Lemon Butter Chicken Breasts with Crispy Golden Crust
Lemon Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce is a bright, flavorful dish featuring juicy chicken breasts coated in a tangy, buttery sauce with garlic and fresh herbs. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Ingredients
2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup chicken stock or dry white wine
Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
1 teaspoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Optional: 1 teaspoon capers
Optional: 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Instructions
-
Pat chicken dry, season with salt and pepper, and pound to even thickness.
-
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden and 165°F internally. Remove and keep warm.
-
Lower heat to medium, melt 2 tablespoons butter, sauté garlic 30–60 seconds. Add stock or wine, reduce 2–3 minutes.
-
Stir in lemon juice, zest, remaining butter, optional capers or Dijon. Adjust seasoning.
-
Return chicken to skillet, spoon sauce over, simmer 1–2 minutes. Sprinkle parsley and serve.
Notes
Chicken thighs can be used; make dairy-free by substituting butter; ensure chicken reaches 165°F.