🍋 Skillet Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken
🧾 Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (pounded to even thickness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional, for color)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp butter, divided
- 5–6 garlic cloves, minced
- Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tbsp)
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional but adds a great pop)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or white wine)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or dried thyme/oregano mix)
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Lemon slices (for garnish, optional)
🔪 Instructions:
- Prep the Chicken
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides.
- Sear the Chicken
- Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken and sear until golden brown on both sides (about 4–5 minutes per side), until cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).
- Remove chicken from skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium.
- Add remaining 2 tbsp butter and the minced garlic. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant (don’t burn it!).
- Add lemon juice, lemon zest, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning. Stir and simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Return Chicken to Pan
- Place the chicken back in the skillet, spoon the sauce over the top, and simmer for another 2–3 minutes to heat through and let the flavors combine.
- Serve
- Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices. Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or over pasta.
🍴 Tips & Variations:
- Creamy twist: Add 1/4 cup heavy cream to the sauce for a creamy lemon garlic butter chicken.
- Add veggies: Toss in spinach, asparagus, or green beans during the simmer step.
- Use bone-in thighs: Just adjust cook time slightly longer and sear with skin side down first.