Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken is a dish that never fails to impress, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The bright, zesty flavor of lemon combined with the rich, savory notes of garlic and butter creates a symphony of taste that dances on your palate. This recipe has roots in various culinary traditions, showcasing how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly extraordinary. I love how Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken is not only delicious but also incredibly convenient to prepare, making it a favorite among busy home cooks. The tender chicken, infused with the aromatic blend of lemon and garlic, offers a delightful texture that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Join me as we explore this mouthwatering recipe that has captured the hearts and taste buds of many!

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• Juice of 1 large lemon
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Chicken

1. **Season the Chicken**: Start by taking your chicken breasts and patting them dry with paper towels. This helps to get a nice sear on the chicken. Once dry, season both sides generously with salt and pepper. I like to use a good amount of salt to enhance the flavor of the chicken. 2. **Heat the Pan**: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil to shimmer but not smoke. This is crucial for getting that beautiful golden-brown crust on the chicken. 3. **Sear the Chicken**: Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook in batches. Sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on one side without moving it. This allows for a nice crust to form. 4. **Flip the Chicken**: After 5-7 minutes, flip the chicken breasts over and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes on the other side. The chicken should be golden brown and cooked through. To check for doneness, you can use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Making the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

5. **Melt the Butter**: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Let it melt, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon. These bits add incredible flavor to the sauce. 6. **Add Garlic and Herbs**: Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the minced garlic, dried thyme, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. Be careful here; burnt garlic can turn bitter. 7. **Deglaze the Pan**: Pour in 1/2 cup of chicken broth, stirring to combine and deglaze the pan. This will lift all those delicious bits stuck to the bottom. Let the mixture simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly. 8. **Add Lemon Juice and Zest**: Squeeze the juice of one large lemon into the sauce and add the lemon zest. Stir well to combine. The acidity from the lemon will brighten the sauce and complement the richness of the butter.

Bringing It All Together

9. **Return the Chicken to the Skillet**: Place the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for about 3-5 minutes. This allows the chicken to absorb some of that delicious lemon garlic flavor. 10. **Taste and Adjust**: Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You might want to add a pinch more salt or a squeeze of lemon juice, depending on your preference. 11. **Garnish and Serve**: Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Transfer the chicken to a serving platter, spooning the lemon garlic butter sauce over the top. Finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Serving Suggestions

12. **Pairing Options**: This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken is incredibly versatile. I love serving it with a side of steamed vegetables, like asparagus or broccoli, for a healthy option. You can also serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up all that delicious sauce. 13. **Storing Leftovers**: If you have any leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), let the chicken cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding

Conclusion:

In summary, this Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners with minimal effort and maximum flavor. The combination of zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and rich butter creates a mouthwatering dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can serve it alongside a fresh garden salad, creamy mashed potatoes, or even over a bed of fluffy rice to soak up all that delicious sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a splash of white wine for an extra layer of flavor or tossing in some seasonal vegetables like asparagus or green beans for a complete meal. The possibilities are endless, and I encourage you to make this recipe your own! I can’t wait for you to try this Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and experience the delightful burst of flavors for yourself. Once you do, please share your thoughts and any variations you come up with—I’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Happy cooking!

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