Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Sauce is a rich and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with a buttery garlic sauce infused with the tangy brightness of lemon. This recipe is perfect for a comforting dinner or a special occasion, offering a balance of savory and zesty flavors. The sauce is silky and aromatic, making it ideal for pairing with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish is both elegant and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
- Chicken Breasts: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- All-Purpose Flour: ¼ cup for dredging
- Butter: 4 tablespoons, divided
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Chicken Broth: ½ cup
- Lemon Juice: Juice of 1 lemon
- Lemon Zest: 1 teaspoon
- Heavy Cream: ½ cup
- Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional Additions: Red pepper flakes for heat or grated Parmesan for extra richness
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Dredge the chicken lightly in flour, shaking off any excess. This helps create a golden crust and thickens the sauce.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of butter and the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Garlic:
- Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet.
- Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Make the Sauce:
- Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. These add flavor to the sauce.
- Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest, allowing the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and slowly whisk in the heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Combine and Finish:
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top.
- Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if desired.
- Serve:
- Transfer the chicken to a serving platter and pour the sauce over it.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. Pair with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips and Variations:
- Make Ahead: Prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat and add freshly cooked chicken when ready to serve.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with tofu or mushrooms for a meat-free version.
- Extra Flavor: Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for depth or sprinkle grated Parmesan on top before serving.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
This Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Sauce recipe is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that’s sure to become a favorite. Its creamy, tangy, and savory flavors make it a standout choice for any occasion. Enjoy!