Looking for a weeknight dinner that’s simple yet full of flavor? This Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce is exactly what your tastebuds crave — juicy pan-seared chicken breasts bathed in a silky, buttery lemon sauce that’s bright, rich, and packed with flavor.
It’s restaurant-worthy but incredibly easy, and you only need one skillet to make it happen. Serve it with mashed potatoes, pasta, or roasted veggies for a balanced, elegant meal that feels like something you’d order out.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🍋 Bursting with real lemon flavor
- 🧈 Creamy, velvety butter sauce
- ⏱️ Ready in 30 minutes — perfect for weeknights
- 🍗 Juicy chicken with a beautiful golden crust
- 🥘 One-skillet recipe for easy cleanup
Ingredients (U.S. Standard Measurements – Serves 4)
For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced horizontally to make 4 cutlets)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 1–2 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream (optional, for richness)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally to create thin cutlets. Season with salt and pepper, then dredge lightly in flour, shaking off excess.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and butter. Sear chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and cover to keep warm.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons butter. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Step 4: Finish the Sauce
Add cream (if using), stir, and season with salt and pepper. Return chicken to the pan and spoon sauce over it. Simmer for 1–2 minutes more.
Step 5: Serve
Serve chicken with extra sauce spooned on top. Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon slices. Pairs perfectly with rice, pasta, or crusty bread.
Serving Ideas
- 🍝 Over angel hair pasta or linguine
- 🥔 With mashed or roasted potatoes
- 🥦 Alongside steamed broccoli or sautéed green beans
- 🍚 Spooned over lemon herb rice
- 🥖 With warm baguette to soak up the sauce
Tips & Variations
- 🧄 Use shallots instead of garlic for a milder taste
- 🌿 Add capers for a tangy twist (Lemon Chicken Piccata style!)
- 🧀 Stir in a bit of grated Parmesan for a cheesy note
- 🧈 Add a splash of white wine with the broth for extra depth
- 🐓 Swap in boneless chicken thighs for more flavor and tenderness
Nutrition Facts (Estimated per serving)
- Calories: 375
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
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