Lemon Chicken with BEST Lemon Butter Sauce

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner that the whole family will love, you’ve come to the right place! This Lemon Chicken with BEST Lemon Butter Sauce is not just any chicken dish; it’s one of those meals that feels special but is super easy to whip up in just 30 minutes. The juicy chicken, coated in a crispy parmesan crust, paired with a rich lemon butter sauce, makes this recipe a showstopper for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

I adore this recipe because it’s comforting yet bright and fresh, thanks to the zesty lemon. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy dinner at home or planning for a weekend get-together with friends, this lemon chicken is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: You can have this meal on the table in just 30 minutes, perfect for those busy evenings.
• Family favorite: The crispy chicken and creamy lemon sauce are sure to please even the pickiest eaters!
• Simple ingredients: Made with wholesome pantry staples, you won’t need to make a special trip to the grocery store.
• Versatile dish: Great on its own or served with your favorite sides like rice or veggies.
• Flavor explosion: The combination of lemon and garlic brings an exciting punch that makes every bite delightful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Lemon Chicken with BEST Lemon Butter Sauce uses simple and wholesome ingredients. You probably have most of them already in your kitchen! Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:

For the Chicken

• 1 1/2 lb chicken breast (2 large, patted dry with paper towels)
• 1 Tbsp olive oil (to sauté)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 garlic clove (minced)
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
• 3 Tbsp all-purpose flour

For the Sauce

• 8 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper

For Garnish

• 1 Tbsp parsley (to garnish, optional)
• 1/2 lemon (sliced for garnish, optional)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and make it your own:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey cutlets or even tofu for a vegetarian option!
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or cherry tomatoes while cooking the chicken for extra nutrients.
• Change up the cheese: Try using grated mozzarella or nutritional yeast if you’re dairy-free.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick of heat!

How to Make Lemon Chicken with BEST Lemon Butter Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting each chicken breast in half lengthwise. This helps them cook evenly and quickly. Use a meat mallet to lightly beat them until they are an even thickness. This step ensures that every piece cooks perfectly without drying out.

Step 2: Create Your Coatings

In one bowl, whisk together your eggs, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. In another bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese and flour. Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture first, letting any excess drip off before dredging it in the Parmesan mixture. This creates that deliciously crispy coating we all love!

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat enough olive oil in a large non-stick skillet to cover the bottom over medium heat. Once hot, add your coated chicken pieces. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165˚F. If they brown too quickly, reduce the heat slightly—patience is key here!

Step 4: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

While your chicken is cooking, melt unsalted butter and minced garlic together in another saucepan until fragrant—oh my goodness, that smell is heavenly! Then stir in chicken broth and fresh lemon juice along with some black pepper. Let it simmer gently for about two minutes so all those flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Once your chicken is cooked through and crispy, pour that luscious lemon butter sauce over it while turning each piece to coat well. Garnish with fresh lemon slices and chopped parsley if desired. Serve it up warm—this dish is bound to become a new favorite at your dinner table!

Pro Tips for Making Lemon Chicken with BEST Lemon Butter Sauce

This dish is not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare. Here are some pro tips to ensure your lemon chicken turns out perfectly every time!

• Pound the Chicken Evenly: Using a meat mallet to pound the chicken to an even thickness ensures it cooks uniformly, avoiding dryness on the thinner edges while waiting for the thicker parts to cook through.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and lemon juice will elevate the flavor of your sauce significantly compared to dried or bottled versions. The freshness adds brightness that complements the chicken beautifully.
• Monitor Cooking Temperature: Keeping an eye on your skillet’s heat is crucial; if it’s too hot, you risk burning the outside of the chicken before it’s cooked through. A medium heat allows for a crispy crust while ensuring thorough cooking.
• Make Extra Sauce: If you love a good sauce, consider doubling the butter sauce recipe! This way, you have plenty to drizzle over your side dishes too.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving helps retain its juices, making each bite tender and succulent.

How to Serve Lemon Chicken with BEST Lemon Butter Sauce

Presenting your Lemon Chicken with BEST Lemon Butter Sauce beautifully can make all the difference at the dining table. Here are some ideas to inspire your serving style!

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: Finely chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that enhances both presentation and flavor.
• Lemon Slices: Thin slices of lemon not only look beautiful when arranged alongside or on top of the chicken but also provide an extra zing if squeezed over just before eating.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer a comforting balance to the zesty flavors of lemon chicken.
• Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus provides a crisp texture and vibrant color that complements the dish without overpowering it.
• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette pairs wonderfully, adding a nutritious element that rounds out your meal.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Drizzled with olive oil and roasted until caramelized, these Brussels sprouts add an earthy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the bright acidity of the lemon sauce.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in hand, you’re all set to create an unforgettable meal centered around this delightful Lemon Chicken recipe! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Lemon Chicken with BEST Lemon Butter Sauce is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance, making it a great option for your busy week ahead.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place the chicken and sauce in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Freezing

• Cool the chicken completely.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.
• Alternatively, microwave on medium power until heated through, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delightful recipe.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! This lemon butter sauce pairs well with turkey or even firm fish like salmon. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

What can I serve with Lemon Chicken with BEST Lemon Butter Sauce?

This dish goes wonderfully with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. It’s versatile enough to complement many sides!

How do I ensure my Lemon Chicken stays juicy?

Pounding the chicken to an even thickness helps it cook evenly. Also, don’t overcook it; using a meat thermometer can help you reach that perfect 165˚F.

Can I make the lemon butter sauce ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat before pouring over your cooked chicken.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this flavorful Lemon Chicken with BEST Lemon Butter Sauce! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with zest and warmth that you’ll want to share with loved ones. Enjoy every bite and feel free to experiment with your favorite sides. Happy cooking!