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Lemon Butter Chicken

Lemon Butter Chicken - Recipes From Chef

When I first stumbled upon lemon butter chicken, I knew I had found something special. Imagine tender chicken breasts enveloped in a creamy, zesty sauce that transports you to sun-kissed Mediterranean shores, where lemons hang heavy on the trees. 
This dish marries simplicity with vibrant flavor, making it a weeknight favorite and a spectacular choice for entertaining guests. Through trial and error, and creativity in the kitchen, I’ve perfected this recipe. Each bite speaks of warmth, comfort, and a hint of adventure.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 360
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/3 cup plain all-purpose flour for dredging
  • Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (pounded to 1/3-inch thickness 5 oz
  • 4 Tbsp unsalted butter divided into pats
  • 1 1/2 tsp freshly minced garlic
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth or stock
  • 3 Tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1/2 tsp finely grated lemon zest
  • 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard for extra depth
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional for heat
  • 1 1/2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley for garnish, optional

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
  1. Start by tenderizing your chicken breasts. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound them to an even thickness of 1/3-inch. This step ensures the chicken cooks evenly. Season both sides with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Dredge the chicken lightly in flour, shaking off excess.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
  1. In a large skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken. Sear for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
  1. In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, pour in the chicken broth, stirring well to loosen any flavorful bits stuck to the pan.
Step 4: Add the Flavorings
  1. Now it’s time for the stars of the show—lemon juice, lemon zest, and Dijon mustard. Stir to combine, letting the sauce simmer for about one minute. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
Step 5: Combine Chicken with Sauce
  1. Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over it. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, letting it melt into the sauce. Cook for another minute, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
  1. Once everything is combined and heated through, garnish with freshly chopped parsley if using. Serve warm over your choice of side dishes for a delightful meal!

Notes

  • Use Fresh Lemons: Fresh juice and zest make a remarkable difference. Bottled lemon juice can’t compare in flavor.
  • Don’t Rush the Searing: Getting a good sear on the chicken adds depth to the flavor.
  • Adjust to Taste: Feel free to tweak the amount of lemon juice and garlic according to your preference.
  • Add Veggies: Incorporate some sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes as a marvelous addition to the dish.
  • Garnish Creatively: Fresh herbs like thyme or oregano can add another layer of flavor to your dish when used as a garnish.