Chicken in Lemon Butter Sauce
If you’re craving a dish that’s both flavorful and comforting, look no further than this Chicken in Lemon Butter Sauce recipe. With succulent chicken breasts, a rich, creamy sauce, and the refreshing zing of lemon, this dish brings together a wonderful balance of textures and tastes. The combination of garlic, fresh oregano, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of honey makes this recipe perfect for a cozy meal or a special dinner.
Here’s how to make this delicious dish in just under an hour!
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken breasts | 1, cut into two pieces | Fresh, boneless, skinless |
| Lemon juice | 1/2 lemon | Freshly squeezed |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | For seasoning |
| Onion | 1, sliced | Yellow or white onion works |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, chopped | Fresh garlic for best flavor |
| Honey | 1 teaspoon | Adds sweetness to balance the acidity |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons | For cooking and richness |
| Fresh oregano | 3 sprigs | Fresh, for aroma and flavor |
| Fresh cream | 1/4 cup | Heavy cream for richness |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/4 cup | Grated, for added flavor |
| Corn flour (cornstarch) | 1 teaspoon | To thicken the sauce |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | For seasoning |
Instructions:
-
Marinate the Chicken:
- Start by marinating the chicken breasts. In a bowl, combine the juice of half a lemon with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Place the chicken breasts into the bowl, making sure they are evenly coated in the lemon juice mixture.
- Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
-
Cook the Chicken:
- Once the chicken is marinated, heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Place the chicken breasts in the skillet, pressing down gently to ensure they sear evenly.
- Cook the chicken for about 10 minutes on one side, until it’s nicely charred. Flip the chicken over and cook for an additional 10 minutes on the other side, until fully cooked through and golden brown on both sides.
-
Make the Lemon Butter Sauce:
- Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the sliced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the chopped garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant and softened.
- Squeeze in the juice of the second half of the lemon, and add fresh oregano sprigs, grated Parmesan cheese, and honey. Stir everything together, letting the cheese melt into the sauce.
- Pour in the fresh cream and add 1/2 cup of water mixed with the corn flour (cornstarch) to thicken the sauce. Stir the mixture and bring it to a gentle boil.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
-
Assemble the Dish:
- Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy lemon butter sauce over the top. Allow the chicken to warm in the sauce for a few minutes.
-
Serve:
- Serve the chicken hot, garnished with fresh oregano if desired. Pair it with Garlic Bread or a Light and Creamy Broccoli Soup on the side for a complete meal. For a more filling option, serve it alongside Steamed Rice.
Cooking Tips:
- Marination Time: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be. If you have the time, let the chicken marinate for up to an hour or even overnight in the refrigerator.
- Chicken Cooking Tip: Make sure not to overcook the chicken; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This ensures the chicken stays juicy and tender.
- Lemon Zest: For an extra burst of citrus flavor, you can add a bit of lemon zest to the sauce before serving.
- Cream Substitution: If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute the fresh cream with half-and-half or milk, although the texture of the sauce will be slightly thinner.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~450 kcal |
| Protein | ~30 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~10 g |
| Fat | ~30 g |
| Saturated Fat | ~15 g |
| Fiber | ~1 g |
| Sugar | ~5 g |
| Sodium | ~400 mg |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Creamy & Tangy: The richness of the butter and cream combined with the zing of fresh lemon creates a mouthwatering sauce that complements the chicken perfectly.
- Quick & Easy: With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a total cooking time of 35 minutes, this dish is easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet special enough for guests.
- Versatile: Whether you’re serving it with bread, rice, or vegetables, this dish pairs well with many sides, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.
Serving Suggestions:
- Garlic Bread/Buns: The creamy sauce is perfect for soaking up with a piece of crusty garlic bread or soft, buttered buns.
- Steamed Rice: If you’re looking for a heartier option, steamed rice makes a great side, as it absorbs the flavorful sauce beautifully.
- Light Salad: For a lighter meal, pair the chicken with a crisp salad of mixed greens, cucumber, and tomatoes, dressed with a simple vinaigrette.
Enjoy your homemade Chicken in Lemon Butter Sauce, a dish that’s as delicious as it is easy to prepare. Whether you’re treating yourself to a flavorful weeknight dinner or serving it to guests, this recipe is sure to impress.
