Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken: Prepare to be amazed! Imagine sinking your teeth into succulent, pan-seared chicken breasts, glistening with a vibrant, tangy, and utterly irresistible sauce. This isn't just dinner; it's an experience. I'm thrilled to share this recipe with you, a dish that has quickly become a weeknight staple in my home, and I'm confident it will become one in yours too.

While the exact origins of this particular combination are somewhat modern, the individual components boast rich histories. Garlic and lemon have been culinary staples for centuries, gracing tables from the Mediterranean to the Far East. Butter, of course, adds a luxurious richness that elevates any dish. The beauty of Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken lies in its simplicity and the harmonious blend of these classic flavors.

What makes this recipe so beloved? It's the perfect trifecta of taste, texture, and convenience. The bright, zesty lemon cuts through the richness of the butter, while the garlic adds a savory depth that keeps you coming back for more. The chicken is incredibly tender and juicy, and the sauce is so good you'll want to sop it up with crusty bread. Best of all, it's quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights when you crave a restaurant-quality meal without the fuss. Let's get cooking!

Ingredients:

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup lemon juice, freshly squeezed
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
1 lemon, sliced into rounds, for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Chicken:

Alright, let's get started with prepping our chicken. This is a crucial step to ensure it's tender and cooks evenly. I like to take a little extra time here to get it just right.

Pound the Chicken: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or in a large ziplock bag. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This helps the chicken cook faster and more evenly, preventing some parts from drying out while others are still raw. Don't overdo it, though; you don't want to tear the chicken.
Season the Flour: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Whisk it all together until it's well combined. This seasoned flour will create a lovely, flavorful crust on the chicken.
Dredge the Chicken: Take each chicken breast and dredge it in the seasoned flour, making sure to coat it evenly on all sides. Shake off any excess flour. We want a light coating, not a thick, pasty one. This helps the chicken brown beautifully in the pan.

Cooking the Chicken:

Now for the fun part – cooking the chicken! This is where the magic happens, and we start building those delicious flavors.

Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully place the dredged chicken breasts in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. You might need to cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lower the temperature of the pan and result in steamed, rather than seared, chicken.
Cook Until Golden Brown: Cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until it's golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy. If the chicken is browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly. We want a nice sear without burning the flour.
Remove and Set Aside: Once the chicken is cooked through, 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:

This sauce is the star of the show! It's incredibly easy to make and adds so much flavor to the chicken. The combination of lemon, garlic, and butter is simply irresistible.

Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 4 tablespoons of butter. Melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
Add 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 are packed with flavor and will add depth to the sauce.
Reduce the Sauce: Let the sauce simmer for about 3-5 minutes, or until it has slightly reduced and thickened. This will concentrate the flavors and create a richer sauce.
Finish with Butter: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until it's melted and the sauce is smooth and glossy. This adds richness and a beautiful sheen to the sauce.

Bringing It All Together:

Now it's time to combine the chicken and the sauce for the final touch. This is where all the flavors meld together to create a truly delicious dish.

Return Chicken to Skillet: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet with the lemon garlic butter sauce.
Coat the Chicken: Spoon the sauce over the chicken, making sure to coat it evenly. You can also gently turn the chicken in the sauce to ensure it's well coated.
Simmer Briefly: Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for a minute or two, allowing the flavors to meld together. This also helps to reheat the chicken if it has cooled down slightly.

Serving and Garnishing:

Presentation is key! A little garnish can elevate the dish and make it even more appealing. Plus, fresh herbs add a burst of flavor.

Garnish: Sprinkle the chicken with chopped fresh parsley. This adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
Serve: Serve the Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken immediately. It's delicious served over rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or with a side of roasted vegetables.
Optional Garnish: For an extra touch, garnish with lemon slices. This adds a visual appeal and reinforces the lemon flavor.

Tips and Variations:

Here are a few extra tips and ideas to customize this recipe to your liking. Feel free to experiment and make it your own!

Add Capers: For a briny twist, add 1-2 tablespoons of capers to the sauce along with the chicken broth and lemon juice.
Use White Wine: Substitute 1/4 cup of dry white wine for the chicken broth for a richer, more complex flavor.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
Creamy Sauce: Stir in a tablespoon or two of heavy cream at the end for a creamier sauce.
Make it Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to dredge the chicken.
Bone-In Chicken: You can also use bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Make sure the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear when pierced with a fork.
Vegetable Options: Serve with asparagus, green beans, or broccoli for a complete and healthy meal.

Make Ahead Instructions:

Want to get a head start on dinner? Here's how to prepare this dish in advance:

Dredge the Chicken: You can dredge the chicken in the seasoned flour up to a few hours ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
Prepare the Sauce: The sauce can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently before adding the chicken.

Storage Instructions:

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

Calories: Approximately 350-400 per serving
Protein: 40-45 grams
Fat: 15-20 grams
Carbohydrates: 10-15 grams

Why This Recipe Works:

This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken recipe is a winner because it's:

Quick and Easy: It comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavorful: The combination of lemon, garlic, and butter creates a bright and delicious sauce that everyone will love.
Versatile: It can be served with a variety of sides, making it a complete and satisfying meal.
Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients and seasonings to suit your taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

Here are a few common mistakes to watch out for when making this recipe:

Overcrowding the Pan: Overcrowding the pan will lower the temperature and result in steamed, rather than seared, chicken. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary.
Burning the Garlic: Garlic burns easily, so be sure to sauté it over medium heat and watch it carefully.
Overcooking the

Conclusion:
This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken isn't just another recipe; it's a flavor explosion waiting to happen in your kitchen! From the zesty brightness of the lemon to the savory depth of the garlic and the richness of the butter, every bite is a symphony of tastes that will leave you craving more. I truly believe this is a must-try dish for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners or impress guests with minimal effort. It's quick, it's easy, and most importantly, it's absolutely delicious. But don't just take my word for it! The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Looking for serving suggestions? I personally love serving this Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up all that glorious sauce. For a lighter option, try pairing it with roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or a vibrant green salad. The possibilities are endless! And if you're feeling adventurous, why not experiment with some variations? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, or incorporate some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra layer of aromatic complexity. You could even try using bone-in chicken thighs for a richer, more flavorful experience. Consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce for an even more decadent flavor profile. Don't be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own! This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken is truly a winner. It's the kind of dish that becomes a staple in your household, one that you'll turn to time and time again when you need a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's also a fantastic way to introduce even the pickiest eaters to new and exciting flavors. The simplicity of the ingredients and the straightforward cooking process make it accessible to cooks of all skill levels. I've poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I'm so excited for you to try it. I'm confident that you'll love it as much as I do. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken. I can't wait to hear about your culinary adventures! Once you've tried this recipe, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. Let me know what you thought, what variations you tried, and what sides you paired it with. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me to continue creating recipes that you'll love. Don't forget to snap a photo of your finished dish and share it on social media using [Your Hashtag Here]. I'd love to see your creations! Happy cooking, and bon appétit! I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine. Remember, cooking should be fun and rewarding, and this Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken is the perfect recipe to remind you of that. Enjoy!

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken: The Ultimate Flavorful Recipe
Tender pan-seared chicken breasts in a bright lemon garlic butter sauce. Quick, easy, and perfect for weeknights!
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Category: Dinner
Yield: 4 servings
Save This Recipe
Ingredients

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

4 tablespoons olive oil, divided

6 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

4 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup chicken broth

1/4 cup lemon juice, freshly squeezed

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

1 lemon, sliced into rounds, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

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

Season the Flour: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Whisk it all together until it's well combined.

Dredge the Chicken: Take each chicken breast and dredge it in the seasoned flour, making sure to coat it evenly on all sides. Shake off any excess flour.

Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully place the dredged chicken breasts in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.

Cook Until Golden Brown: Cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until it's golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy. If the chicken is browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly.

Remove and Set Aside: Once the chicken is cooked through, 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.

Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 4 tablespoons of butter. Melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

Add 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.

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

Finish with Butter: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until it's melted and the sauce is smooth and glossy.

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

Coat the Chicken: Spoon the sauce over the chicken, making sure to coat it evenly. You can also gently turn the chicken in the sauce to ensure it's well coated.

Simmer Briefly: Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for a minute or two, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Garnish: Sprinkle the chicken with chopped fresh parsley.

Serve: Serve the Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken immediately. It's delicious served over rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or with a side of roasted vegetables.

Optional Garnish: For an extra touch, garnish with lemon slices.

Notes

Add Capers: For a briny twist, add 1-2 tablespoons of capers to the sauce along with the chicken broth and lemon juice.

Use White Wine: Substitute 1/4 cup of dry white wine for the chicken broth for a richer, more complex flavor.

Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.

Creamy Sauce: Stir in a tablespoon or two of heavy cream at the end for a creamier sauce.

Make it Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to dredge the chicken.

Bone-In Chicken: You can also use bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Make sure the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear when pierced with a fork.

Vegetable Options: Serve with asparagus, green beans, or broccoli for a complete and healthy meal.

Make Ahead Instructions: You can dredge the chicken in the seasoned flour up to a few hours ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator until ready to cook. The sauce can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently before adding the chicken.

Storage Instructions: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.

Overcrowding the Pan: Overcrowding the pan will lower the temperature and result in steamed, rather than seared, chicken. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary.

Burning the Garlic: Garlic burns easily, so be sure to sauté it over medium heat and watch it carefully.

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken: The Ultimate Flavorful Recipe