Lemon Butter Chicken is a mouth-watering dish that combines the bright, citrusy flavor of lemon with the richness of butter, all wrapped up in a tender and juicy chicken breasts. This classic recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in, and its versatility allows for a range of variations to suit any taste. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a dish that's sure to impress. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a culinary novice, Lemon Butter Chicken is a recipe that's sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Lemon Butter Chicken Recipe
Ingredients:
* 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
* 2 lemons, juiced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
* 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
* Salt and pepper, to taste
* 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
* 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional)
Cooking Steps:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the lemon juice, garlic, and lemon zest, and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
3. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place the chicken in a baking dish and brush the lemon butter sauce evenly over the top of each breast.
4. If using white wine and chicken broth, pour the liquids into the baking dish, making sure the chicken is not submerged in the liquid.
5. Bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove the chicken from the oven and brush with additional lemon butter sauce, if desired. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Tips and Variations:
* For an extra burst of lemon flavor, add a sprinkle of lemon zest on top of the chicken before baking.
* Substitute fresh thyme or rosemary for the parsley for a different herb flavor.
* Add some spice to your Lemon Butter Chicken by sprinkling a pinch of red pepper flakes on top of the chicken.
* For a creamy twist, add 1-2 tablespoons of heavy cream or Greek yogurt to the lemon butter sauce before brushing it on the chicken.
* Use chicken thighs or drumsticks for a more tender and juicy result.
* For a Mediterranean-inspired dish, substitute the chicken broth with chicken broth infused with saffron and garlic.
Other Variations:
* Lemon Butter Shrimp: Replace the chicken with 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined.
* Lemon Butter Salmon: Replace the chicken with 4 salmon fillets, skin removed.
* Lemon Butter Pork Chops: Replace the chicken with 4 pork chops, 1-inch thick.
* Lemon Butter Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and add roasted or sautéed vegetables, such as asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini, to the lemon butter sauce.
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