Name: Lemon Chicken with Best Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lb chicken breast (2 large), patted dry with paper towels; 1 Tbsp olive oil (to sauté); 2 large eggs; 1 garlic clove, minced (for egg mixture); 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; 1/4 cup chicken broth; 1/4 tsp ground black pepper; 1 Tbsp parsley, chopped; 1/2 lemon, sliced

I am absolutely thrilled to share my Lemon Chicken with Best Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe because it’s hands-down one of my all-time favorite dishes to prepare when I want something bright, comforting, and utterly satisfying. The tender chicken coated in a crispy Parmesan crust, paired with the zesty, velvety lemon butter sauce, creates a harmony of flavors that always makes me want seconds. This dish brings a fresh, vibrant taste to my dinner table with minimal fuss and maximum flavor, proving that sometimes the simplest ingredients can lead to unforgettable meals.

Why You'll Love This Lemon Chicken with Best Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe

From the first time I tried this lemon chicken, I was hooked on its perfect balance of flavors. The tangy brightness of the lemon juice cuts through the rich, buttery garlic sauce, and that crispy Parmesan coating on the chicken adds such an irresistibly savory crunch. Every bite feels like a burst of sunshine, which I find perfect for lifting the mood of any meal.

What I truly adore about this recipe is how straightforward it is to prepare without sacrificing any of the gourmet appeal. It comes together quickly, making it a go-to for busy weeknights when I want something impressive but not complicated. Plus, I love that the sauce is made right alongside the chicken without needing separate complicated steps or special equipment.

This dish feels just right for a range of occasions too—whether I’m making a cozy family dinner or serving guests for a casual weekend lunch. The bright lemon flavor and buttery richness feel both elegant and comforting, making it one of those rare recipes that hits all the right notes every time I make it.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows several small white bowls and ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. One white bowl contains small cubes of pale yellow butter. Another small white bowl holds chopped green herbs. There is a small white dish with a little bit of coarse salt. Two whole yellow lemons and a halved lemon are placed directly on the white marbled background. A single garlic clove and a wooden pepper grinder with a light brown tone are also visible. A clear glass bowl contains a pale yellow liquid, likely lemon juice. A woman's hand is about to reach towards the lemon halves. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Lemon Chicken with Best Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe is found in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in shaping the taste and texture of the dish—from the juicy chicken breasts to the aromatic garlic and the fresh lemon juice that ties everything together.

TIP : You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below

Chicken breast: Choosing fresh, large chicken breasts ensures juicy, tender meat after cooking.
Olive oil: Great for sautéing the chicken to get that golden, crispy crust without overpowering the flavor.
Parsley: Adds a pop of fresh green and a hint of herbal brightness for garnish.
Lemon slices: Perfect for garnishing and adding a fresh citrus scent to the dish.
Eggs: Act as the perfect binding layer for the Parmesan coating to stick to the chicken.
Garlic cloves: Essential for infusing both the chicken and sauce with warm, aromatic depth.
Italian seasoning: Adds a subtle herbaceous note that complements the lemon beautifully.
Salt and pepper: Basic seasonings to enhance all the natural flavors perfectly.
Parmesan cheese: The key to that deliciously crispy crust that adds texture and umami in every bite.
All-purpose flour: Lightly dusting helps the coating adhere and develop a nice crunch.
Unsalted butter: Forms the luscious base for the sauce that carries the lemon and garlic flavors.
Lemon juice: The star ingredient in the sauce providing fresh citrus zing that brightens the whole dish.
Chicken broth: Adds a savory depth to the lemon butter sauce, balancing richness with a mild stock flavor.

Directions

Step 1: Begin by slicing the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thinner cutlets. Then, use a meat mallet to gently pound them until they are even in thickness—this ensures they cook evenly and stay tender.

Step 2: In one bowl, whisk together the eggs, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to create the egg mixture. In a separate bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese and all-purpose flour. Dip each chicken piece first into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off, then dredge it thoroughly in the Parmesan-flour mixture to coat completely.

Step 3: Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the coated chicken cutlets. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side or until the crust is golden brown and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. If the chicken browns too quickly, reduce the heat to avoid burning.

Step 4: While the chicken cooks, melt the unsalted butter in a separate saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant but not browned, about 1 minute. Next, stir in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and black pepper. Simmer the sauce for about 2 minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 5: Once the chicken is cooked through, transfer it to a serving plate and pour the lemon butter sauce over the top. Turn each piece gently to coat in the sauce. For a beautiful finish, garnish with lemon slices and finely chopped parsley, if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 4 generous servings, perfect for a small family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends. The prep time is about 10 minutes, with an active cook time of roughly 20 minutes, so you can have this delicious meal on the table in just around 30 minutes total. There’s no resting time required, which means this meal is practically ready as soon as it’s cooked—ideal for those times when you want something quick and satisfying.

How to Serve This Lemon Chicken with Best Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe

A white plate holds two golden-brown cooked pieces of chicken layered on top of green zucchini sticks and yellow squash slices at the bottom right side. To the left of the chicken, there is a creamy white mash, topped with a slice of lemon partially under the chicken. The chicken pieces are garnished with small green herb pieces and small bits of garlic or onion. A silver spoon rests on the plate near the zucchini and yellow squash. The plate is on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

When I serve this lemon chicken, I love pairing it with crisp, fresh sides that complement the bright, buttery sauce. Steamed asparagus, roasted baby potatoes, or a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette work beautifully to keep the meal balanced and vibrant. The sauce’s richness really shines when paired with mildly flavored vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes.

For garnishing, sprinkling chopped parsley adds a lovely fresh hint and a pop of color, and the lemon slices aren’t just for looks—they bring a little extra zing when squeezed right before eating. I usually serve it plated individually, arranging two smaller cutlets per person with a drizzle of sauce on top to keep it elegant and inviting.

When it comes to drinks, I find a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay pairs perfectly with the lemony notes. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a twist of lemon or iced herbal tea complements the flavors beautifully. I usually serve this dish hot to enjoy the full aroma and texture of the crispy chicken and warm sauce, making it a real comfort dish for any occasion.

Variations

One of the things I love about this Lemon Chicken with Best Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe is how versatile it is. If you want a gluten-free version, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour, and use gluten-free breadcrumbs with the Parmesan. The flavor profile stays just as amazing.

If you’re looking to add a little twist, consider swapping out traditional chicken breasts for chicken thighs for an even juicier, more flavorful result. You can also experiment with adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the coating or sauce for a more aromatic touch that feels a little different but just as delicious.

For anyone wanting a completely vegan variation, I recommend using firm tofu or chickpea cutlets coated in a mixture of nutritional yeast, garlic powder, and flour, then cooked in vegan butter. Swap chicken broth with vegetable stock and lemon juice remains the key fresh ingredient—this way, you keep the spirit of the dish alive while tailoring it to a different diet.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your lemon chicken, I like to store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to use a glass or BPA-free plastic container with a tight-fitting lid to keep the chicken moist and maintain the flavor of the lemon butter sauce. The leftovers will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a convenient option for next-day meals.

Freezing

If you want to freeze this dish, it’s important to cool the chicken completely before freezing. Place the pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. The lemon butter sauce can be frozen separately in a small container. Frozen lemon chicken keeps for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

When reheating, I prefer to warm the chicken gently in a skillet over low to medium heat to preserve the crispiness of the Parmesan crust. You can add a splash of water or broth to keep the chicken moist and drizzle the lemon butter sauce over after heating. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the crust soggy and the chicken chewy. Using the stovetop or even a low oven bake helps restore the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and will add more richness and moisture to the dish. Just be sure to adjust cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through than breast cutlets.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your Parmesan and other ingredients are gluten-free. This simple swap won’t compromise the delicious flavor or texture.

Can I make the lemon butter sauce ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before pouring it over the cooked chicken to enjoy that fresh, buttery lemon flavor.

What is the best way to get the chicken crispy?

Make sure your oil is hot before adding the chicken and don't overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Also, pounding the chicken to even thickness ensures even cooking and helps develop a golden, crispy crust.

Can this dish be made dairy-free?

You can make it dairy-free by substituting butter with a plant-based butter alternative and using nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan in the coating. Although the flavor will be slightly different, it still makes for a tasty and creamy lemon chicken experience.

Conclusion

I hope you feel as excited as I do about trying this Lemon Chicken with Best Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe. It’s one of those dishes I return to again and again because it tastes incredible, comes together so easily, and never fails to impress. Whether it's for a busy weeknight or a special occasion, it’s a reliable crowd-pleaser that brings joy to the table. I can’t wait for you to make it your own and enjoy every delicious bite!