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Lemon Butter Chicken Recipe

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This Lemon Butter Chicken features tender, juicy chicken breasts cooked in a rich, buttery lemon sauce with hints of garlic and herbs. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes and pairs perfectly with pasta, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth (or dry white wine)
  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lemon slices (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Season the Chicken:

    • Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
    • Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  2. Sear the Chicken:

    • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
    • Add the chicken and sear for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp should be 165°F/74°C). Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce:

    • In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium.
    • Add butter and let it melt, then stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
    • Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
    • Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and thyme. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly reduced.
  4. Finish Cooking:

    • Return the chicken to the pan and spoon the sauce over the top.
    • Simmer for 2-3 more minutes until the chicken is fully coated and heated through.
  5. Serve:

    • Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices.
    • Serve with your favorite sides like pasta, mashed potatoes, or steamed veggies.

Notes

  • Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier option.
  • Add ¼ cup heavy cream to the sauce for a creamy version.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.