When it comes to a delicious and easy weeknight dinner, Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken is a standout choice! I recently made this for a family meal, and it was an instant favorite. The combination of juicy chicken, zesty lemon, and rich garlic butter creates a mouthwatering dish that’s full of flavor and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful dish:

For the Chicken:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
4 cloves garlic (minced)
Juice and zest of 2 lemons
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Prep the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried oregano on both sides.
Heat the Butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the lemon juice and zest, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan.
Combine: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the lemon garlic butter over the top. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm the chicken through.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with your choice of sides!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per Serving: Approximately 320
Total Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 95mg
Carbohydrates: 2g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 0g
Protein: 30g

Preparation Time

Total Time: 30 minutes
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes

How to Serve

Serve Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken over a bed of rice or pasta to soak up the delicious sauce.
Pair with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Consider adding a lemon wedge on the side for extra zest.

Additional Tips

Make It Ahead: You can marinate the chicken in lemon juice and garlic for an hour before cooking for extra flavor.
Add Veggies: Toss in some spinach, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes to the skillet while making the sauce for added nutrition.
Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Recipe Variations

Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the sauce for a fragrant twist.
Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or Greek yogurt to the sauce for a creamy texture.
Spicy Garlic Butter: Incorporate some crushed red pepper or chili powder for a bit of heat.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with garlic bread to complement the flavors.
Pair with a light white wine for a sophisticated dinner.

Freezing and Storage

Freezing: Cooked chicken can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Storage: Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Special Equipment

Large skillet
Mixing bowl

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A1: Yes! Chicken thighs can be used and will add more moisture to the dish.

Q2: What if I don’t have fresh lemons?
A2: You can use bottled lemon juice, but fresh lemons provide the best flavor.

Q3: How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
A3: The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

Q4: Can I make this dish dairy-free?
A4: Yes! Substitute the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative.

Q5: What sides pair well with this dish?
A5: Consider serving with roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a simple green salad.

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken is a flavorful and easy meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious dish with family and friends!