🍋 One-Skillet Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 tsp paprika (optional, for color)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp butter, divided
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2–3 tbsp)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- ½ cup chicken broth (or dry white wine for extra flavor)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or mix of thyme, oregano, basil)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon slices (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Season the Chicken:
- Pat chicken dry. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Sear the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chicken and sear for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F). Remove and set aside.
- Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium-low. Add remaining 2 tbsp butter.
- Add garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant (don’t burn it).
- Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning. Scrape up any brown bits for flavor.
- Finish the Dish:
- Return chicken to skillet, spoon sauce over the top.
- Simmer for 2–3 minutes to meld flavors and reheat the chicken.
- Serve:
- Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon slices.
- Serve over rice, mashed potatoes, pasta, or steamed vegetables.
