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
Scale
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.
