Chicken Breast with Lemon Butter

Name: Chicken Breast with Lemon Butter
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

This Chicken Breast with Lemon Butter recipe is a delightful and easy dish that brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table.

Created by

Celeste Morgan

Last updated on 2025-12-24T19:09:35.342Z

This dish combines juicy chicken breasts with a rich and zesty lemon butter sauce that complements the savory flavors perfectly. It's quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough for a special occasion.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Zesty lemon flavor that brightens up the dish
Tender and juicy chicken that is easy to prepare
Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests

      

A Simple Yet Flavorful Dish

Chicken Breast with Lemon Butter is the epitome of a simple yet exquisite meal. This dish highlights the natural flavors of chicken, enhanced by a rich lemon butter sauce that is both zesty and comforting. The preparation is straightforward, making it an excellent choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs looking for a quick weeknight dinner.

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. You can serve it with a variety of sides, such as steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. The lemon butter sauce pairs beautifully with many flavors, making it easy to customize your meal according to your preferences.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken

To achieve perfectly cooked chicken breasts, it’s essential to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. Cooking the chicken at medium-high heat ensures a golden-brown crust while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this can lead to uneven cooking.

Additionally, letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more succulent bite. While it's tempting to dive in right away, a short resting period can make a significant difference in texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

When serving Chicken Breast with Lemon Butter, consider garnishing it with additional lemon slices or fresh herbs. This not only enhances the dish's appearance but also adds an extra touch of flavor. A sprinkle of capers can also elevate the dish, providing a delightful briny contrast to the rich butter sauce.

Pair your meal with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, to complement the lemony notes of the sauce. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a wedge of lemon offers a refreshing palate cleanser that matches the dish perfectly.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Lemon Butter Sauce

1/2 cup unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, until cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. Stir in the lemon juice and zest, and cook for another minute.

Combine and Serve

Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the sauce over it, and let it cook for another 2 minutes. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley.

Enjoy this dish with rice or a fresh salad!

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the Chicken Breast with Lemon Butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain its flavor and texture, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. When using a microwave, heat in short intervals to avoid overcooking the chicken.

For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken without the sauce. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned above.

Nutritional Benefits

Chicken breast is a lean source of protein, making it an excellent choice for a healthy diet. It's low in fat and high in essential nutrients, including B vitamins, which are crucial for energy metabolism. The addition of lemon not only enhances flavor but also provides vitamin C, supporting your immune system and skin health.

Using unsalted butter in the sauce allows you to control the sodium content of the dish. By incorporating fresh herbs like parsley, you add antioxidants and additional vitamins, making this recipe not only delicious but also nutritious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work well but may require slightly longer cooking time.

→ How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter.

→ What's the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken in the sauce for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.