Name: Lemon Chicken Recipe with Lemon Butter Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 eggs, beaten; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

This parmesan-crusted lemon chicken is a quick and flavorful dish that's perfect for busy weeknights. The crispy chicken cutlets are paired with a zesty lemon butter sauce, creating a delightful balance of textures and flavors.

Why I Love This Recipe

I appreciate how this recipe combines simplicity with gourmet taste. The lemon butter sauce adds a bright, tangy flavor that complements the crispy chicken perfectly. It's a dish that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen. I love how quickly it comes together and how satisfying it is every single time.

Ingredients

(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
All-purpose flour
Parmesan cheese, grated
Eggs
Unsalted butter
Olive oil
Garlic cloves, minced
Fresh lemon juice
Chicken broth
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

I slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to make thinner cutlets.
I season both sides of the cutlets with salt and pepper.
I dredge each piece in flour, then dip it in beaten eggs, and coat it generously with grated Parmesan cheese.
I heat a mix of butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
I cook the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side until it's golden and cooked through.
I remove the chicken and set it aside.
In the same skillet, I add minced garlic and cook it until fragrant.
I pour in lemon juice and chicken broth, scraping up any bits stuck to the pan.
I let the sauce simmer for a couple of minutes to reduce slightly.
I return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over it.
I finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 4 servings. It takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, so I usually have it ready in 30 minutes total. It’s perfect for a busy evening when I still want something homemade and satisfying.

Variations

Add capers for a briny punch to the sauce
Use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer flavor
Sprinkle in red pepper flakes to add heat
Mix in a splash of cream at the end for a silky, richer sauce
Finish with fresh herbs like basil or thyme for an aromatic twist

Storage and Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, I freeze the cooked chicken (without the sauce) for up to 2 months. When reheating, I prefer using the oven at 350°F to keep the crust crisp. I also reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop and pour it over just before serving.

FAQs

How do I keep the chicken crispy after cooking?

I avoid covering the chicken tightly and reheat it in the oven or skillet instead of the microwave to preserve the crust.

Can I prep this dish ahead of time?

Yes, I sometimes bread the chicken in advance and store it in the fridge until I’m ready to cook. It saves me time when I need a fast dinner.

What side dishes go well with this?

I like serving it with roasted potatoes, a fresh salad, or pasta to soak up the lemon sauce.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, I skip the Parmesan and use a dairy-free butter alternative for the sauce. The results are still flavorful and satisfying.

Is it okay to use bottled lemon juice?

I prefer fresh lemon juice for the best flavor, but bottled works in a pinch. I just make sure to adjust to taste since it's usually more concentrated.

Conclusion

This lemon chicken recipe is one of my favorite go-to meals. It’s quick, full of flavor, and feels like something I’d get at a restaurant. The crispy chicken and bright lemon butter sauce make a combination I always look forward to. Whether I’m cooking for myself or company, this dish always hits the mark.