Description
This Lemon Butter Chicken is a quick and flavorful skillet recipe featuring tender bite-sized chicken pieces cooked to golden perfection and tossed in a zesty lemon butter sauce with garlic and fresh parsley. Perfect for a simple weeknight meal, this dish combines savory, tangy, and buttery flavors that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
Cooking Fats and Seasonings
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1–2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Evenly season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, and paprika if using. This ensures each piece is well-flavored before cooking.
- Heat the skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Allow it to warm up so the chicken will sear properly.
- Cook the chicken: Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken pieces turn golden brown and are cooked through.
- Remove chicken: Transfer the cooked chicken from the skillet onto a plate and set aside to keep warm.
- Melt the butter: Reduce the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter to the same skillet. Let it melt completely, preparing the base for the sauce.
- Sauté garlic: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until it becomes fragrant but not browned.
- Add lemon: Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest, allowing the sauce to simmer briefly so the flavors meld together.
- Combine chicken and sauce: Return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet and toss them thoroughly in the lemon butter sauce until every piece is fully coated.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the chicken for a bright, fresh finish. Serve immediately to enjoy the dish at its best.
Notes
- Using both chicken breasts or thighs works well; thighs tend to be juicier.
- Adjust paprika quantity or omit according to your spice preference.
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it tender and moist.
- For extra zest, add a small squeeze of fresh lemon just before serving.
- This dish pairs well with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
