Zesty Lemon Butter Chicken Breast Recipe

If you are searching for a dish that is full of flavor but still simple to prepare, Zesty Lemon Butter Chicken is the perfect choice. This recipe pairs tender, juicy chicken with a rich buttery sauce that is brightened with fresh lemon juice and infused with fragrant herbs. The result is a meal that feels indulgent yet comes together quickly, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The tangy notes of lemon complement the creamy butter perfectly, creating a dish that is vibrant, comforting, and satisfying in every bite. Whether paired with fluffy rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad, the flavors combine beautifully, leaving a fresh, light, and utterly delicious experience.

Ingredients Needed

Here is the complete list of ingredients with precise measurements to make the best Zesty Lemon Butter Chicken:

For the chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons olive oil

For the lemon butter sauce

• 4 teaspoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• 2 teaspoons heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Step by Step Cooking Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook in olive oil over medium heat until golden and 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Set aside.

Making the Lemon Butter Sauce

Melt butter in the skillet, then saute garlic for one minute. Add chicken broth and scrape up browned bits. Stir in lemon juice, zest, Dijon mustard, honey, and thyme. Simmer three to five minutes, then add cream if desired. Season to taste.

Combining Chicken and Sauce

Return chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over, and cook two to three minutes. Garnish with parsley before serving.

Tips for Customizing the Recipe

You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier result, as they stay moist and absorb flavors beautifully. To make it a one-pan meal, add vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or bell peppers to the skillet. For a subtle kick, sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes. To make the recipe gluten free, ensure the Dijon mustard and chicken broth are certified gluten free. If you prefer a lighter version, skip the heavy cream the sauce will still be rich and flavorful thanks to the butter and lemon juice.

Nutritional Information

This recipe serves four, with each serving providing approximately 360 calories, 38 grams of protein, 18 grams of fat, and 9 grams of saturated fat. It contains around 5 grams of carbohydrates, 2 grams of sugar, 0.5 grams of fiber, and 680 milligrams of sodium. These values may vary depending on the size of the chicken and specific ingredients used.

Serving Suggestions

Zesty Lemon Butter Chicken is versatile and pairs well with many sides. Serve it over fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the buttery sauce, or pair it with roasted or steamed vegetables like carrots, green beans, or broccoli. You can also toss it with pasta for a quick lemon butter chicken pasta dish or serve it alongside a fresh salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. For a low-carb option, try cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. A simple wedge of lemon on the side can enhance the bright, citrusy flavor even more.

Frequently Asked Questions