
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken: A Zesty and Creamy Delight
Introduction
Transform a simple chicken dinner into a gourmet experience with this Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken recipe. Juicy chicken breasts, pan-seared to golden perfection, are smothered in a luscious lemon garlic butter sauce. This dish is quick, easy, and packed with flavor—perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 large chicken breasts (about 1 lb total)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
For the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1-2 lemons)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional for a creamy sauce)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create 4 thin fillets.
- In a shallow bowl, mix the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Dredge each chicken fillet in the flour mixture, shaking off the excess.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
- Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Deglaze the skillet with chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits for extra flavor.
- Stir in the lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and butter, letting the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- If using, add the heavy cream for a richer, creamier sauce, and stir until well combined.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Return the chicken fillets to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them to coat evenly.
- Simmer for 2 minutes to reheat the chicken and blend the flavors.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Tips for Success
- Tender Chicken: Pound the chicken fillets to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
- Adjust Acidity: Add more lemon juice for a tangier sauce or more cream for a milder flavor.
- Perfect Pairings: Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes for a no-fuss dinner.
- Bright and Flavorful: The zesty lemon and garlic butter sauce is irresistible.
- Customizable: Add capers, spinach, or mushrooms to elevate the dish further.
Conclusion
This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken is a flavorful and elegant dish that’s incredibly easy to make. With juicy chicken and a creamy, tangy sauce, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Try this recipe today and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your home!