Tasty Lemon Butter Chicken Recipe

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 Lemon butter chicken is a classic dish that's both rich and refreshing. The tanginess of lemon pairs beautifully with the creamy butter sauce, creating a mouthwatering combination. It's a versatile recipe, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Serve it with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables to round out the meal.

Ingredients

To serve 4, you'll need:

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour (for coating)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter

For the Sauce:

  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth (or stock)
  • ½ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
  • 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for slight sweetness)
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • ¼ cup heavy cream (optional, for creaminess)
  • Lemon slices and chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

  1. In a shallow dish, mix flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. Coat the chicken breasts in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.

2. Cook the Chicken

  1. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

3. Make the Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in chicken broth, lemon juice, honey, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to reduce slightly.
  4. For a creamier sauce, stir in heavy cream and simmer for another 2 minutes.

4. Combine and Serve

  1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top.
  2. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until the chicken absorbs the flavors.
  3. Garnish with lemon slices and parsley before serving.

Tips for Success

  • Tender Chicken: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for faster and even cooking.
  • Balance Flavors: Adjust the amount of lemon juice or honey based on your preference for tanginess or sweetness.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Substitute flour with almond flour or cornstarch for a gluten-free version.

Serving Suggestions

Pair lemon butter chicken with:

  • Mashed potatoes or buttered noodles
  • Steamed asparagus, green beans, or roasted vegetables
  • A light garden salad or garlic bread

Enjoy this delightful dish, where every bite is packed with zesty, buttery goodness!