Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken is a dish that brings vibrant flavors to your table with minimal effort. This recipe features tender chicken thighs seared to golden perfection and simmered in a luscious sauce made from lemon juice, garlic, and butter.
The result is a succulent, tangy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. With just one pan needed, cleanup is a breeze, making this a go-to recipe for home cooks who value both flavor and convenience.
This dish shines with its bright, zesty notes balanced by the richness of butter and the savory depth of garlic. It pairs beautifully with sides like mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables, creating a complete meal in about 40 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is sure to impress with its simplicity and bold taste.
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See also: 20 Quick and Easy Dinner Recipes
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken recipe stands out for several reasons:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in 40 minutes, it’s ideal for busy schedules.
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimal dishes mean more time to relax.
- Versatile Pairings: Complements a variety of sides, from rice to roasted vegetables.
- Bold Flavors: The combination of lemon, garlic, and butter creates a sauce that’s both refreshing and indulgent.
- Healthy Option: With lean protein and customizable sides, it fits into balanced diets.
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Ingredients
To make this delicious Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken, gather the following ingredients:
- 6 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on (about 2 pounds)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup lemon juice, freshly squeezed (about 2 lemons)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon slices (optional, for garnish)
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Kitchen Equipment/Appliances Needed
You’ll need the following tools to prepare this recipe:
- Large skillet (preferably cast iron or non-stick)
- Tongs for handling chicken
- Measuring cups and measuring spoons
- Cutting board and knife for mincing garlic and chopping parsley
- Juicer for extracting lemon juice
- Spatula or wooden spoon for stirring the sauce
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See also: The Best Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy sear. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and paprika. This step enhances flavor and promotes browning.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and cook for 5-6 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. Flip the chicken and cook for another 3-4 minutes. Remove the chicken to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the lemon juice and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Stir in the dried thyme.
Step 4: Simmer the Chicken
Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, skin-side up, and spoon some of the sauce over them. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Baste the chicken with the sauce occasionally for extra flavor.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the chicken with fresh parsley. Add lemon slices for a decorative touch if desired. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
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Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and garlic elevate the flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Sear: A good sear locks in juices and adds texture.
- Adjust the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered for the last 5 minutes.
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
- Make It Your Own: Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or honey for a touch of sweetness.
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See also: Easy Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
Nutritional Facts
Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 24g (Saturated Fat: 9g)
- Carbohydrates: 2g (Sugars: 0.5g)
- Fiber: 0.3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Cholesterol: 120mg
These values may vary based on portion size and specific ingredients used. For those managing cholesterol, Lipid Control Plus can support heart health and lipid balance.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides:
- Mashed potatoes: Creamy and comforting, they soak up the sauce beautifully.
- Steamed vegetables: Try broccoli or green beans for a healthy option.
- Rice: Jasmine or basmati rice complements the tangy sauce.
- Salad: A fresh green salad with olive oil dressing adds crunch.
- Crusty bread: Perfect for mopping up the extra sauce.
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See also: Easy Indian Butter Chicken Recipe
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist, or microwave in a microwave-safe dish until warmed through.
Variations
- Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Breasts: Swap thighs for chicken breasts and reduce cooking time to avoid drying out.
- Creamy Version: Add 1/4 cup heavy cream to the sauce for a richer texture.
- Herb Swap: Use rosemary or oregano instead of thyme for a different flavor profile.
- Spicy Twist: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes for heat.
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See also: Easy Chicken Alfredo Recipe
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts work well, but they cook faster. Check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to avoid overcooking.
2. Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Absolutely! With low carbs and high fat from butter and chicken thighs, it fits a ketogenic diet. Pair with keto-friendly sides like cauliflower rice. Try NuviaLab Keto for extra support.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently in a skillet to maintain texture.
4. What can I substitute for butter?
You can use olive oil or ghee for a dairy-free option, though the flavor will differ slightly.
5. How do I prevent the sauce from being too runny?
Simmer the sauce uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce and thicken it. Stirring in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water can also help.
See also: Easy Orange Chicken Recipe
Conclusion
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken is a recipe that delivers on flavor, ease, and versatility. Its tangy, buttery sauce and crispy chicken make it a crowd-pleaser, while the one-pan method keeps your kitchen stress-free. Whether paired with mashed potatoes or a light salad, this dish is a fantastic addition to your meal rotation.
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Enjoy cooking, and savor every zesty bite
Looking for more quick and easy dinner recipes? Here are a few of my faves:
- Creamy Chicken Orzo
- Spaghetti Aglio e Olio Recipe
- Easy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
- The Best Homemade Margherita Pizza Recipe
- Easy Creamy Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese
