This One-Pan Lemon Butter Chicken is a simple, comforting dinner you can make any night of the week. It’s quick, flavorful, and made with everyday ingredients—all in one pan.
Perfect for busy people, moms, and anyone who wants a healthy, family-friendly meal without extra cleanup.
Tested & Approved
This recipe has been tested in our kitchen and approved by our family for its flavor, simplicity, and reliable results.
Quick Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
(All ingredients are halal-friendly)
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (or oregano)
- Juice of 1 large lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- ½ cup chicken broth (halal-certified)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon slices (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.
- Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken and sear for 5–6 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Scrape the pan to release any browned bits.
- Return the chicken to the pan and simmer for 12–15 minutes, spooning the sauce over the chicken, until fully cooked.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices before serving.
Tips, Variations & Storage
Substitutions
- Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
- For dairy-free, replace butter with extra olive oil.
- Add vegetables like green beans, spinach, or zucchini for a complete one-pan meal.
Make-Ahead
- Season the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and store covered in the fridge.
Storage
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months.
Serving Ideas
- Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, quinoa, or crusty bread.
- Pair with a simple green salad for a lighter meal.
FAQ
Can I bake this instead of using a skillet?
Yes. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes, basting with sauce halfway through.
How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Can I make this spicy?
Absolutely—add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to taste.
Nutrition Facts (approximate, per serving)
- Calories per serving: 380
- Protein: 35 g
- Carbs: 6 g
- Fat: 24 g
Conclusion
This One-Pan Lemon Butter Chicken recipe is simple, flavorful, and perfect for busy families and weeknight dinners. Give it a try and let us know how it turned out!