Easy Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe

Lemon Chicken (with Lemon Butter Sauce) is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a tangy and rich sauce. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With its bright and refreshing flavors, this dish will surely impress your family and friends. The combination of zesty lemon juice and creamy butter creates an irresistible sauce that complements the juicy chicken beautifully. You’ll love how quickly this meal comes together—ideal for busy evenings when you still want a delicious homemade dinner. What’s more, this dish allows room for creativity; you can serve it over rice or alongside steamed vegetables for a wholesome meal. In this article, we will walk you through every step of creating this mouthwatering lemon chicken so you can enjoy it in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Chicken (with Lemon Butter Sauce)

• Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
• Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners

Ingredients for Lemon Chicken (with Lemon Butter Sauce)

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding
• Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice works best; it adds vibrant flavor compared to bottled alternatives
• Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of your dish

For the Sauce:

• Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to keep the overall dish from becoming too salty
• Cornstarch: Use cornstarch as a thickening agent in the sauce for a smooth consistency

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

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How to Make Lemon Chicken (with Lemon Butter Sauce)

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting the boneless skinless chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt one tablespoon of butter. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides—approximately five minutes per side—until fully cooked through.

Step 3: Remove and Rest

Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil. This resting period keeps the meat juicy while you prepare the sauce.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet used for cooking the chicken, add minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant. Pour in fresh lemon juice and chicken broth; stir well.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

Mix cornstarch with water in a small bowl until smooth. Gradually add this mixture into your skillet while stirring constantly until your sauce thickens—about three minutes.

Step 6: Finish with Butter

Remove from heat and whisk in remaining butter until melted into the sauce. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet; spoon sauce over it before serving.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
• Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
• Advanced Technique: For enhanced flavor, try marinating the ingredients overnight

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How to Serve Lemon Chicken (with Lemon Butter Sauce)

This Lemon Chicken (with Lemon Butter Sauce) is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• • • Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
    • Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
    • Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.

Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: You can marinate the chicken in the lemon butter sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This enhances the flavor and tenderness of the chicken.
• Storing: Leftover Lemon Chicken should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to three months.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, use a microwave on medium power for about three minutes, checking occasionally to ensure even heating.

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Suggestions for Lemon Chicken (with Lemon Butter Sauce)

Use Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients is crucial for making a delightful Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce. Fresh chicken breasts, lemons, and herbs will enhance the flavor and overall quality of your dish. Avoid using old or frozen chicken, as they can compromise the taste and texture. Additionally, opt for fresh lemons instead of bottled lemon juice, which often contains preservatives that can alter the flavor profile. Fresh garlic and parsley also contribute to a more vibrant sauce. By focusing on fresh ingredients, you ensure that each bite bursts with zesty flavor and brightness.

Don’t Overcook the Chicken

Overcooking your chicken can lead to dry and tough meat, ruining your Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce. Always monitor the cooking time closely. For optimal results, cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This temperature ensures that the chicken remains juicy while fully cooked. Using a meat thermometer is an excellent way to avoid guesswork. Remember that chicken will continue to cook slightly after being removed from heat, so consider taking it off just before it reaches the ideal temperature for best results.

Balance Flavors Carefully

Striking the right balance between acidity and richness is essential when preparing Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce. Too much lemon juice can overpower the dish, while insufficient seasoning may leave it bland. Start with a modest amount of lemon juice and gradually increase it according to your taste preferences. Don’t forget to season your dish well with salt and pepper to enhance all flavors present in your sauce. A dash of honey or sugar can also help round out acidity if you find it too sharp.

Serve Immediately

Serving Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce immediately after cooking ensures that you enjoy its fresh flavors at their peak. If you let it sit too long, the sauce may thicken or lose its shine, affecting both appearance and taste. To keep your dish warm while you set the table or prepare sides, consider placing it in a low oven (around 200°F/93°C) briefly. However, avoid prolonged sitting times as this will negatively impact texture and moisture levels.

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FAQs

What is the best way to store leftovers of Lemon Chicken?

To store leftover Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce effectively, allow it to cool down before transferring it into an airtight container. This prevents condensation from forming inside the container and keeps your chicken moist for longer periods. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for up to two months if you wish to save them longer. When reheating, use low heat in a skillet or oven to retain moisture without overcooking the chicken again.

Can I use other proteins besides chicken?

Absolutely! While this recipe focuses on chicken, you can easily substitute other proteins such as fish or shrimp for a delightful twist on Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce. Cooking times may vary depending on the protein choice; ensure fish is cooked through but still flaky, while shrimp should turn pink and opaque when done. Adjust lemon juice quantity according to your protein’s flavor profile for optimal results.

How do I make my sauce creamier?

If you’re looking for a creamier version of your Lemon Butter Sauce, consider adding heavy cream or sour cream after incorporating butter into your sauce mixture. This addition provides richness without overpowering the zesty lemon flavor inherent in this recipe. Stir gently over low heat until combined thoroughly; be careful not to let it boil since high heat can cause separation.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Preparing Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce ahead of time is possible but requires careful planning for best quality upon serving. You can marinate the chicken in lemon juice and spices several hours prior or even overnight for enhanced flavor absorption. However, it’s recommended to cook just before serving to maintain freshness and prevent drying out during storage.

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Conclusion for Lemon Chicken (with Lemon Butter Sauce)

In summary, achieving perfect Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce involves using fresh ingredients, avoiding overcooking, balancing flavors carefully, and serving immediately for maximum enjoyment. Proper storage techniques ensure that any leftovers remain delicious without compromising quality. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a casual dinner at home, following these suggestions will help you create a vibrant dish bursting with flavor that highlights the bright notes of lemon complemented by rich butter sauce!