Lemon Butter Chicken With Rice

Name: Lemon Butter Chicken With Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; Juice and zest of 2 lemons; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 2 cups cooked rice; Lemon wedges, for garnish

Highlighted under: Feel-Good Food

When I first tried Lemon Butter Chicken with Rice, it transformed the way I viewed weeknight dinners. The bright, zesty flavor of the lemon paired beautifully with the rich butter, creating a sauce that brings the chicken to life. Plus, serving it over fluffy rice ensures every bite is a burst of flavor. I love this dish for its simplicity, and the way it effortlessly impresses both family and friends at the table has made it a go-to in my kitchen.

Created by

Harriet Collins

Last updated on 2026-02-08T00:28:38.094Z

My journey to create the perfect Lemon Butter Chicken was filled with testing different flavors and techniques. I discovered that using fresh lemon juice along with the zest maximizes the citrus punch in every bite. Pairing this with a hint of garlic and parsley truly elevates the dish.

Another tip I learned is searing the chicken on a high heat initially locks in the juices, ensuring a moist and flavorful meal. Trust me, the buttery lemon sauce draping over perfectly cooked rice almost feels like a warm embrace at the end of a long day!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright citrus flavor that wakes up your taste buds
Creamy butter glaze that enhances the succulent chicken
Easy to prepare yet impressive enough for any occasion

      

Perfecting the Chicken

For perfectly cooked chicken breasts, it's essential to achieve a golden brown exterior while ensuring they remain juicy inside. Start with medium-high heat when searing the chicken, which will help develop that rich color. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, but keep an eye on it; if you notice the edges browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly to prevent burning.

Using a meat thermometer is a great way to check for doneness. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F to be safe for consumption. If you're not sure, cut into the thickest part of the breast; the juices should run clear, not pink. This method ensures your chicken stays tender, not dry.

Crafting the Lemon Butter Sauce

The sauce is what truly elevates this dish, and using high-quality ingredients can make a notable difference in flavor. Opt for fresh lemons rather than bottled juice, as the freshness will enhance the brightness of the dish. Zesting before juicing can help release essential oils from the skin, adding depth to the sauce.

When making the sauce, it’s vital to lower the heat after sautéing the garlic to prevent it from burning, which can impart a bitter taste. You want to sauté the garlic just until fragrant—about 30 seconds—before introducing the butter and lemon. Stir continuously until the butter has melted and the sauce looks glossy and smooth.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup unsalted butter
Juice and zest of 2 lemons
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

For Serving

2 cups cooked rice
Lemon wedges, for garnish

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Cook the Rice

Start by cooking your rice according to package instructions. Keep it warm while you prepare the chicken.

Sear the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. Then, add the butter, lemon juice, and zest. Stir until the butter is melted and well combined.

Combine and Serve

Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it in the lemon butter sauce. Cook for another minute to heat through. Serve the chicken over a bed of rice, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.

Don’t forget to drizzle extra sauce over the rice for added flavor!

Pro Tips

To enhance the dish, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a slight kick. Also, make sure not to overcook the chicken to maintain its juiciness.

Making Rice: The Base of Your Dish

Cooking the rice can be simple, but it’s important to choose the right type for this dish. Long-grain rice, such as Basmati or Jasmine, works beautifully, offering a light and fluffy texture that complements the richness of the lemon butter sauce. Follow the package instructions for the best results, usually a 2:1 water-to-rice ratio.

If you want to infuse your rice with extra flavor, consider cooking it in chicken broth instead of water. This adds a subtle depth that harmonizes nicely with the chicken. After cooking, let it sit covered for about 10 minutes to steam, which will enhance its fluffy texture.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the chicken and rice separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to 3 days. When reheating, avoid using the microwave alone, as this can dry out the chicken. Instead, warm the chicken in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth for moisture, covering it to help retain steam.

For meal prep enthusiasts, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Simply cook the chicken and sauce, let them cool, and then store them in the freezer for up to a month. When you're ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently when needed.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, but bone-in chicken will take longer to cook. Ensure it reaches the appropriate internal temperature.

→ What can I substitute for butter?

You can use olive oil or a dairy-free alternative if you prefer.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead, but it's best served fresh. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the chicken.

→ What type of rice works best?

Long-grain rice or jasmine rice complements the lemon butter sauce wonderfully.