Description
This Lemon Butter Chicken recipe features tender chicken thighs or breasts seared to golden perfection and coated in a luscious lemon butter sauce with garlic, fresh lemon juice, and a hint of red pepper flakes. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a bright and flavorful dinner option that’s perfect for weeknights or when entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 1.5 pounds chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Cooking
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken thighs or breasts with salt and black pepper to ensure the meat is well-flavored before cooking.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and sear for 5 to 6 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce Base: Reduce the heat to medium-low. In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add Lemon and Spices: Stir in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Let the mixture simmer gently for 1 to 2 minutes to combine the flavors.
- Deglaze and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth while scraping the bottom of the skillet to lift any caramelized bits. Let the sauce simmer for 3 to 4 minutes to reduce slightly and thicken.
- Finish Cooking Chicken: Return the seared chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to warm the chicken and allow it to absorb the sauce flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the chicken. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes such as rice, vegetables, or potatoes.
Notes
- Chicken breasts or thighs can be used depending on preference; thighs tend to be juicier.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes to taste or omit for a mild flavor.
- Serve with steamed vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked through by checking that internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- For a richer sauce, you can add an extra tablespoon of butter at the end of cooking.
