Indulge in the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this irresistible Lemon Butter Chicken recipe! In just 35 minutes, you can transform simple chicken breasts into a succulent dish that bursts with zesty lemon and rich butter goodness. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests, this recipe is sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave everyone asking for seconds. Get ready to elevate your culinary skills and discover the secret to a dish that’s as delightful to serve as it is to savor!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 lemons, juiced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken breasts by patting them dry with paper towels and seasoning both sides generously with salt, pepper, and dried thyme.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and melt the butter until it becomes foamy and starts to slightly brown.
- Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into the hot skillet, cooking for approximately 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 30 seconds, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken, creating a vibrant sauce that will deglaze the pan and add bright, citrusy flavor.
- Reduce heat to low and let the chicken simmer in the lemon butter sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and coated with the sauce.
- Remove chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 3-5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot, spooning any remaining lemon butter sauce over the chicken.
- Optional: Serve alongside roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh Mediterranean salad for a complete meal.
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: For the juiciest results, opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts. If you prefer, you can also use thighs for a richer flavor.
- Don’t Rush the Browning: Allow the butter to brown slightly before adding the chicken; this enhances the flavor and adds a beautiful color to the dish.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemons and garlic will elevate the dish significantly. If possible, avoid bottled lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Check the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe and perfect cooking.
- Let it Rest: Allow the chicken to rest after cooking; this helps the juices redistribute, making for a more tender and flavorful bite.
- Customize Your Sides: Pair this dish with roasted vegetables, fluffy rice, or a refreshing Mediterranean salad to create a well-rounded meal.
- Make it a Meal Prep Star: This dish can be made ahead of time and reheats beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 255kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 95mg
