Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken is a dish that never fails to impress, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a cozy meal at home. The bright, zesty flavors of lemon combined with the rich, savory notes of garlic and butter create a symphony of taste that tantalizes the palate. This recipe has roots in various culinary traditions, showcasing how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly extraordinary.

What I love most about Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken is its incredible versatility. The tender, juicy chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, making it a go-to option for any occasion. Plus, the ease of preparation means you can whip it up on a busy weeknight or serve it to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s no wonder that this dish has become a favorite among home cooks and food enthusiasts alike. Join me as we dive into this delightful recipe that promises to elevate your dining experience!

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• Juice of 1 large lemon
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Chicken

1. **Season the Chicken**: Start by taking your chicken breasts and patting them dry with paper towels. This helps to get a nice sear on the chicken. Once dry, season both sides generously with salt and pepper. I like to use a good amount of salt to enhance the flavor of the chicken. 2. **Heat the Pan**: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil to shimmer but not smoke. This is the perfect temperature to get a nice golden crust on the chicken. 3. **Sear the Chicken**: Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook in batches. Sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on one side without moving it. This will help develop a beautiful golden crust. 4. **Flip the Chicken**: After 5-7 minutes, flip the chicken breasts over and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes on the other side. The chicken should be cooked through and have an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Making the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

5. **Melt the Butter**: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Let it melt completely, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These bits add incredible flavor to the sauce. 6. **Add Garlic and Herbs**: Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic, dried thyme, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. Be careful here; burnt garlic can turn bitter. 7. **Deglaze the Pan**: Pour in 1/2 cup of chicken broth, stirring to combine and deglaze the pan. This will lift all those delicious bits stuck to the bottom. Let the mixture simmer for about 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly. 8. **Add Lemon Juice and Zest**: Squeeze the juice of one large lemon into the sauce and add the lemon zest. Stir well to combine. The acidity from the lemon will brighten the sauce and complement the richness of the butter.

Bringing It All Together

9. **Return the Chicken to the Skillet**: Place the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for about 3-5 minutes. This allows the chicken to absorb some of that delicious lemon garlic flavor. 10. **Check for Doneness**: If you’re unsure whether the chicken is fully cooked, you can use a meat thermometer to check that it has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If it’s not quite there, let it simmer a bit longer. 11. **Garnish and Serve**: Once the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness.

Serving Suggestions

12. **Plate the Dish**: Serve the lemon garlic butter chicken over a bed of rice, pasta, or alongside roasted vegetables. The sauce is perfect for drizzling over your chosen side, so don’t forget to spoon some of that luscious sauce on top. 13. **Enjoy**: Sit down and enjoy your delicious lemon garlic butter chicken! The combination of flavors is sure to impress anyone you serve it to, and it’s a dish that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Storage and Reheating

14. **Storing Leftovers**: If you have any leftovers, let the chicken cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the

Conclusion:

In summary, this Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners with minimal effort and maximum flavor. The combination of zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and rich butter creates a mouthwatering dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can serve it alongside a fresh garden salad, creamy mashed potatoes, or even over a bed of fluffy rice to soak up all that delicious sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a splash of white wine for an extra layer of flavor or tossing in some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the dish even further. The possibilities are endless, and I encourage you to make this recipe your own! I can’t wait for you to try this Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and experience the delightful flavors for yourself. Once you do, please share your thoughts and any variations you come up with! Your feedback means the world to me, and I love hearing how you make each recipe uniquely yours. Happy cooking! Print