Simple ingredients, quick cooking time, and vibrant flavor—Lemon Butter Chicken Breast is one of those essential recipes that belongs in every home cook’s rotation. This dish brings together lightly seared chicken, a silky lemon butter sauce, and subtle aromatics that transform basic pantry staples into something memorable.

Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or a light meal for guests, this dish strikes the perfect balance between ease and elegance. Below, you’ll find a breakdown of everything you need to create this recipe from start to finish—plus tips to make it even better.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and satisfying: From prep to plate in about 30 minutes.
Balanced flavors: Bright lemon, savory garlic, and buttery richness come together perfectly.
Minimal ingredients: Uses items you likely already have on hand.
Customizable: Easily pair with a side of vegetables, pasta, or rice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this lemon butter chicken:

Chicken breasts: Look for boneless, skinless chicken breasts around 5 oz each. Pounding them to an even 1/3-inch thickness ensures they cook evenly and quickly.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for flavoring the chicken before dredging.
All-purpose flour: Creates a light crust and helps the sauce cling to the chicken.
Olive oil and unsalted butter: A combination for browning and building the sauce.
Minced garlic: Adds depth and warmth to the sauce.
Low-sodium chicken broth: Enhances the sauce without overpowering the lemon.
Fresh lemon juice and zest: For brightness and balance.
Fresh parsley (optional): A pop of green and fresh flavor at the end.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep and Season the Chicken

Begin by seasoning both sides of each chicken breast generously with salt and pepper. This simple step lays the foundation for flavor.

2. Dredge in Flour

Lightly coat the chicken breasts in flour, shaking off any excess. This thin coating will help the chicken brown beautifully in the pan and gives the sauce something to cling to later.

3. Sear the Chicken

Heat a large (12-inch) skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Once the butter has melted, carefully place the chicken breasts in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan.

Cook the chicken for 4 to 5 minutes on the first side, until golden brown. Flip and continue cooking for another 4 to 5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

4. Build the Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium. In the same pan (with all those flavorful browned bits), add the garlic and sauté for about 20 seconds, just until fragrant and lightly golden.

Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon to release all the caramelized bits. Stir in the lemon juice and bring to a gentle simmer. Let the mixture cook for about 2 minutes, or until reduced by half.

5. Finish with Butter and Lemon

Add the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter and lemon zest to the pan. Stir gently until the butter is fully melted and the sauce looks glossy.

6. Return the Chicken

Return the chicken to the skillet, turning it once or twice to coat in the sauce. Spoon additional sauce over the top before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.

Recipe Tips

Even thickness matters: Pounding the chicken helps it cook evenly, preventing dry or undercooked spots.
Don’t skip the zest: Lemon zest intensifies the citrus flavor without adding more acidity.
Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and garlic make a noticeable difference in both aroma and taste.

Serving Suggestions

Lemon Butter Chicken pairs well with a variety of sides, depending on what you’re in the mood for:

Roasted vegetables: Think asparagus, green beans, or zucchini.
Mashed potatoes or rice: Ideal for soaking up the lemon butter sauce.
Pasta: Serve the chicken over angel hair or linguine for a more filling dish.

For a light and complete meal, try serving it alongside a crisp green salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of chicken broth or water to keep the chicken moist.

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep ahead by pounding and seasoning the chicken in advance. Store it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Final Thoughts

Lemon Butter Chicken Breast is proof that you don’t need complicated ingredients or lengthy cook times to make something truly satisfying. This dish is approachable enough for weeknights but refined enough to serve when you want to impress.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned home cook, this recipe offers a reliable, flavorful result every time. Keep it in your regular rotation—you’ll find plenty of reasons to come back to it.