If you’re craving something vibrant, comforting, and ridiculously easy to pull together, this Lemon Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Picture tender, juicy chicken pieces enveloped in a luscious sauce that boasts the brightness of fresh lemon and the deep richness of butter, all cooked in one pan for maximum flavor and minimal fuss. It’s that perfect marriage of simple ingredients creating an explosion of taste that’s impressive enough for guests but effortless enough for any weeknight dinner. Trust me, once you try this Lemon Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe, it will be hard to cook chicken any other way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Lemon Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe plays an essential role. From the gentle heat of paprika to the zing of fresh lemon zest, every component brings balance and brightness, creating a dish that’s flavorful, colorful, and delightfully aromatic.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs: Choose your favorite cut; chicken thighs stay juicier while breasts cook quickly and lean.
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter: Adds rich, creamy decadence to the sauce, elevating every bite.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps sear the chicken perfectly while adding a subtle fruity note.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a warm, inviting aroma and depth of flavor.
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon: The star ingredient that brightens the whole skillet with fresh, tangy brightness.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors seamlessly.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Provides just the right amount of spice without overpowering.
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional): Adds a subtle smokiness and warmth for complexity.
- 1–2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: A fragrant, colorful garnish that finishes the dish beautifully.
How to Make Lemon Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by generously seasoning your bite-sized chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, and paprika if you love a hint of smoky warmth. This simple step builds a flavorful foundation that ensures each bite is perfectly seasoned.
Step 2: Heat the Olive Oil
Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil not only prevents sticking but also helps you achieve that irresistible golden crust on the chicken.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add your seasoned chicken to the hot skillet in a single layer. Let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes to get a beautiful sear, then stir occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown, about 5 to 7 minutes.
Step 4: Set the Chicken Aside
Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside. This temporary separation lets you build the flavorful sauce without overcooking the chicken.
Step 5: Add Butter to the Skillet
Turn the heat down to medium and toss in the butter. This luscious addition will melt into the skillet and become the base for your sauce, offering silky texture and rich flavor.
Step 6: Sauté the Garlic
Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for 1 to 2 minutes until it’s fragrant and just beginning to turn golden—this step is where your kitchen starts to smell absolutely irresistible.
Step 7: Stir in Lemon
Pour in the fresh lemon juice and sprinkle the lemon zest into the skillet. Stir these into the garlic butter, letting the sauce simmer briefly to marry all those fresh, tangy, and buttery flavors into one sensational blend.
Step 8: Return Chicken and Coat
Now, add the chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together so each piece is generously coated in the lemon butter sauce. This ensures every bite bursts with that perfect zesty creaminess.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
Finish by sprinkling fresh parsley over the top. This simple but vibrant garnish not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh herbal brightness that complements the rich lemon butter perfectly. Serve immediately and bask in the compliments!
How to Serve Lemon Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a must for that pop of green and fresh flavor, but don’t stop there—try adding a few thin lemon slices or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. These small touches make your presentation stunning and your flavors even more vibrant.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides that absorb the luscious lemon butter sauce. Consider fluffy rice, buttery mashed potatoes, or even crusty bread to soak up every bit of the skillet sauce. For a lighter touch, steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad complement its richness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the chicken over a bed of creamy polenta or buttery egg noodles for a comforting twist. For an elegant option, plate the chicken alongside herbed quinoa and drizzle extra lemon butter sauce on the side to impress your dinner guests with both taste and style.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover Lemon Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making it a perfect next-day lunch or dinner option.
Freezing
If you want to plan ahead, this recipe freezes beautifully. Place the cooked and cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container, and it will keep well for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To bring your leftovers back to life, gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Adding a splash of water or broth can help loosen the sauce and keep the chicken tender and moist as it warms.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in the Lemon Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe because they stay juicy and tender. Just keep the cooking time similar, and you’ll get rich, flavorful bites every time.
Is paprika necessary?
While paprika is optional, it adds a pleasant smoky warmth and a subtle depth to the dish. If you don’t have it on hand, you can skip it or substitute with a pinch of smoked paprika or mild chili powder for a slight variation.
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Fresh lemon juice and zest are key to capturing the bright, vibrant character of the dish, but if you’re in a pinch, bottled lemon juice can work. Just use a little less and avoid anything with added preservatives or flavors for the best taste.
What’s the best skillet to use?
A heavy-bottomed skillet like cast iron or stainless steel works best to give you that perfect sear on the chicken and to evenly cook the sauce. Nonstick pans can be used but might not brown the chicken as beautifully.
Can I add vegetables to the skillet?
Definitely! Adding quick-cooking vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus towards the end of cooking can make this dish even more vibrant and nutritious. Just toss them in right before returning the chicken to the pan.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe is a true kitchen superstar—simple ingredients, quick cooking, and bursting with fresh, buttery flavor that will keep everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, a cozy date night, or impressing guests, this dish effortlessly brings sunshine to your plate. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.
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Lemon Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
A simple and flavorful lemon butter chicken recipe featuring tender, bite-sized pieces of chicken sautéed to golden perfection and coated in a zesty lemon garlic butter sauce. This quick skillet dish is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, delivering bright citrus notes balanced by savory herbs and spices.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
Sauce
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1–2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces evenly with salt, black pepper, and paprika if using, ensuring each piece is well coated for optimal flavor.
- Heat the Skillet: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the chicken.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- Set the Chicken Aside: Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate to make the sauce in the same pan.
- Melt the Butter: Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the skillet, letting it melt completely.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add Lemon: Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest, allowing the sauce to simmer briefly and meld the flavors together.
- Toss Chicken in Sauce: Return the chicken to the skillet and toss until fully coated in the lemon butter sauce, ensuring every piece is flavored.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Using chicken thighs instead of breasts adds extra juiciness and flavor.
- Adjust the amount of lemon according to your taste preference for more or less tang.
- Serve with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of chili flakes when sautéing the garlic.
