Lemon Chicken with Butter Sauce is a delightful dish that brings together the tangy brightness of lemons and the rich, creamy goodness of butter. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate a balance of flavors, as the acidity of the lemon cuts through the richness of the butter, creating a harmonious and delicious meal. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner for your family or a special meal for guests, this dish is sure to impress with its elegant presentation and exquisite taste.
The combination of lemon and chicken is a classic in many culinary traditions. The acidity of the lemon not only enhances the flavor of the chicken but also helps to tenderize it, resulting in a juicy and flavorful dish. The butter sauce adds a layer of richness, making the dish feel indulgent while remaining light enough for any occasion.
This recipe is easy to follow and can be prepared in under an hour, making it a great choice for busy cooks who still want to serve something special. Below, you’ll find a detailed recipe for Lemon Chicken with Butter Sauce, along with several variations and substitutions to help you customize the dish to your preferences.
Lemon Chicken with Butter Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
1/4 cup heavy cream
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon capers (optional)
Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dredge each breast in flour, shaking off any excess.
Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the chicken broth, lemon juice, and garlic. Bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
Add Cream and Butter:
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and butter, one tablespoon at a time, until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add the capers if using.
Combine and Serve:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve.
Variations
Herbed Lemon Chicken:
Add fresh or dried herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or basil to the sauce for additional flavor.
Lemon Garlic Chicken:
Increase the amount of garlic in the sauce for a more pronounced garlic flavor.
Spicy Lemon Chicken:
Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta:
Serve the lemon chicken and sauce over cooked pasta for a complete meal.
Substitutions
Gluten-Free Option:
Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch to dredge the chicken instead of all-purpose flour.
Dairy-Free Version:
Replace the butter with a dairy-free butter substitute and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
Lower-Calorie Version:
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream to reduce the calorie content.
Vegetarian Alternative:
Replace the chicken breasts with firm tofu or portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
Conclusion
Lemon Chicken with Butter Sauce is a versatile and delicious dish that combines the zesty flavor of lemon with the richness of butter to create a harmonious and satisfying meal. This easy-to-follow recipe ensures that you can enjoy a gourmet experience without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you stick to the classic preparation or experiment with the suggested variations and substitutions, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables, over pasta, or with a simple salad for a well-rounded meal. The possibilities are endless, and the results are always delightful. Enjoy the bright, tangy flavors and the creamy, rich sauce of this Lemon Chicken with Butter Sauce, and savor the compliments from your family and friends.
