Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Sauce is a mouthwatering dish that combines tender, juicy chicken with a rich, buttery garlic sauce and a tangy hint of lemon. This recipe is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or an elegant meal to impress guests. The balance of flavors—savory garlic, creamy butter, and zesty lemon—makes it a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup (120g) all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons (60g) unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup (120ml) chicken broth
- 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream (optional, for a creamy sauce)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Dredge the chicken in flour, shaking off any excess. This step helps create a golden crust when cooked. - Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted and is sizzling, add the chicken breasts. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate. - Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. - Add the Lemon Elements:
Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping the bottom of the skillet to deglaze and incorporate the flavorful browned bits. Stir in the lemon zest for an extra burst of citrus flavor. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly. - Optional Creamy Twist:
If you prefer a creamy sauce, stir in the heavy cream at this stage. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. - Return the Chicken to the Skillet:
Place the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning the sauce over them to coat. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors. - Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the chicken with freshly chopped parsley. Serve the Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Sauce hot, paired with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Success:
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor; bottled juice may lack the same brightness.
- For even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before searing.
- Adjust the garlic and lemon quantities to suit your taste preferences.
This Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon Sauce is a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking. Whether you keep it light and zesty or add a creamy touch, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy the delightful harmony of flavors in every bite