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Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Breasts

Juicy chicken breasts seared and bathed in a glossy lemony garlic butter sauce for a bright and comforting weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and black pepper.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  3. Sear the chicken for 5 to 6 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken and keep warm.
  4. In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter and add the minced garlic; sauté until fragrant.
  5. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth. Let the sauce simmer for 2 to 3 minutes.
  6. Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over the top, and let simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes.
  7. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.

Notes

Tip: Use a meat thermometer; chicken is done at 165 degrees F in the thickest part. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken, lemon, garlic, butter, weeknight dinner, easy recipe, seared chicken