Lemon Chicken with BEST Lemon Butter Sauce

Few dinners strike the perfect balance between elegance and ease quite like Lemon Chicken with the BEST Lemon Butter Sauce. This recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken breasts coated in a crisp Parmesan crust, all finished with a glossy, buttery lemon sauce that’s bright, rich, and deeply satisfying. Best of all, it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it equally suited for busy weeknights and special occasions.

With nearly flawless ratings and thousands of home cooks returning to it again and again, this dish has earned its reputation as a reliable favorite. The combination of golden-crusted chicken, fresh citrus, and savory butter sauce is timeless, comforting, and universally loved.

In this article, you’ll find a fully accurate, step-by-step, SEO-optimized guide to making this Lemon Chicken exactly as written—no changes to ingredients, no guesswork, and no inconsistencies. Every detail is carefully explained so you can achieve perfect results every time.

Introduction

Lemon chicken is one of those dishes that feels both classic and fresh. The bright acidity of lemon cuts through the richness of butter and cheese, creating a balanced flavor that never feels heavy. This particular recipe stands out because it layers flavor thoughtfully: a Parmesan-crusted exterior for texture, a tender chicken interior, and a silky lemon butter sauce that ties everything together.

What makes this version especially appealing is how approachable it is. You don’t need complicated techniques, specialty tools, or hours in the kitchen. The chicken cooks quickly in a skillet, the sauce comes together in minutes, and the end result looks and tastes like something you’d order at a restaurant.

This Lemon Chicken recipe is perfect for:

• Weeknight dinners when time is limited
• Family meals that need to please everyone
• Entertaining guests without stress
• Anyone who loves bold, fresh flavors

Once you make it, it’s easy to see why it’s become a staple in so many kitchens.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish
• Crispy Parmesan crust with tender, juicy chicken
• Bright, buttery lemon sauce that enhances every bite
• Made entirely on the stovetop
• Simple ingredients with big flavor payoff
• Beginner-friendly yet impressive enough for guests

Ingredients Breakdown

This recipe serves 4 people. All ingredients and measurements are listed exactly as provided to ensure accuracy and consistency.

Ingredients for Parmesan Crusted Chicken

• 1 1/2 lb chicken breast (2 large), patted dry with paper towels
• 1 Tbsp olive oil, to sauté
• 1 Tbsp parsley, to garnish (optional)
• 1/2 lemon, sliced for garnish (optional)

For the Egg Mixture

• 2 large eggs
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper

For the Parmesan Breading Mixture

• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 3 Tbsp all-purpose flour

Ingredients for Lemon Butter Sauce

• 8 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper

Tools & Equipment Needed

To prepare this recipe smoothly, gather the following kitchen tools:

• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Meat mallet
• Mixing bowls (2)
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Large non-stick skillet
• Saucepan
• Tongs
• Instant-read thermometer

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for best results. Each stage is designed to build flavor and ensure perfectly cooked chicken.

1. Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thinner cutlets. Lightly beat each piece with a meat mallet until the thickness is even. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and stays tender.

2. Make the Egg Mixture

In a bowl, whisk together:

• 2 large eggs
• 1 minced garlic clove
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper

Set aside.

3. Make the Parmesan Breading

In a separate bowl, combine:

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 Tbsp all-purpose flour

Mix until evenly combined.

4. Bread the Chicken

Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off. Then dredge the chicken in the Parmesan mixture, pressing lightly so the coating adheres. Shake off any excess breading.

5. Cook the Chicken

Heat enough olive oil to cover the bottom of a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken.

Cook for 4–5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is crispy, golden brown, and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Reduce the heat if the chicken browns too quickly.

Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and keep warm.

6. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

While the chicken cooks, prepare the sauce in a separate saucepan. Melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.

Stir in:

• Chicken broth
• Lemon juice
• Ground black pepper

Allow the sauce to cook for about 2 minutes, just until combined and slightly thickened.

7. Finish the Dish

Pour the lemon butter sauce over the cooked chicken, turning each piece to coat evenly. Garnish with lemon slices and finely chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

Cooking Tips

• Pat the chicken dry before breading to help the coating stick.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for best texture and flavor.
• Monitor heat carefully to prevent burning the cheese crust.

Dietary Variations

• Gluten-Free: Replace flour with a gluten-free alternative.
• Low-Carb: Reduce flour slightly and rely on Parmesan for coating.
• Dairy-Free: Not recommended for this recipe due to butter and Parmesan.

Flavor Adjustments

• Increase lemon juice slightly for extra brightness.
• Add a pinch of additional black pepper to the sauce for more depth.

Flavor Profile & Texture

This Lemon Chicken delivers a satisfying contrast of textures: a crispy, golden crust gives way to juicy, tender chicken. The lemon butter sauce is smooth, rich, and tangy, coating each bite without overpowering it. The garlic adds warmth, while the lemon keeps everything fresh and balanced.

Nutritional Overview

This is a protein-rich, indulgent main course designed for satisfaction rather than lightness.

Per serving:

• Calories: 560 kcal
• Protein: 46 g
• Fat: 38 g
• Carbohydrates: 9 g

Dietary notes:

• Nut-free
• Contains dairy and gluten

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Chicken can be sliced and pounded in advance.
• Egg and Parmesan mixtures can be prepared ahead and refrigerated.
• Sauce is best made fresh but can be gently reheated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead?

This recipe is written specifically for chicken breast. Substitutions may affect cooking time and texture.

Why is my Parmesan crust browning too fast?

Lower the heat slightly and ensure the oil isn’t too hot.

Can I make the sauce in the same skillet?

The recipe specifies a separate saucepan for best control and consistency.

How do I know the chicken is done?

Use an instant-read thermometer; it should read 165°F.

Is fresh lemon juice required?

Yes, fresh lemon juice provides the correct flavor balance.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Stage	Time
Prep Time	18 minutes
Cook Time	12 minutes
Total Time	30 minutes

Serving Suggestions

• Serve immediately while the crust is crisp.
• Spoon extra sauce over the chicken just before serving.
• Garnish lightly for a clean, elegant presentation.

Recipe Variations (Using the Same Ingredients)

• Slice cooked chicken and spoon sauce over pasta or rice.
• Serve as a chicken cutlet with extra sauce on the side.
• Use thinner cutlets for extra-crispy results.

Ingredient Spotlight

Parmesan Cheese

Parmesan provides saltiness, umami, and a crisp crust when pan-fried.

Tip: Grate fresh for better melting and browning.

Lemon Juice

Fresh lemon juice balances the richness of butter and cheese.

Tip: Roll lemons before juicing to release more juice.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Even thickness is key to perfectly cooked chicken.
• Let the chicken rest briefly before saucing to keep it juicy.
• Use a non-stick skillet to protect the Parmesan crust.

Storage & Freezing Guide

Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Freezing is not recommended due to the Parmesan crust and butter sauce.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	560 kcal
Protein	46 g
Carbohydrates	9 g
Fat	38 g
Saturated Fat	20 g
Sodium	1109 mg

Dietary notes: Nut-free, contains dairy and gluten.

Expanded Conclusion

Lemon Chicken with the BEST Lemon Butter Sauce is proof that simple ingredients, treated with care, can create extraordinary results. Crispy, golden chicken paired with a bright, buttery sauce makes this dish both comforting and refined. It’s quick enough for weeknights, impressive enough for guests, and reliable enough to become a regular in your recipe rotation.

If you’re looking for a foolproof chicken dinner that delivers on flavor, texture, and presentation, this recipe is a must-try. Once you make it, you’ll understand why it’s earned such a devoted following—and why it deserves a spot on your table.

Print