Lemon Butter Chicken Supreme Recipe
If you’re craving a dish that truly brightens up your dinner table, the Lemon Butter Chicken Supreme is an absolute must-try. This delightful recipe combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with the vibrant zing of fresh lemon juice and the rich creaminess of butter, creating an irresistible blend of flavors that feel both fancy and comforting at the same time. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this dish never fails to impress with its glossy finish and fragrant garlic undertones. Once you taste it, you’ll understand why the name Lemon Butter Chicken Supreme fits it so perfectly!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the secret to nailing this recipe every time. Each element plays a crucial role: the chicken breast delivers juicy protein, lemon juice adds refreshing brightness, butter ensures a luscious sauce, and garlic brings depth with its aromatic punch.
- Chicken Breast: Choose boneless, skinless breasts for a tender and quick-cooking main.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is key for that sharp citrus pop that livens the dish.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter to mellow the flavors and make the sauce silky smooth.
- Garlic: Minced fresh garlic infuses the sauce with that warm, savory kick.
How to Make Lemon Butter Chicken Supreme
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Start by heating a pan over medium-high heat and letting a little butter melt until bubbly. Place your seasoned chicken breasts into the pan, allowing them to sear undisturbed until golden on one side before flipping. This step locks in the juices and gives your chicken that beautiful, appetizing crust.
Step 2: Create the Lemon Butter Sauce
Once your chicken is nearly cooked through, reduce the heat and add minced garlic right into the pan. Stir until fragrant, then pour in fresh lemon juice followed by a generous knob of butter. As the butter melts, it emulsifies with the lemon juice and garlic to form a glossy, aromatic sauce that coats your chicken perfectly.
Step 3: Finish Cooking and Rest
Let the chicken simmer gently in the lemon butter sauce for a couple more minutes until fully cooked and tender. Remove the chicken to a plate and spoon the sauce over the top. Allow it to rest briefly — this helps all those lovely flavors meld together beautifully.
How to Serve Lemon Butter Chicken Supreme
Garnishes
To amplify the fresh, vibrant notes, I love sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or thyme on top. A few thin lemon slices or extra lemon zest adds an eye-catching finish that invites everyone to dig in.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides like steamed asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, or even a light Mediterranean couscous salad. The bright lemon butter sauce complements fresh veggies and grain-based sides alike, keeping the meal light but satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a slightly elegant twist, serve the chicken supreme over a bed of creamy polenta or alongside roasted baby potatoes tossed in herbs. Drizzle some extra lemon butter sauce on the plate for a restaurant-quality presentation that’s sure to wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftovers of the Lemon Butter Chicken Supreme in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce keeps the chicken moist and flavorful, making your next meal just as delicious.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this ahead of time, freeze the cooked chicken and lemon butter sauce separately in freezer-safe containers. They’ll last up to 2 months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low-medium heat, spooning the lemon butter sauce over the chicken to keep it moist. Avoid microwaving if possible, as slow reheating preserves the sauce’s texture and flavor far better.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work well with this recipe and offer a slightly richer flavor. Just adjust cooking time to ensure they’re fully cooked and tender.
What can I substitute for butter?
You can try olive oil for a lighter sauce, but butter is what gives this dish its signature silky texture and richness.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! All ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this meal suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
How do I get the sauce extra glossy?
Make sure to emulsify the lemon juice and butter well by stirring continuously as the butter melts. Adding a small splash of chicken broth can also help lift the sauce to a lovely shine.
Can I add herbs to the sauce?
Definitely! Fresh thyme, rosemary, or even dill complement the lemon and garlic beautifully. Add them during the sauce step to infuse subtle layers of flavor.
Final Thoughts
Once you’ve tried this Lemon Butter Chicken Supreme, it’s sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire. It’s incredibly versatile, quick to make, and packed with fresh flavors that celebrate the simple joy of good ingredients coming together. So go ahead—bring a little sunshine to your table with this truly special dish!
