Hey y’all! If you’re searching for a quick but flavor-packed dinner, these Lemon Butter Chicken Cutlets have got your back. Each bite is loaded with juicy chicken, tangy lemon, and a touch of buttery goodness, making them a hit for family dinners, romantic date nights, or meal prepping for the week. Ready to make the easiest and most delicious meal ever? Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Butter Chicken Cutlets Recipe
- Bursting with fresh, zesty lemon flavor and creamy buttery richness.
- Ready in just 30 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights!
- Uses simple pantry ingredients and minimal equipment.
- Kid-friendly, yet elegant enough for dinner guests.
- Pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, from veggies to pasta.
Ingredients for Lemon Butter Chicken Cutlets
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tbsp)
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices, for garnish (optional)
How to Make Lemon Butter Chicken Cutlets
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Cutlets
Slice chicken breasts in half horizontally to create 8 thin cutlets. Place between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound gently with a meat mallet until about 1/2-inch thick for even cooking.
Step 2: Dredge the Cutlets
In a shallow bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Dredge each chicken cutlet in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add chicken cutlets in a single layer (cook in batches if needed) and sear for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.
Step 4: Create the Lemon Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, add chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and remaining 2 tablespoons butter. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
Step 5: Finish & Serve
Return chicken cutlets to the skillet, spoon sauce over the chicken, and simmer for 1-2 minutes until heated through. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes & Helpful Cooking Tips
- Always use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the brightest flavor.
- If you don’t have a meat mallet, a rolling pin works in a pinch.
- Learn more about safely handling raw chicken from the USDA.
Variations on Lemon Butter Chicken Cutlets
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend.
- Herb Alert: Add 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs to the flour mix for an herby twist.
- Spicy Version: Mix 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes into the sauce for a gentle kick.
Required Equipment for Lemon Butter Chicken Cutlets
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Meat mallet or rolling pin
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs
Storage Instructions
Store leftover Lemon Butter Chicken Cutlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth for best results.
Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations
- Serve with garlic mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic combo.
- Pair with angel hair pasta tossed in olive oil or butter.
- For a lighter meal, try a crisp side salad and roasted asparagus.
Pro Tips for Perfect Lemon Butter Chicken Cutlets
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet – cook in batches for even browning. Read more about frying tips here.
- Use a digital thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes before serving to keep it juicy. Learn why resting helps from Food Network.
Frequently Asked Questions about Lemon Butter Chicken Cutlets
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
- Absolutely! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
- Can I prepare Lemon Butter Chicken Cutlets ahead of time?
- You can prep and dredge the chicken in advance, but for the crispiest results, sear and make the sauce just before serving.
- Is there a dairy-free alternative for the butter?
- Yes, use your favorite vegan butter or olive oil for a dairy-free version; the flavor will remain deliciously rich.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into cutlets)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
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1Pound chicken breasts to even thickness and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
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2Dredge each chicken cutlet in flour, shaking off the excess.
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3Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
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4Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining olive oil and butter to the pan. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
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5Add chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest, scraping up browned bits. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
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6Return chicken cutlets to the skillet to coat in sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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