If you’re craving a dinner that is bursting with flavor yet comes together quickly, you have to try this Skillet Garlic Lemon Butter Chicken Recipe. It’s a delightful combination of crispy parmesan-coated chicken paired with bright lemon butter sauce, all cooked in one pan for easy cleanup. The tender green beans soak up the garlicky goodness, making every bite a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and buttery. This recipe is an absolute winner for busy weeknights or any time you want a comforting, restaurant-quality meal at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating the perfect flavor harmony, whether it’s the crunch of parmesan, the zing of lemon, or the richness of butter. Gather these straightforward staples to get started on your delicious journey.
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour: Creates a light coating for extra crispy chicken texture.
- 2 tablespoons grated parmesan: Adds a nutty, savory depth that crisps up beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides the perfect sear and helps keep the chicken juicy.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the chicken with a subtle garlicky warmth.
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings a herby, Mediterranean flair to the sauce.
- 1 ¼ pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs): The tender protein star of the dish.
- ¼ cup lemon juice: Brightens the sauce with fresh, sharp citrus notes.
- 1 lemon, sliced: Adds a zesty aroma and cooking flavor.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Boosts the sauce with aromatic intensity.
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes: Gives the sauce a gentle kick without overpowering.
- 4 tablespoons cold butter, cubed: Creates a silky, rich finish to the lemon sauce.
- 12 ounces green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces: Adds a fresh, crisp vegetable element that balances the richness perfectly.
How to Make Skillet Garlic Lemon Butter Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Coat the Chicken
Start by mixing the flour, grated parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish. This mixture will create that irresistible crispy coating. Dredge your chicken breasts or thighs on both sides, shaking off any excess for even browning. The parmesan and flour combo gives the chicken a golden crust that locks in juicy tenderness.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken pieces. Let them cook undisturbed for 4 to 6 minutes per side, depending on thickness, so they develop that beautiful golden crust. While the chicken cooks, you’ll have plenty of time to get your delicious lemon garlic butter sauce ready.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine lemon juice, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. Let the mixture simmer and reduce until it reaches about 3 tablespoons. Then, whisk in cold butter cubes one at a time off the heat to create a luscious, silky sauce. The slow melting of butter is essential to get that smooth finish that clings beautifully to the chicken and veggies.
Step 4: Cook the Vegetables and Assemble the Dish
After removing the chicken, add a drizzle of oil to the same skillet if needed, then toss in the lemon slices, using tongs to stir them around and collect any flavorful bits left behind. Add the green beans and sauté for 3 to 5 minutes until tender but still crisp. Season with salt, pepper, and the remaining garlic powder. Plate the green beans and lemon slices, then nestle the golden chicken on top and drizzle the signature lemon butter sauce all over.
How to Serve Skillet Garlic Lemon Butter Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil adds a pop of color and fresh herbaceous brightness that perfectly complements the tangy lemon butter sauce. Thinly sliced lemon zest or additional parmesan shavings can also elevate the presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
Serve this dish alongside creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or buttery noodles to soak up all the luscious sauce. A simple mixed green salad with vinaigrette would bring a refreshing counterpoint that balances the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more casual but fun presentation, serve the chicken and vegetables directly from the skillet, letting everyone help themselves. You could also place the chicken on a bed of cooked quinoa or couscous and drizzle the lemon butter sauce over the top for a stunning plate. For a bit of crunch, add toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds as a finishing touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover skillet garlic lemon butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the chicken moist, it’s best to store the sauce separately and add it back when reheating.
Freezing
If you want to freeze, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or extra lemon butter sauce to prevent the chicken from drying out. Warm until heated through but avoid overcooking to keep it tender.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are just as delicious, and their slightly higher fat content makes them extra juicy. Just adjust the cooking time as thighs might take a minute or two longer to cook through.
Is it necessary to use parmesan in the flour coating?
While you can skip parmesan, it really makes a difference in flavor and texture. It crisps up the chicken beautifully and adds a subtle nutty flavor that’s essential to this recipe’s charm.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour to keep the coating crispy without gluten concerns.
What can I substitute for fresh lemon juice?
If fresh lemon juice isn’t available, bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch, but fresh juice will always deliver the brightest, freshest flavor for this skillet garlic lemon butter chicken recipe.
How spicy is this dish?
The red pepper flakes add a mild warmth that enhances the flavor without making it overly spicy. You can adjust the quantity or omit them if you prefer a completely mild dish.
Final Thoughts
This Skillet Garlic Lemon Butter Chicken Recipe is a keeper for anyone looking for a simple yet impressive meal packed with flavor. From the crispy parmesan crust to the buttery lemon sauce and perfectly sautéed green beans, it’s a combination that will wow your taste buds and have everyone asking for seconds. Don’t hesitate to make this recipe your new favorite weeknight dinner—it’s easy, fast, and incredibly satisfying.
Print
Skillet Garlic Lemon Butter Chicken Recipe
This Skillet Garlic Lemon Butter Chicken recipe is a quick and easy one-pan meal featuring crispy parmesan-coated chicken breasts cooked to perfection, sautéed green beans, and a tangy, buttery garlic lemon sauce that brings all the flavors together beautifully.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
Chicken
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (divided)
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt (divided)
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper (divided)
- 1 ¼ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Sauce
- ¼ cup lemon juice
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 4 tablespoons cold butter, cubed
Vegetables
- 12 ounces green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken coating: In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, parmesan, ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon pepper. Coat each piece of chicken thoroughly on both sides, then shake off excess flour.
- Cook the chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Place the coated chicken pieces in the skillet and cook for 4-6 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Make the garlic lemon butter sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine lemon juice, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. Reduce the mixture until about 3 tablespoons remain. Remove from heat and whisk in one tablespoon of cold butter at a time, swirling the pan until each piece is fully melted before adding the next. Once all butter is incorporated, remove sauce from stove and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables and assemble: Add a small drizzle of oil to the skillet used for chicken (if needed). Add lemon slices and move them around the pan with tongs, scraping up any browned bits. Add the green beans and sauté for 3-5 minutes until tender to your preference. Season with salt, pepper, and the remaining ¼ teaspoon garlic powder. Serve the chicken atop the green beans and drizzle the garlic lemon butter sauce over the top or serve on the side.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier alternative.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the spiciness.
- The sauce can be prepared ahead and gently reheated before serving.
- Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Ensure the butter is cold when adding to the sauce for proper emulsification.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
