Simple Lemon Chicken is one of those recipes that proves great flavor doesn’t require complicated steps or a long ingredient list. Juicy chicken cutlets are pan-seared until golden, then finished in a light lemon butter sauce that’s fresh, savory, and perfectly balanced.
This easy lemon chicken recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for quick weeknight dinners, clean eating meals, or when you need something impressive with minimal effort. If you love skillet chicken dinners or bright citrus flavors, this dish belongs on your regular menu.
Ingredients for Simple Lemon Chicken
Ingredient Table
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken breasts | 2 large | Boneless, skinless |
| Salt & pepper | To taste | Seasoning |
| Garlic powder | ¼ tsp | Light flavor |
| All-purpose flour | As needed | For dredging |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | Cooking |
| Butter | 3 tbsp | Divided |
| Chicken broth | ½ cup | Low sodium |
| Lemon juice | 2 tbsp | Fresh |
| Lemon zest | From ½ lemon | Optional but recommended |
| Fresh parsley | Optional | Garnish |
Simple Lemon Chicken
- Total Time: 20 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Simple lemon chicken made in one skillet with a bright lemon butter sauce.
Ingredients
2 large chicken breasts
Salt & pepper to taste
1/4 tsp garlic powder
Flour for dredging
1 tbsp olive oil
3 tbsp butter
1/2 cup chicken broth
2 tbsp lemon juice
Zest of 1/2 lemon
Fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
1. Slice and season chicken.
2. Dredge lightly in flour.
3. Pan-sear chicken until golden.
4. Simmer lemon butter sauce.
5. Return chicken and cook through.
Notes
Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor.
Sauce thickens slightly as it cools.
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Step-by-Step Instructions and Helpful Tips
How to Make Simple Lemon Chicken
- Slice chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thin cutlets.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Lightly dredge chicken in flour, shaking off excess.
- Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
- Add chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, and remaining butter to the skillet.
- Simmer sauce for 2–3 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Return chicken to the skillet and cook until cooked through.
- Adjust seasoning and garnish with parsley if desired.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan cook in batches if needed.
- Pound chicken evenly if thickness varies.
- Let sauce reduce slightly for richer flavor.
Why This Recipe Works
The light flour coating helps the chicken brown beautifully while also thickening the sauce just enough to cling to each bite. Butter balances the acidity of the lemon, while chicken broth keeps the sauce light instead of heavy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Simple Lemon Chicken with:
- Steamed rice or quinoa
- Mashed potatoes
- Roasted vegetables
- Green beans or asparagus
- Simple side salad
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth to loosen the sauce.
Conclusion
Simple Lemon Chicken is fresh, fast, and full of flavor. With its bright lemon sauce and tender chicken, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll turn to again and again for easy, satisfying dinners.
Frequently Asked Questions About Simple Lemon Chicken
Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes, boneless skinless thighs work well but may need extra cook time.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, it’s light, protein-rich, and made with simple ingredients.
Can I skip the flour?
You can, but the sauce will be thinner.
Can I add garlic?
Yes, fresh garlic can be sautéed briefly before adding broth.