus, the versatility of this recipe is unmatched.

Looking for serving suggestions? I’ve got you covered! This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a classic combination, serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up all that delicious sauce. Roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or a simple green salad are excellent choices for lighter options. If you’re feeling adventurous, try serving it with quinoa or couscous for a more exotic twist. Crusty bread is also a must-have for soaking up every last drop of that amazing sauce.

And speaking of variations, the possibilities are endless! Want to add a little heat? A pinch of red pepper flakes will do the trick. Craving some extra veggies? Toss in some sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking. For a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half before serving. You can even use bone-in chicken thighs for a richer, more flavorful dish. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own!

I truly believe that this Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken recipe will become a staple in your household. It’s a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The combination of flavors is simply irresistible, and the versatility of the recipe allows you to customize it to your liking.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and get cooking! I’m confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do. And when you do try it, please, please, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. I’d love to hear what you think, what variations you tried, and how you served it. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me create even better recipes for you in the future. Don’t be shy let me know how it turned out! Happy cooking! I can’t wait to hear all about your culinary adventures with this delightful dish. Let’s get cooking and create some delicious memories together!

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken: The Ultimate Flavor-Packed Recipe

Quick and easy Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken, ready in under 30 minutes! Tender chicken breasts seared to golden perfection, then simmered in a bright and savory lemon garlic butter sauce. A versatile and crowd-pleasing dish perfect for any weeknight.

Prep Time10 minutes

Cook Time20 minutes

Total Time30

Category: Dinner

Yield: 4 servings

Save This Recipe

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1/4 teaspoon dried thyme

1/4 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup chicken broth

1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (from about 1-2 lemons)

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

1 tablespoon heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Lemon wedges

Fresh parsley sprigs

Instructions

Pound the Chicken: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch.

Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Generously sprinkle this mixture over both sides of the chicken breasts, pressing lightly to adhere.

Heat the Oil: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Sear the Chicken: Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the hot skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Remove the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Cover it loosely with foil to keep it warm while you prepare the sauce.

Melt the Butter: In the same skillet (without cleaning it), melt the butter over medium heat.

Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.

Add the Chicken Broth and Lemon Juice: Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.

Simmer and Reduce: Let the sauce simmer for about 3-5 minutes, or until it has slightly reduced and thickened.

Stir in the Parsley and Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and red pepper flakes (if using).

Add Heavy Cream (Optional): If you want a richer sauce, stir in the heavy cream.

Season to Taste: Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.

Return the Chicken to the Skillet: Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet with the lemon garlic butter sauce.

Coat the Chicken: Spoon the sauce over the chicken breasts, making sure they are well coated.

Simmer Briefly: Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Plate the Chicken: Transfer the lemon garlic butter chicken to plates.

Spoon the Sauce: Spoon the remaining sauce over the chicken.

Garnish (Optional): Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh parsley sprigs, if desired.

Serve Immediately: Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as rice, pasta, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.

Notes

Pounding the chicken to an even thickness helps it cook evenly and quickly. Don’t skip this step!

A hot skillet will help create a nice sear on the chicken.

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter.

Scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet adds a ton of flavor to the sauce!

Remember that the chicken is already seasoned, so taste the sauce before adding too much salt.

Chicken Thighs: You can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this recipe. They will take a bit longer to cook, about 6-8 minutes per side.

Wine: For a richer flavor, add 1/4 cup of dry white wine to the sauce along with the chicken broth and lemon juice.

Vegetables: Add some vegetables to the skillet while the chicken is cooking, such as asparagus, broccoli, or bell peppers.

Spicy: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes for a spicier dish. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken seasoning.

Herbs: Experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary, sage, or chives.

Dairy-Free: Omit the butter and use olive oil instead. You can also use a dairy-free cream alternative.

Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and sauce separately ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator and reheat them when ready to serve.

Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken: The Ultimate Flavor-Packed Recipe