This parmesan-crusted Lemon Chicken Recipe is so EASY to make and completely ready in 30 minutes! The quick garlic and lemon butter sauce enhances the flavor of the chicken and adds so much flavor to the dish!

Homemade lemon chicken recipe in a skillet topped with a lemon butter sauce and fresh lemon slices then garnished with herbs.

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I’m convinced you’ll love my Lemon Chicken with the best Lemon Butter Sauce.

Lemon Chicken Recipe:

This dish is going to become a favorite chicken dinner recipe for BUSY evenings. The chicken breast is generously coated in parmesan and pan-fried to give it a crispy crust. The chicken is then smothered in a lemon butter sauce with garlic that adds so much flavor to the chicken.

We love easy 30-minute chicken recipes for busy weeknights and some of our go-to’s include Chicken Marsala, classic Chicken Parmesan and of course this easy lemon garlic chicken. With these recipes in your arsenal, you can make restaurant-quality meals for a fraction of the price of eating out.

Parmesan crusted chicken breast on a bed of mashed potatoes and zucchini in a lemon butter sauce topped with greens.

How to Make Lemon Chicken:

With just a few simple ingredients a few minutes of prep time, you can have yourself the most DELICIOUS crispy chicken breast in a buttery garlic lemon sauce!

  1. Cut chicken in half lengthwise and beat with a meat mallet to an even thickness.
  2. Prepare Egg Mixture – whisk together eggs, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  3. Prepare Parmesan Mixture – in a separate bowl, mix together the parmesan cheese and flour.
  4. Dredge the Chicken – coat in the egg mixture, then generously coat in parmesan mixture, shaking off excess.
  5. Cook Chicken. Add oil to a hot skillet then add breaded chicken and cook 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and the internal temperature reads 165˚F with an Instant Read Thermometer.

Cook’s Tip If the chicken crust begins to brown too quickly, reduce heat allowing the chicken to fully cook through.

Step-by-step collage instructions how to make lemon chicken with lemon butter sauce.

How to Make Lemon Butter Sauce:

This 5-minute EASY lemon butter sauce will become a staple in your home. The sauce is tangy from the fresh lemon and butter and the garlic just brings all the flavors together – SO GOOD!

For a quicker dinner, prepare the lemon sauce in a separate saucepan or skillet while the chicken is cooking. Then just pour the sauce over the chicken once it is cooked. Or, you can just cook the chicken, remove it from the skillet (cover to keep warm) and prepare the sauce in the same skillet, then add the chicken back.

  1. Saute the garlic and butter until fragrant.
  2. Whisk in the lemon juice, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and pepper. Allow the sauce to cook over med heat for about 2 minutes.

NOTE: We love the fresh and tangy lemon flavor in this recipe. If you prefer a less lemony flavor, reduce the lemon juice.

Parmesan crusted chicken with a lemon butter sauce in a skillet topped lemon slices.

Can I make this Ahead?

If you like to prep dinner in advance, slice the chicken and add it to the egg mixture, cover and refrigerate until you are ready for dinner. Allowing the chicken to marinate will result in a juicier and more tender chicken breast. Then, just continue with the remaining recipe instructions.

Can I make the Lemon Chicken without Parmesan Crust?

Yes! For a healthier option, completely omit the egg mixture and parmesan mixture. Slice the chicken breast and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Then, continue with the preparation of the sauce.

Substituting for Chicken Thighs?

This lemon chicken will work with chicken breast, chicken thighs, and even chicken tenderloins. You will want to prepare the recipe according to the instructions, the only difference will be in the cooking time. The cook time will depend on the size of the thighs, you want the internal temperature to reach 165F on an instant-read thermometer.

Adding Vegetables to the Chicken in Skillet:

Yes, you may definitely add vegetables to complete the dish. Asparagus, green beans, and zucchini will all go great with the lemon sauce and compliment the chicken

Easy 30-minute Chicken Lemon on a plate with mashed potatoes and zucchini topped with lemon butter.

I can’t wait for you to give this simple chicken dinner recipe a try!

What to Serve with Lemon Chicken?

The EASY chicken dish is completely ready in just 30 minutes and can be served with our Mashed Potatoes or your favorite pasta and it pairs well with Caesar Salad.

More Chicken Recipes to Try:

Lemon Chicken with BEST Lemon Butter Sauce

4.98 from 1489 votes
Lemon chicken in lemon butter sauce in skillet garnished with lemon slices
This parmesan-crusted Lemon Chicken Recipe is easy and done in 30 minutes! The quick lemon butter sauce pairs so well with the chicken.
Prep Time: 18 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients 

Servings: 4 people

Ingredients for Parmesan Crusted Chicken:

  • 1 1/2 lb chicken breast, (2 large), patted dry with paper towels
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil, to sautee
  • 1 Tbsp parsley, to garnish (optional)
  • 1/2 lemon, sliced for garnish (optional)

For the Egg Mixture:

For the Parmesan Breading Mixture:

Ingredients for Lemon Butter Sauce:

Instructions

  • Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise. Lightly beat with a meat mallet until even in thickness.
  • In a bowl, whisk together the ingredients for the egg mixture. In another bowl, combine the ingredients for the parmesan mixture. Dip chicken into the egg mixture, then dredge chicken in the parmesan mixture. Allow any excess ingredients to fall off from each bowl.
  • In a large non-stick skillet, heat enough oil to cover the bottom of a skillet. Once hot, add the chicken and cook 4-5 minutes per side, or until crispy, golden and cooked through to 165˚F on an Instant Read Thermometer. Reduce the heat if chicken browns too quickly.
  • Meanwhile, in a separate saucepan, melt butter and garlic, cook until fragrant. Add the chicken broth, lemon juice and pepper. Allow the sauce to cook for about 2 minutes. Pour the sauce over the cooked chicken, turning to coat. Garnish with lemon slices and finely chopped parsley if desired.

Nutrition Per Serving

560kcal Calories9g Carbs46g Protein38g Fat20g Saturated Fat273mg Cholesterol1109mg Sodium738mg Potassium1g Fiber1g Sugar1105IU Vitamin A17mg Vitamin C322mg Calcium2mg Iron
Nutrition Facts
Lemon Chicken with BEST Lemon Butter Sauce
Amount per Serving
Calories
560
% Daily Value*
Fat
 
38
g
58
%
Saturated Fat
 
20
g
125
%
Cholesterol
 
273
mg
91
%
Sodium
 
1109
mg
48
%
Potassium
 
738
mg
21
%
Carbohydrates
 
9
g
3
%
Fiber
 
1
g
4
%
Sugar
 
1
g
1
%
Protein
 
46
g
92
%
Vitamin A
 
1105
IU
22
%
Vitamin C
 
17
mg
21
%
Calcium
 
322
mg
32
%
Iron
 
2
mg
11
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: lemon chicken
Skill Level: Easy
Cost to Make: $$
Calories: 560
Natasha's Kitchen Cookbook

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4.98 from 1489 votes (1,067 ratings without comment)

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Recipe Rating




Comments

  • Jessica
    January 6, 2021

    I made penned with spinach and sundries tomatoes. Added the sauce to that. I would have take a picture but it all got eaten up too fast

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      January 6, 2021

      I’m so glad you all enjoeyd this recipe, Jessica! Thank you for sharing that wonderful feedback with us!

      Reply

  • Gayle
    January 5, 2021

    This is delish and so easy

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      January 5, 2021

      I’m so glad you enjoyed it!

      Reply

  • Rita Kriss
    January 5, 2021

    This chicken looks great! Want to try it soon. Do you have a recipe for the Zucchini?

    Reply

  • Terry Valencia
    January 4, 2021

    I have made several of your recipes. They are all excellent. I love the fact that they are not time consuming but all are delicious!

    Reply

  • Karen Schlegl
    January 3, 2021

    I absolutely love this recipe! Simple to make and so delicious!

    Reply

  • Cindy
    January 2, 2021

    The only thing wrong was that this had the best flavor and we couldn’t stop eating it! Thank you for a new favorite dish!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      January 2, 2021

      That’s just awesome – & I know exactly what you mean! Thank you for sharing your wonderful review; it sounds like you found a new family favorite!

      Reply

  • Julia
    December 21, 2020

    I made this for dinner tonight and my husband couldn’t stop eating it! He loves all your recipes and always gets excited for dinner every time i say I’m making something from your website. Thank you!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      December 21, 2020

      That’s just awesome! Thank you for sharing your wonderful review!

      Reply

  • Eric
    December 14, 2020

    I did an on-line search for lemon chicken, and found this recipe and website. I’ve made a number of versions of lemon chicken or chicken piccata and this is hands down the best one. Followed the recipe to the letter and wouldn’t change a thing. It’s a winner! Since then I’ve made the Baked Ziti, Chicken Pesto Roll-Ups and and an appetizer, the Sausage Queso Dip. They have all been superb! The combination of beautiful, simple recipes with amazing ingredients and taste is so appreciated. The website is also one of the best I’ve navigated. I’ve already shared Natasha’s Kitchen with several friends. It’s my first stop now whenever I’m looking for a familiar recipe or something new.

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      December 14, 2020

      I’m so happy you love our recipes, Eric! Thank you so much for the fantastic review and your encouraging words. I am smiling big reading your comment.

      Reply

  • Jackie Mulligan
    December 10, 2020

    I have a very picky family so I always worry a little when I try new recipes that I will be disappointed with the family review. This was an absolute hit with everyone which almost never happens!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      December 10, 2020

      I’m so happy to hear that! Thank you for sharing your great review, Jackie!

      Reply

  • Melinda
    December 9, 2020

    Omg amazing! I followed the recipe exactly and wouldn’t change a thing. I had some leftover spaghetti noodles from night before and tossed them in the sauce. I have littles that can be a bit on the picky side but for once everyone loved it and nothing left on their plates!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      December 9, 2020

      Thank you so much for sharing that with me Melinda! I’m so glad you enjoeyd that!

      Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      December 9, 2020

      Hi Melinda, it is so great to read your comments and food feedback. Thanks for sharing that with us, I’m glad your little ones enjoyed this recipe too!

      Reply

  • Edna
    December 6, 2020

    I made this the other night. It was incredible. I’ve been wanting to for ages and literally the only thing holding me back was getting lemons, kept forgetting to put them on the grocery list. It was yummy and I loved the lemon flavor, I might add a tad bit more next time just for the extra kick. Tonight we’re having lemon chicken Caesar salad!

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      December 6, 2020

      Hello Edna, that makes me so happy! Thank you for sharing that with us. Sounds like a good plan for next time!

      Reply

  • Amy
    December 5, 2020

    Was so good I love your recipes you should have a cooking show

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      December 5, 2020

      You’re so nice! Thank you for that wonderful compliment, Amy! I’m happy you enjoyed that!

      Reply

  • david
    December 2, 2020

    this was so good !!! i served with spanakopita. this might be my favorite of yours maybe a tie with the roasted beef tenderloin my family expects for holidays! please make a cook book with your recipes

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      December 2, 2020

      Hello David, thanks for your good comments and feedback. I’m happy that you enjoyed both recipes that you tried! I am currently working on a cookbook, but it’s taking a while for me to complete it but I’ll definitely announce when it’s ready. Thanks!

      Reply

  • Liane
    November 30, 2020

    LOVED this recipe. Only thing I changed was seasoning my Parmesan and flour mixture with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder and Italian seasoning. Other than that, it was a total hit for dinner tonight! My picky fiancé and daughter loved it! Thank you.

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      November 30, 2020

      I’m so happy you enjoyed that. Thank you for sharing that with us!

      Reply

  • Joann Nalewanski
    November 25, 2020

    Let me just say…wow! I was looking for a light dinner for Thanksgiving Eve and came across your lemon chicken. We just finished dinner and my husband raved about it. We love lemon in our house and knew it would pair well with the garlic mashed potatoes that I made earlier today for Thanksgiving. I followed the recipe exactly but since we love lemon, I zested a whole lemon before I juiced it and added it to the lemon butter sauce. Amazing! And… I can’t believe how quickly this dish came together. The lemon sauce was to die for and I plan on making it again the day after Thanksgiving when we traditionally have seafood. I will broil shrimp and sea scallops, add the sauce and pair it with the leftover mashed potatoes. I have always considered myself to be a decent cook, but Natasha, you and your recipes have made me better! Thank you! Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      November 25, 2020

      That’s just awesome! Thank you for sharing your wonderful review! Happy Thanksgiving!

      Reply

  • Christina C
    November 18, 2020

    I made this tonight and it was SO good!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      November 18, 2020

      I’m so glad you enjoyed this recipe, Christina! Thank you so much for sharing that with me!

      Reply

  • Mzlinder
    November 17, 2020

    I had to give this a 4 because I followed the recipe to the letter and the lemon was just too much for me and my family. It was good for a few bites but no more than that. I will make this again but wit a LOT LESS lemon.

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      November 18, 2020

      Sounds good, thanks for sharing that with us!

      Reply

  • Lauren Ellison
    November 16, 2020

    Seriously…best lemon chicken recipe!!!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      November 16, 2020

      I’m so glad you enjoyed it!

      Reply

  • sher
    November 15, 2020

    I had a problem cooking the chicken – the parmesan breading stick to the pan – it did not come out as nice as I would have liked. Any suggestions?

    Reply

    • Natasha
      November 16, 2020

      Hi Sher, I would highly recommend a good non-stick pan. Also, be sure to use enough oil and let the oil heat up. Lastly, make sure the crust is crisped and golden before turning and it will release more easilly.

      Reply

  • Lauren
    November 15, 2020

    THIS IS SOOOOOO GOOD!

    This has become a weekly recipe for our household. My boyfriend and I love this, and his 6 year old son loves it too. We just omit the lemon butter sauce for his because he doesn’t care for sauce, but that means more sauce for us.

    It holds well in the fridge, so we usually make enough for leftovers.

    Tips – Don’t use Kraft grated parmesan, it’s not as good. Try using something one step higher. It does taste better with better quality parmesan cheese but if you’re on a budget anything other than Kraft works.

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      November 15, 2020

      Love your comments, Lauren. Thank you for sharing that with us and for giving us some tips – very useful indeed! We appreciate it.

      Reply

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