Lemon Butter Chicken Supreme Recipe

If you’re looking to impress with something that feels both luxurious and comfortingly simple, the Lemon Butter Chicken Supreme is your new best friend. This dish combines the bright, citrusy zing of fresh lemon with rich, velvety butter, turning humble chicken breasts into a masterpiece of flavor. Whether it’s for a midweek dinner that needs a little sparkle or a weekend treat to share, this recipe hits all the right notes—juicy, fragrant, and totally crave-worthy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key, and fortunately, this recipe calls for just a handful of basics that work beautifully together. Each element plays a vital role, from the tender chicken breast bringing the star protein, to lemon juice that awakens the palate, and butter delivering that irresistible richness.

• Chicken Breast: Choose skinless, boneless pieces for even cooking and a tender bite every time.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is best to provide a bright, natural citrus flavor that elevates the sauce.
• Butter: Use unsalted for control over seasoning; it adds smoothness and a luscious texture to the sauce.
• Garlic: Minced finely, garlic enhances depth and infuses the chicken with savory warmth.

How to Make Lemon Butter Chicken Supreme

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This simple step ensures a golden crust when searing. Lightly season both sides with salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavor of the meat.

Step 2: Pan-Sear the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a little butter or oil. Place the chicken breasts in the hot pan and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness. You want a nicely browned exterior but juicy, fully cooked chicken inside.

Step 3: Create the Lemon Butter Sauce

Once the chicken is almost done, lower the heat and add more butter to the pan. Toss in the minced garlic and let it soften and release its aroma without burning. Then pour in the fresh lemon juice, stirring well as the sauce comes together, coating the chicken in a glossy, fragrant finish.

Step 4: Let the Flavors Marry

Turn off the heat and let the chicken rest in the sauce for a couple of minutes. This allows the buttery lemon essence to seep into every bite, making it truly a Lemon Butter Chicken Supreme experience.

How to Serve Lemon Butter Chicken Supreme

Garnishes

Finishing the dish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or finely sliced chives adds a pop of color and a subtle herbaceous note that complements the richness and citrus beautifully.

Side Dishes

Serve this chicken with simple, fresh sides like steamed asparagus, roasted baby potatoes, or a light mixed green salad. These offer balance and let the Lemon Butter Chicken Supreme remain the focus of the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, consider plating the chicken sliced over a bed of fluffy couscous or creamy risotto. Drizzle the lemon butter sauce generously on top and garnish with lemon zest curls to amplify the dish’s elegance.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and the chicken moist for another quick meal.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap the chicken tightly with plastic wrap and then in foil or a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain texture and taste.

Reheating

Warm up the leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave at medium power. Add a splash of chicken broth or a small knob of butter if the sauce looks too thick, ensuring the chicken remains succulent.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add more juiciness and a richer flavor, which pairs wonderfully with the lemon butter sauce. Just adjust cooking time accordingly as thighs may take a bit longer.

Is it necessary to use fresh lemon juice?

Yes, fresh lemon juice really makes a difference. It provides a bright, fresh acidity that bottled lemon juice often lacks, giving you that signature zing in the Lemon Butter Chicken Supreme.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

To keep it dairy-free, substitute butter with a plant-based alternative like vegan margarine or olive oil, and the dish will still have lovely richness though slightly different in texture.

What wine pairs well with Lemon Butter Chicken Supreme?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay complements the citrus and buttery notes excellently, enhancing your dining experience.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The safest way is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, cutting into the thickest part to check that the juices run clear works too.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Butter Chicken Supreme is truly a recipe you’ll want to keep close by for any occasion that calls for effortless elegance. With its perfect balance of bright and buttery flavors, it brings a little sunshine to the dinner table that’s both comforting and special. I promise once you make it, it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to meals. Give it a try and watch it brighten your day!