Introduction
Are you tired of dry, flavorless chicken dinners? You are not alone. We all want a meal that is healthy, quick, and tastes like it came from a restaurant kitchen. This Grilled Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce is your answer.
It is the perfect balance of smoky, charred meat and a rich, tangy sauce. Best of all, it takes less than 20 minutes from prep to plate. Whether you are hosting a summer barbecue or need a quick weeknight meal, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
In this guide, you will learn exactly how to grill juicy chicken breasts and whisk up a creamy, zesty lemon butter sauce that will have your family asking for seconds.
Why This Recipe Works
Before we fire up the grill, here is why this dish is a winner:
- High Protein, Low Carb: It fits perfectly into Keto, Paleo, and gluten-free diets.
- Simple Ingredients: You likely have everything you need in your pantry already.
- Versatile: The sauce isn’t just for chicken; it works wonders on fish and roasted vegetables too.
- Quick Cooking Time: High-heat grilling seals in juices instantly, preventing dryness.
Ingredients You Will Need
To get that restaurant-quality taste, fresh ingredients are key. Here is your shopping list:
For the Chicken
- Chicken Breasts: 2 large boneless, skinless breasts (pounded to even thickness).
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon for coating.
- Seasoning Blend: 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon (freshly squeezed).
For the Lemon Butter Sauce
- Unsalted Butter: 4 tablespoons, cold and cubed.
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced fine.
- Chicken Broth: ¼ cup (low sodium is best).
- Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons.
- Heavy Cream: 1 tablespoon (optional, for extra creaminess).
- Parsley: Freshly chopped for garnish.
Pro Tip: Always use unsalted butter so you can control the saltiness of your sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to master Grilled Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce.
1. Prep the Chicken
Place your chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or a rolling pin to pound them until they are about ½-inch thick. This ensures they cook evenly and stay juicy.
2. Season Generously
In a small bowl, mix the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub the chicken with olive oil and the lemon juice, then coat both sides with your spice mix. Let it sit for 5 minutes while the grill heats up.
3. Grill to Perfection
Preheat your grill (or grill pan) to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C).
- Place the chicken on the grill.
- Cook for 4–5 minutes per side.
- Look for distinct grill marks and an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from heat and let it rest. Do not skip resting—this keeps the juices inside!
4. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
While the chicken rests, place a small skillet over medium heat.
- Melt 1 tablespoon of butter.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant (do not burn).
- Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Turn the heat to low. Whisk in the remaining cold butter one cube at a time until the sauce is glossy and thickened.
- Stir in the heavy cream (if using) and remove from heat immediately.
5. Assemble and Serve
Place the grilled chicken on a serving platter. Drizzle the warm lemon butter sauce generously over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.
Expert Tips for Success
Want to make sure your Grilled Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce is 100% perfect? Keep these tips in mind:
- Don’t Overcook: Chicken breast dries out fast. Use a meat thermometer to pull it off the heat exactly at 165°F.
- Cold Butter is Key: When making the sauce, using cold butter helps it emulsify (thicken) properly rather than separating into a greasy mess.
- Room Temp Chicken: Take your chicken out of the fridge 15 minutes before grilling. Cold meat on a hot grill cooks unevenly.
Variations and Substitutions
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red chili flakes to the lemon butter sauce.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter for high-quality vegan butter or olive oil (though the texture will be less creamy).
- Different Protein: This exact marinade and sauce combination is delicious on salmon or shrimp.
- Fresh Herbs: Swap parsley for fresh dill or thyme for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
What should you serve alongside this dish? Here are a few low-effort options:
- Garlic Roasted Asparagus: The lemon sauce complements the asparagus perfectly.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: Great for soaking up the extra sauce.
- Greek Salad: A fresh, crunchy side to balance the rich butter sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this recipe in a pan?
Yes! If you don’t have a grill, you can sear the chicken in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat for the same amount of time.
How do I store leftovers?
Store the chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave to avoid rubbery chicken.
Is this recipe Keto-friendly?
Absolutely. With high protein and healthy fats from the butter, this recipe is perfect for Keto and low-carb diets.
Conclusion
There you have it—a restaurant-quality Grilled Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce that you can make at home in under 20 minutes. It’s simple, delicious, and guaranteed to impress.
