Lemon Butter Chicken

This Lemon Butter Chicken recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner! With tender chicken breasts drenched in a zesty lemon butter sauce, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor. In under 30 minutes, you can create a delightful meal that works for family dinners or entertaining guests. Its vibrant taste and creamy texture make it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of lemon juice and butter creates a rich, tangy sauce that elevates the dish.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it over pasta, rice, or alongside vegetables for a complete meal that suits any palate.
• Easily Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or vegetables to the sauce for extra flair.
• Family-Friendly: The mild flavors appeal to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone will enjoy it.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Lemon Butter Chicken, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment streamlines the cooking process and helps achieve great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A good skillet allows for even cooking and easy mixing of ingredients without overcrowding.
• Cutting board: Protects your countertops while providing a stable surface for chopping ingredients safely.
• Sharp knife: Ensures precise cuts for even cooking and enhances safety when preparing your ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
• salt and pepper

For the Sauce

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 tablespoons butter (divided)
• 1/2 small onion (diced finely)
• 1 cup chicken stock
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

For Serving

• 8 ounces dry egg noodles

How to Make Lemon Butter Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Dredge each piece in flour, shaking off any excess.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

1. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and diced onion.
2. Sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Pour in the chicken stock and bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in fresh lemon juice, then return the chicken to the skillet.

Step 4: Combine with Pasta

1. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions; drain well.
2. Once the chicken is cooked through, remove from heat and stir in cooked noodles until well coated in sauce.

Step 5: Serve

Plate up your Lemon Butter Chicken over a bed of pasta and enjoy this delicious meal!

Servings: [‘4’]
Prep Time: PT5M
Cook Time: PT25M
Nutrition Facts: Calories: 507 kcal

How to Serve Lemon Butter Chicken

Lemon Butter Chicken is a deliciously versatile dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Classic Pasta Pairing

• Serve over cooked pasta like fettuccine or spaghetti for a comforting meal. The sauce clings beautifully to the noodles, making every bite flavorful.

Fresh Garden Salad

• A crisp garden salad complements the richness of the chicken. Use mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for balance.

Steamed Vegetables

• Add a side of steamed broccoli or green beans for a nutritious touch. The vibrant colors and textures enhance your dining experience.

Crusty Bread

• Offer slices of crusty bread to soak up the lemon butter sauce. A warm baguette or sourdough is perfect for this purpose.

How to Perfect Lemon Butter Chicken

To achieve the best Lemon Butter Chicken, follow these simple tips for an irresistible dish.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and high-quality chicken stock enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Don’t overcook the chicken: Cook until just done to keep it tender and juicy.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper to suit your palate.
• Let it rest: Allow the chicken to rest briefly after cooking for better moisture retention.
• Experiment with herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can add an aromatic touch to your dish.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Butter Chicken

Pairing Lemon Butter Chicken with the right sides can create a balanced meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side that absorbs the lemon butter sauce beautifully.

2. Quinoa Salad
   A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers, bell peppers, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a nutritious contrast.

3. Roasted Asparagus
   Roasting asparagus brings out its natural sweetness, making it an excellent accompaniment with a drizzle of olive oil.

4. Rice Pilaf
   Fluffy rice pilaf flavored with herbs adds texture and absorbs flavors from the chicken nicely.

5. Couscous with Vegetables
   Light couscous mixed with sautéed vegetables creates a colorful side dish that pairs perfectly with lemon butter chicken.

6. Zucchini Noodles
   For a lighter option, serve zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil and garlic alongside the chicken for freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Lemon Butter Chicken can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here’s what to watch for:

• Using too much flour – Excess flour can lead to a thick sauce. Use just enough to lightly coat the chicken for a balanced texture.
• Overcooking the chicken – Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F and remove from heat promptly.
• Neglecting seasoning – Underseasoned chicken is bland. Don’t forget to season your chicken with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Skipping the fresh lemon juice – Bottled lemon juice lacks freshness. Always use fresh lemon juice to enhance flavor in your dish.
• Not letting the sauce thicken – Rushing the cooking process means losing out on a rich sauce. Allow the sauce to simmer until it thickens nicely.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let the dish cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Lemon Butter Chicken

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with the date for reference.

Reheating Lemon Butter Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Place in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Lemon Butter Chicken?

Lemon Butter Chicken is a flavorful dish made with tender chicken breast cooked in a zesty lemon butter sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or even beef if you prefer, as they will absorb similar flavors from the sauce.

How do I make Lemon Butter Chicken spicier?

To add heat, consider including crushed red pepper flakes or black pepper when cooking. This will give your dish an extra kick!

Is Lemon Butter Chicken suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and can be prepared ahead of time, making it great for meal prepping.

Can I customize this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like asparagus or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Butter Chicken recipe is not only quick but also bursting with flavor. Its versatility allows you to customize it easily by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting seasoning levels. Try it out for dinner tonight—you won’t be disappointed!