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This easy lemon chicken recipe is a quick and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you’re craving juicy chicken in a buttery lemon sauce or looking for a simple yet elegant dish to impress, this recipe delivers bright, fresh flavors with minimal effort. Serve it with rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables for a satisfying dinner.
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Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Why You’ll Love Making It
- Bright & Buttery Sauce – A rich, lemony sauce coats the chicken perfectly, balancing fresh citrus with a buttery finish.
- Quick & Effortless – Ready in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Minimal Ingredients – Uses pantry staples, so you won’t need a long grocery list.
- Versatile Serving Options – Pairs well with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted veggies.
- Great for Meal Prep – Reheats well, making it perfect for leftovers.
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Halved lengthwise to create four thinner cutlets for even cooking.
- Salt & pepper, to taste – Enhances flavor and balances the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a subtle garlicky depth without overpowering.
- Flour, for dredging – Lightly coats the chicken, creating a golden crust and helping to thicken the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – Used for searing the chicken, adding a slight crispness.
- 3 tablespoons butter, divided – Brings a smooth, rich texture to the sauce.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth – Forms the base of the sauce, adding depth of flavor.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice + zest of 1/2 lemon – Fresh lemon juice and zest brighten the dish with citrusy tang.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional, to taste) – A fresh garnish that adds color and a mild herbaceous touch.
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Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create four thinner cutlets. This ensures even cooking and keeps the meat tender. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Lightly coat each piece in flour, shaking off the excess—this will help achieve a golden crust and thicken the sauce.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil along with 1 tablespoon of butter. Once the butter is melted and sizzling, add the chicken. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Remove from the pan and set aside on a plate.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
In the same pan, add the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and let the sauce come to a gentle simmer. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—this adds extra flavor. Let the sauce bubble for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Step 4: Finish the Dish
Return the chicken to the pan, nestling it into the sauce. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes, spooning the sauce over the chicken to ensure it’s well-coated. The sauce should be slightly thickened and glossy. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley, if using. Serve immediately with your choice of side dishes such as roasted potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well in this recipe. They may require a slightly longer cooking time, so check for doneness by ensuring they reach 165°F (74°C) internally.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook the chicken ahead of time and store it separately from the sauce. Reheat both together in a skillet before serving for the best texture.
