As the sun sets and the day winds down, I often find myself yearning for a quick yet satisfying dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor. That’s when I discovered the magic of Skillet Garlic Lemon Butter Chicken. This delightful dish brings together succulent chicken breasts, a crispy parmesan coating, and a vibrant lemon butter sauce that dances on the palate.
It all started when I was pressed for time after a long day, and I needed a meal that could come together in just 30 minutes. A lively blend of tangy lemon and aromatic garlic fills the kitchen, instantly elevating the dining experience. Paired with sautéed green beans, this recipe is not only a feast for the senses, but it also comes in under 500 calories, making it a perfect weeknight option for anyone looking to spice up their dinner routine. Let me guide you through this effortless yet exquisite dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why is Skillet Garlic Lemon Butter Chicken a must-try?
Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The zesty lemon and aromatic garlic blend beautifully, delivering a punch of flavor in every bite.
Healthy Option: With the full meal clocking in under 500 calories, you can indulge guilt-free!
Versatile Ingredient Swaps: Easily adapt for gluten-free diets or mix in your favorite veggies like asparagus or zucchini.
Impressive Presentation: The golden chicken and vibrant green beans create a dish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
Let this Skillet Garlic Lemon Butter Chicken be your next go-to recipe for dinner guests, or simply to enjoy a delightful meal at home!
Skillet Garlic Lemon Butter Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – The star protein of this dish; consider swapping with chicken thighs for a richer taste.
- Parmesan Cheese – Adds a savory, nutty flavor while enhancing the crispy texture.
- All-Purpose Flour – Coats the chicken to create a crispy crust; use cornstarch or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
- Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing the chicken to achieve that perfect golden-brown finish.
For the Lemon Butter Sauce
- Garlic – Offers aromatic depth and enhances the flavor; using fresh cloves is highly recommended.
- Lemon Juice – This ingredient provides a bright, tangy flavor that’s indispensable for the dish; use freshly squeezed for best results.
- Red Pepper Flakes – A hint of heat to complement the lemon; adjust to your spice preference.
- Italian Seasoning – A delightful blend of herbs that elevates the dish’s overall flavor profile.
For the Veggies
- Green Beans – Adds a fresh, crisp texture that complements the chicken wonderfully; you can substitute with asparagus or zucchini if desired.
The delicious Skillet Garlic Lemon Butter Chicken will bring joy to your dinner table, and these carefully selected ingredients are sure to make your cooking experience as enjoyable as the meal itself!
How to Make Skillet Garlic Lemon Butter Chicken
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Combine flour, parmesan, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning in a shallow dish. This mixture will create a deliciously crispy coating for your chicken.
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Coat chicken breasts thoroughly in the flour mixture, ensuring even coverage on all sides. This step is key for achieving that delightful crunch!
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Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken and sauté for 4-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
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Prepare the lemon butter sauce: In a saucepan, simmer garlic, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, and seasoning to reduce the juice slightly. Then, stir in cold butter gradually until melted and the mixture is smooth and homogenous.
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Add green beans to the skillet during the last few minutes of the chicken cooking, allowing them to soften slightly. Pour the lemon butter sauce over everything, letting the flavors meld together beautifully.
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Serve immediately, garnished with additional parmesan and fresh herbs if desired. This dish is best enjoyed hot, showcasing all those vibrant flavors!
Optional: Drizzle with extra lemon juice for a fresh zing!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Skillet Garlic Lemon Butter Chicken Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make this dish truly your own!
- Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend for the crispy coating.
- Creamy Sauce: For a rich touch, stir in a splash of heavy cream into your lemon butter sauce.
- Vegetable Medley: Replace green beans with asparagus or zucchini, or mix in sweet peas for added sweetness.
- Herb Infusion: Try using fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or basil to elevate the flavor profile.
- Spice It Up: For a bolder kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few more red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Umami Boost: Incorporate a tablespoon of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce in the lemon butter for an extra flavor dimension.
- Citrus Variants: Experiment with lime or orange juice for an alternative citrusy zing that’s equally refreshing.
- Crunchy Topping: Finish your dish with toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs for added texture and flavor contrast.
Each variation unlocks new flavors and textures, encouraging you to create a personalized version of this comforting classic!
Make Ahead Options
These Skillet Garlic Lemon Butter Chicken options are ideal for busy weeknights, allowing you to prep in advance and save valuable time! You can marinate the chicken with flour, parmesan, and seasonings up to 24 hours ahead; simply store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can prepare the lemon butter sauce and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days, ensuring you reheat it gently before serving to prevent separation. On the day of serving, all that’s left to do is quickly sauté the chicken and green beans, pour over the luscious sauce, and enjoy a flavorful meal with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Skillet Garlic Lemon Butter Chicken
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Proper Coating: Ensure chicken is evenly coated with the flour and parmesan mixture to achieve that desired crispy texture.
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Butter Temperature: Add cold butter to the sauce gradually; this helps achieve a silky consistency without separating.
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Avoid Burning Garlic: Be cautious with garlic—add it to the sauce just before reducing the lemon juice to prevent bitterness.
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Vegetable Alternatives: If green beans are not available, consider using asparagus or zucchini—they both pair beautifully with the chicken.
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Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to confirm your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
Each of these tips will help you master the art of making the perfect Skillet Garlic Lemon Butter Chicken, ensuring your meal is a hit every time!
What to Serve with Skillet Garlic Lemon Butter Chicken?
As you savor the crisp textures and vibrant flavors of this dish, consider these delightful pairings to create a complete meal experience.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their rich, buttery flavor contrasts beautifully with the tangy lemon sauce, making each bite a comforting delight.
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Couscous Salad: Light and fluffy, couscous tossed with fresh herbs and lemon adds an inviting brightness that ties together the meal. It’s also perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
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Garlic Bread: The warm, toasty bread with its garlicky goodness is an irresistible side that encourages a perfect soak of the lemon butter sauce!
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Sautéed Asparagus: Lightly sautéed and seasoned, the fresh and crisp asparagus adds a lovely crunch and a pop of color to your plate, complementing the chicken’s zestiness.
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Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa mixed with colorful veggies provides a wholesome, fiber-rich side, elevating your heartiness without overwhelming the palate.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine with a creamy dressing is a classic option that brings a refreshing crunch and complements the chicken’s richness.
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Zesty Lemonade: Cool and refreshing, a glass of sparkling or classic lemonade infused with fresh herbs brings a delightful zing, enhancing each flavorful bite.
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Chocolate Mousse: End the meal on a sweet note! The smooth, rich chocolate mousse provides a decadent contrast to the bright flavors of the main dish.
Create an inviting table with these additions, and let your loved ones enjoy a memorable dining experience!
How to Store and Freeze Skillet Garlic Lemon Butter Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover Skillet Garlic Lemon Butter Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain its delicious flavors.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken without the green beans in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or a little water to keep it moist.
Avoid Overcooking: Be cautious while reheating; warm the chicken just until heated through to prevent it from drying out and losing its tender texture.
Skillet Garlic Lemon Butter Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this dish as they cook quickly and stay juicy. However, you can swap them for chicken thighs if you prefer a richer flavor and a bit more fat.
How do I store leftover Skillet Garlic Lemon Butter Chicken?
Store your leftover Skillet Garlic Lemon Butter Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop to retain its juiciness and avoid overcooking the chicken.
Can I freeze Skillet Garlic Lemon Butter Chicken?
Very! To freeze, I recommend sealing the chicken (without green beans) in an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to ensure even warming.
What should I do if the garlic burns while making the sauce?
If you notice the garlic starting to brown too quickly, don’t panic! Remove it from the heat immediately to prevent bitterness. In the future, try adding the garlic just a minute or two before you simmer the lemon juice, ensuring it doesn’t have too much time to cook.
Is this dish safe for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely! For gluten-free adaptation, simply substitute all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. Adjust the quantities to coat the chicken adequately while maintaining that delightful crunch.
How can I adjust this recipe for picky eaters?
The more the merrier! If someone in your family is not a fan of green beans, consider substituting them with sweet peas, baby carrots, or even broccoli. These options will still add fresh textures and nutrients while pleasing everyone at the table!
Skillet Garlic Lemon Butter Chicken in Just 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine flour, parmesan, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning in a shallow dish.
- Coat chicken breasts thoroughly in the flour mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add coated chicken and sauté for 4-6 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Prepare the lemon butter sauce by simmering garlic, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, and seasoning, then stir in cold butter until smooth.
- Add green beans to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking chicken.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional parmesan and herbs.