Golden, juicy, and cloaked in a zesty, buttery glaze, this Lemon Butter Chicken is your new weeknight hero. It’s a skillet-to-table wonder that’s rich in flavor and surprisingly quick to prepare. Each bite bursts with citrusy brightness balanced by the savory richness of garlic and herbs.

Perfect for those nights when you crave something comforting yet vibrant, this dish doesn’t hold back on flavor. Whether you’re feeding family or entertaining guests, Lemon Butter Chicken is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser with minimal fuss.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs both work beautifully in this recipe. Chicken breasts cook quickly and offer a leaner option, while thighs bring a little more moisture and flavor. Be sure to pound them to even thickness so they cook uniformly.

Ingredients for the Lemon Butter Chicken

Chicken breasts – The base of this recipe, providing lean protein and a juicy bite when seared to perfection.

Salt and pepper – Simple seasoning that enhances the flavor of the chicken without overpowering it.

Paprika – Adds color and a subtle smokiness that balances the brightness of the lemon.

Olive oil – For searing the chicken to a golden crust without drying it out.

Butter – The star of the sauce, it creates a velvety, rich base that melds perfectly with the lemon.

Garlic – Infuses the butter with warm, aromatic flavor that enhances every bite.

Fresh lemon juice – Adds tangy brightness that lifts the richness of the butter.

Honey – Just a touch to balance the lemon’s tartness with sweetness.

Fresh parsley – A finishing touch that adds color and a pop of herbal freshness.

How To Make the Lemon Butter Chicken

Step 1: Season and Sear

Pat your chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter in the same skillet. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Pour in lemon juice and honey, stirring to combine.

Step 3: Finish and Glaze

Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes so the chicken soaks in all that luscious flavor. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

How to Serve and Store This Zesty Chicken

Serve this Lemon Butter Chicken straight from the skillet for a rustic, family-style dinner. It’s best enjoyed hot, but leftovers store wonderfully. Keep any extras in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to maintain its juiciness.

What to Serve With Lemon Butter Chicken?

Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes

Creamy and garlicky, these are perfect for soaking up all that extra sauce.

Roasted Asparagus

The crisp-tender texture and earthy flavor make a great contrast to the rich chicken.

Wild Rice Pilaf

A fluffy, nutty base that balances the brightness of the lemon.

Sauteed Spinach with Garlic

Quick, easy, and keeps the meal fresh and green.

Crusty Bread or Dinner Rolls

Ideal for mopping up the buttery lemon sauce.

Caesar Salad

For a cool and crunchy side with a punch of flavor.

Creamy Polenta

Soft and smooth, it complements the chicken without stealing the spotlight.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you’re all about bold and comforting flavors, check out these other favorites:

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe if you love creamy, romantic dishes.
Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni for a satisfying pasta night.
Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts when you want something rich and deeply savory.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole for a nostalgic baked twist.
Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders if you’re craving crisp and zesty finger food.

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Let me know how your Lemon Butter Chicken turns out! Did you go for chicken breasts or thighs? Add extra garlic or lemon? I’m all ears for your twists and tips.

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Lemon Butter Chicken

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Author: Lorenzo Devereaux
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 2 servings

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Description

Looking for a weeknight dinner that’s easy, elegant, and bursting with flavor? This Lemon Butter Chicken is your answer. With juicy seared chicken coated in a silky garlic lemon butter sauce, this dish checks all the boxes: quick to make, full of flavor, and impressive on the plate. It’s perfect for family meals, date nights, or any night when you need comforting but not heavy food ideas. Great for those hunting easy dinner recipes, quick chicken dishes, or weeknight dinner inspiration that feels special without much effort.