Lemon Chicken Recipe (with Lemon Butter Sauce)

If you’re looking for a dish that bursts with flavor and is easy to prepare, then look no further than this Lemon Chicken Recipe (with Lemon Butter Sauce). This delightful dish combines tender chicken breasts with a zesty lemon sauce that is both refreshing and satisfying. The buttery garlic notes elevate the dish to something truly special, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a spot in your culinary repertoire!

Reasons to Love Lemon Chicken Recipe (with Lemon Butter Sauce)

This Lemon Chicken Recipe (with Lemon Butter Sauce) has so much going for it. Here are just a few reasons why you’ll fall in love with this dish:

• Bright and Fresh Flavors: The combination of lemon juice and garlic creates a vibrant sauce that enhances the chicken.
• Quick to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
• Versatile Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, from roasted vegetables to fluffy rice.
• Impressive Presentation: The garnish of parsley and lemon slices makes it visually appealing for any occasion.

The Ingredient Lineup

To create this delightful Lemon Chicken Recipe (with Lemon Butter Sauce), you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 ½ lb chicken breast (2 large), patted dry with paper towels
• 1 Tbsp olive oil, for sautéing
• 1 Tbsp parsley, to garnish (optional)
• ½ lemon, sliced for garnish (optional)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp ground black pepper
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 3 Tbsp all-purpose flour
• 8 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ¼ cup lemon juice
• ¼ cup chicken broth
• ¼ tsp ground black pepper

Before You Start: Equipment

Gathering the right equipment is essential for a smooth cooking experience. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Large skillet: For sautéing the chicken and making the sauce.
• Mixing bowls: To combine your ingredients.
• Whisk: For beating the eggs and mixing dry ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate measurements.
• Spatula or tongs: For flipping the chicken in the skillet.

Lemon Chicken Recipe (with Lemon Butter Sauce) — Do This Next

Now that you have all your ingredients and equipment ready, it’s time to cook! Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a nice golden crust. Season both sides of the chicken with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Step 2: Dredge the Chicken

In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and minced garlic. In another bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese and flour. Dip each piece of chicken first into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s well-coated, then dredge it in the Parmesan-flour mixture, shaking off any excess.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to low and add the unsalted butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the lemon juice and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the lemon butter sauce over the top. Allow it to heat through for a minute, then garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the burst of flavors!

Health-Conscious Tweaks

If you’re looking to make this Lemon Chicken Recipe (with Lemon Butter Sauce) a bit healthier, consider the following tweaks:

• Use Skinless Chicken: Opt for skinless chicken breasts to reduce fat content.
• Substitute Olive Oil: Instead of olive oil, try using a light cooking spray for sautéing.
• Reduce Butter: Use less butter in the sauce or substitute with a low-fat alternative.
• Whole Wheat Flour: Swap all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for added fiber.

What Could Go Wrong

While this Lemon Chicken Recipe (with Lemon Butter Sauce) is straightforward, here are a few potential pitfalls to watch for:

• Overcooking the Chicken: Keep an eye on the cooking time; overcooked chicken can become dry.
• Not Patting Dry: Failing to dry the chicken thoroughly can prevent proper browning.
• Burning the Garlic: Be careful not to burn the garlic when making the sauce; it can turn bitter.
• Too Much Sauce: If the sauce is too acidic, balance it with a bit more butter or broth.

Save It for Later

If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry! This Lemon Chicken Recipe (with Lemon Butter Sauce) can be stored for future meals. Here’s how:

• Refrigerate: Place leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container. It will last for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm up the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to keep it moist.

Reader Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and moisture. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

What can I serve with this lemon chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides including steamed vegetables, rice pilaf, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with pasta tossed in olive oil and garlic.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the lemon butter sauce ahead of time. Just reheat it gently before serving with the cooked chicken.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Make sure to use gluten-free chicken broth as well.

Next Up in Your Queue

As you explore more delicious recipes, consider adding these to your collection:

• Garlic Butter Shrimp
• Herb Roasted Vegetables
• Creamy Mushroom Pasta
• One-Pan Chicken Fajitas

Serve & Enjoy

This Lemon Chicken Recipe (with Lemon Butter Sauce) is sure to become a favorite in your household. Its bright flavors and simple preparation make it perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish will impress your family and friends alike. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share your experience and any variations you try!

With its refreshing zest and rich buttery sauce, this Lemon Chicken Recipe (with Lemon Butter Sauce) is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that will leave you craving more. Happy cooking!