Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this lemon butter chicken! It’s like sunshine on a plate—so bright and zesty, you can’t help but smile when you take a bite. This dish is not only bursting with flavor but it also comes together in a snap! Seriously, from start to finish, you can whip it up in around 40 minutes. I love making this recipe on busy weeknights when I want something comforting yet impressive. The buttery lemon sauce clings to the chicken and makes it so juicy and tender. It’s become a staple in my kitchen, and every time I serve it, I get requests for the recipe! Trust me, once you try it, you’ll see why it’s one of my favorites.
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful lemon butter chicken. Each ingredient plays a key role in bringing the dish to life, so let’s make sure you have everything ready!
- 4 chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless for the best texture and flavor.
- 1/4 cup butter: Unsalted works best, as it allows you to control the saltiness of the dish.
- 1/4 cup lemon juice: Freshly squeezed gives the brightest flavor—don’t skimp on this!
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a lovely aromatic depth; be sure to chop it finely.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing the flavors of the chicken.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground is ideal for that extra kick.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: For garnishing, it adds a pop of color and freshness!
How to Prepare Lemon Butter Chicken
Now, let’s get cooking! This process is super straightforward and trust me, you’ll love how quickly everything comes together. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious lemon butter chicken ready to impress!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating the oven is crucial because it helps the chicken cook evenly and become beautifully juicy. So, don’t skip this part!
Step 2: Melt the Butter
Next, grab a skillet and melt your 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat. Keep an eye on it and let it gently melt until it’s all liquid and bubbly—this usually takes just a couple of minutes. You don’t want it to brown; we’re looking for that lovely melted butter that will create the base of our sauce!
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Once the butter is melted, it’s time to add the minced garlic. Toss it in and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. You’ll start to smell that wonderful aroma filling your kitchen—yum! Just make sure not to let it burn; we want it nicely softened, not crispy.
Step 4: Prepare the Lemon Butter Mixture
Now, stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together well so that the flavors combine beautifully. This lemon butter mixture is going to be the star of the show, so make sure it’s nice and well-blended!
Step 5: Arrange the Chicken
Time to place your chicken breasts in a baking dish! Make sure they’re laid out evenly, as this will help them cook uniformly. I usually give them a little space to breathe but not too much—just enough for the sauce to drape over them later.
Step 6: Pour the Mixture
Grab your lemon butter mixture and pour it all over the chicken. Make sure to cover each piece evenly so that every bite is packed with flavor. You’ll see the butter pooling around—oh, it’s going to be so good!
Step 7: Bake the Chicken
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center. I like to use a meat thermometer—aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for perfectly cooked chicken.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once your chicken is out of the oven, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for that beautiful pop of color. Serve it up with some fluffy rice or sautéed veggies to soak up all that delicious lemon butter sauce. Enjoy every single bite, my friend!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk about what you’re getting in each serving of this delightful lemon butter chicken! These values are estimates and can vary a bit depending on the specific brands or ingredients you use, but here’s a good breakdown for you:
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
This dish is not only satisfying but also packs a protein punch, making it a fantastic option for a quick dinner without compromising on flavor or nutrition. Enjoy knowing you’re serving up something delicious and nourishing!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This lemon butter chicken comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor.
- Flavor-Packed: The buttery lemon sauce is a delightful combination that keeps the chicken juicy and adds a zesty kick to every bite.
- Healthy Option: With lean chicken breast and fresh ingredients, this dish is a nutritious choice that’s high in protein and gluten-free!
- Versatile: Serve it with rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables—this recipe pairs beautifully with whatever you have on hand.
- Impressive Presentation: Garnished with fresh parsley, this dish looks as good as it tastes, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s ensure your lemon butter chicken turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some pro tips I’ve picked up along the way that will elevate your dish and make it unforgettable:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and garlic truly make a difference in flavor. If you can squeeze it fresh, do it! You’ll notice the brightness shining through in every bite.
- Don’t Overcook: Chicken can dry out quickly, so keep an eye on it as it bakes. Using a meat thermometer is your best friend here—165°F (74°C) is the magic number for juicy chicken!
- Customize the Flavor: Feel free to adjust the amount of lemon juice or garlic to suit your taste. Want it zippier? Add a touch more lemon! Prefer a milder flavor? Just dial it back a bit.
- Let it Rest: After baking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, making every bite tender and moist.
- Experiment with Herbs: Don’t hesitate to mix in other herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile. They’ll blend beautifully with the lemon butter sauce!
These little tweaks will help you achieve that restaurant-quality dish right at home. Trust me, once you nail it, you’ll be making this lemon butter chicken on repeat!
FAQ Section
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work just as well, and they tend to be even juicier. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the lemon butter mixture and marinate the chicken in it for a few hours in the fridge before baking. Just make sure to bring it back to room temperature before popping it in the oven for even cooking.
Is this lemon butter chicken gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is gluten-free! Just be sure to check any additional ingredients you might use, like sides, to ensure they’re gluten-free as well.
What can I serve with lemon butter chicken?
You can serve it with a variety of sides! I love pairing it with fluffy rice, roasted vegetables, or a light salad. The lemon butter sauce is perfect for drizzling over anything you choose!
Can I freeze leftovers?
Definitely! Just let the chicken cool completely, then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It should keep well for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Lemon Butter Chicken: 8 Steps to Zesty Perfection
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A flavorful lemon butter chicken dish that is quick to prepare.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Place chicken breasts in a baking dish.
- Pour lemon butter mixture over the chicken.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Serve with rice or vegetables.
- Adjust lemon juice according to taste.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: lemon butter chicken, chicken recipes, easy chicken dinner