Lemon chicken is one of those dishes that feels like sunshine on a plate. With its bright, zesty lemon butter sauce and tender, juicy chicken breast, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a cozy meal for two, the vibrant flavors and silky sauce will have everyone asking for seconds.

This Lemon Chicken Recipe (with Lemon Butter Sauce) is incredibly simple to make but tastes like it took hours to prepare. The combination of garlic, parmesan, and a rich lemon butter sauce makes it a comforting yet elegant dish. It’s perfect served over rice, pasta, or alongside fresh steamed vegetables. Let’s dive into why this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

There’s something magical about the balance of flavors in this lemon chicken. The tangy lemon juice cuts through the rich butter, while the parmesan adds a subtle nuttiness that elevates every bite. Plus, it’s packed with protein and uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry or fridge.

Another reason you’ll keep coming back to this recipe is how versatile it is. You can dress it up for a special occasion or keep it casual for a weeknight dinner. It’s also perfect for meal prep, making lunches and dinners throughout the week a little more exciting.

If you love dishes like Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata, this lemon chicken with lemon butter sauce will fit right into your recipe rotation. The familiar flavors with a fresh twist make it a recipe worth mastering.

Shopping List

1 1/2 lb chicken breast (2 large), patted dry with paper towels
1 Tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
1 Tbsp fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
1/2 lemon, sliced (optional, for garnish)
2 large eggs
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp ground black pepper
1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
3 Tbsp all-purpose flour
8 Tbsp unsalted butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor)
1/4 cup chicken broth (look for low sodium)
1/4 tsp ground black pepper (additional for sauce)

Hardware & Gadgets

Large skillet or frying pan – for sautéing the chicken and making the sauce
Mixing bowls – to prepare the egg wash and dredge mixture
Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient amounts
Sharp knife – for slicing chicken breasts and mincing garlic
Tongs or spatula – to flip and handle the chicken while cooking
Zester or microplane (optional) – if you want to add lemon zest to deepen the flavor

The Method for Lemon Chicken Recipe (with Lemon Butter Sauce)

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pat your chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure a nice sear. In one bowl, whisk together the eggs, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese and flour.

Step 2: Dredge the Chicken

Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, making sure it’s fully coated, then dredge it in the Parmesan-flour mixture. Press gently to help the coating stick well.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

Lower the heat to medium-low. Add the unsalted butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Carefully pour in the lemon juice and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened. Season with additional black pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the lemon butter sauce over the top. Let everything warm together for another 2 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully. Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon slices if using. Serve hot over your favorite side.

Holiday & Seasonal Touches

Add a sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary to the sauce for an earthy twist during fall and winter.
Serve alongside roasted asparagus or green beans for a bright spring or summer meal.
Incorporate a splash of white wine into the lemon butter sauce for a festive touch.
Top with toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for added texture during holidays.

Mistakes Even Pros Make

Not drying the chicken thoroughly before coating, which can prevent a crispy crust.
Overcrowding the pan, leading to steaming rather than sautéing the chicken.
Cooking the chicken on too high heat and burning the coating before the inside cooks through.
Skipping the rest time after cooking, which helps the juices redistribute and keeps the chicken tender.
Underseasoning the sauce—lemon and butter need enough seasoning to shine.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

This lemon chicken reheats beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm gently in a skillet or microwave to keep the chicken moist. Pair leftover chicken with simple sides like steamed veggies or try it shredded over salads or in wraps.

If you want to switch things up, try pairing this lemon chicken with a comforting side like the Chicken And Wild Rice Bake. The creamy textures and mild flavors complement each other perfectly.

Quick Q&A

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will bring a bit more richness and stay juicy. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs usually take a bit longer to cook through.

What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?

If you need a substitute, try a hard cheese like pecorino Romano or even a nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. The key is that sharp, savory flavor that Parmesan provides.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend or almond flour. Just keep in mind the texture of the coating might be a little different but still delicious.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

While the sauce is best served fresh, you can prepare it a few hours in advance and gently reheat it. Just add a little extra butter or broth if it thickens too much upon standing.

Reader Favorites

Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata – A luscious and creamy take on lemon chicken with capers and a silky sauce.
Chicken And Wild Rice Bake – A comforting casserole perfect for pairing with any chicken dish.
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Chicken – Another Parmesan-packed chicken recipe that’s crispy and flavorful.
Honey Garlic Chicken – Sweet, sticky, and garlicky, this recipe is a family favorite.

In Closing

This lemon chicken with lemon butter sauce is a recipe you’ll want in your back pocket for those busy weeknights or special occasions. It’s approachable enough for beginners but impressive enough to serve guests. The bright lemon juice paired with the richness of butter and Parmesan creates a perfect harmony of flavors that’s simply irresistible.

Don’t be surprised if this dish quickly becomes a go-to in your kitchen. The ease of preparation combined with the delicious results makes it a winner every time. Serve it with your favorite sides, garnish with fresh herbs and lemon slices, and enjoy a meal full of warmth and comfort—because sometimes the simplest recipes are the most memorable. Happy cooking!