why make this recipe
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings the brightness of lemon and the warmth of garlic to your dinner table. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. This recipe is not only delicious but also offers a good balance of protein and flavor, ensuring a satisfying meal for everyone.
how to make Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Directions:
- In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Pour the lemon juice over the chicken and let simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with parsley before serving.
how to serve Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken is best served warm. You can plate it alongside steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad to balance the flavors. A slice of lemon on the side can enhance the meal, allowing guests to add more citrusy goodness if they choose.
how to store Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken
To store leftover Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it. Make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and keep it in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in a skillet until heated through.
tips to make Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon juice, garlic, and thyme for a few hours before cooking.
- Adjust the amount of garlic according to your taste preference; more garlic can give it a bolder flavor.
- If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking.
variation
You can easily adapt this recipe by adding vegetables like broccoli or asparagus to the skillet during cooking. They will soak up the delicious flavors of the sauce and add nutrition to your meal.
FAQs
Can I use boneless thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs work wonderfully and will be juicy and flavorful.
What can I serve with Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken?
This dish pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or a light salad. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Can I prepare this in advance?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and store them separately until you are ready to cook. This helps save time on busy nights!
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken
A simple yet flavorful dish that brings the brightness of lemon and the warmth of garlic to your dinner table.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Pour the lemon juice over the chicken and let simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon juice, garlic, and thyme for a few hours before cooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
