🍋 Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken
Serves: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: ~30–35 minutes
📝 Ingredients
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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½ tsp paprika
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2 tbsp olive oil
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3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
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5 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup chicken broth
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Juice of 1 large lemon (plus zest if desired)
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1 tsp Italian seasoning or thyme
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1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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Optional: 1–2 tsp honey for sweetness balance
🔪 Instructions
1. Season the Chicken:
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Pat chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Sear:
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
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Sear chicken for 4–5 minutes per side (depending on thickness) until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
3. Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce:
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In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium.
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Add 1 tbsp butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant (don’t burn).
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Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice. Scrape up browned bits from the pan.
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Stir in Italian seasoning and simmer for 3–4 minutes.
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Whisk in remaining 2 tbsp butter (and honey if using) to finish the sauce.
4. Finish the Chicken:
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Return chicken to the skillet. Spoon sauce over the top.
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Simmer 2–3 minutes more to reheat and meld flavors.
5. Serve:
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Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon zest if desired.
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Serve over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or with roasted vegetables.
🍽️ Tips & Variations
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Add a splash of white wine with the broth for depth.
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Use bone-in, skin-on thighs for extra flavor (just adjust cook time).
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Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or capers for added complexity.
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Want creamy? Add a splash of heavy cream before serving.
Would you like a sheet pan version, creamy lemon garlic twist, or a low-carb pairing suggestion next?