This Lemon Butter Garlic Chicken with Asparagus is a tasty, wholesome dish. Imagine juicy chicken coated in zesty lemon and buttery garlic, paired with tender asparagus—yum!
Cooking this dish feels like a treat, not a chore! I love how the bright flavors come together. Plus, it’s quick enough to whip up on a busy night. You can impress everyone at the dinner table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe, giving you juicy meat. If you want a healthier option, you can use chicken thighs, which remain moist while cooking.
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish. For a lighter version, substitute with olive oil or vegan butter, especially if you’re looking for plant-based options.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a punch of flavor. If you don’t have fresh garlic on hand, you could use garlic powder, but use less as it’s more concentrated. Few shakes will do.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice brightens up this dish. You can replace it with lime juice if you’re in a pinch. Both add acidity, but the taste will slightly differ.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus gives a nice crunch. If it’s out of season, green beans or broccoli can make a tasty substitute. They’ll cook similarly and enhance the dish well.
How Do You Cook Chicken Perfectly Every Time?
To ensure your chicken is juicy and cooked just right, seasoning is crucial. Don’t be shy with salt and pepper! Start by heating your skillet over medium-high heat for a solid sear. Here’s how to nail it:
- Preheat your skillet and ensure it’s hot before adding the chicken.
- Sear chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side without moving it around. This allows a nice golden crust to form.
- Use a meat thermometer; chicken is done when it reaches 165°F (75°C).
After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps the juices locked in! Enjoy your beautifully cooked chicken!
How to Make Lemon Butter Garlic Chicken With Asparagus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lemon (1/2 sliced into rounds, 1/2 juiced)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- Optional: lemon wedges for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. You will spend about 10 minutes preparing your ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking everything. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
First, season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken. Set it aside while you heat the olive oil.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium, and in the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter and the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds, or until you can smell its delicious aroma. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
4. Add the Sauce Ingredients:
Next, pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, and add the lemon slices to the skillet. Stir everything to combine and let the sauce simmer for about 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.
5. Finish the Sauce:
Now, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the chopped parsley to the sauce. Stir until the butter melts and the sauce thickens slightly. This is going to be delicious!
6. Cook the Asparagus:
Add the trimmed asparagus to the skillet. Cook and stir occasionally for about 4-5 minutes until the asparagus is tender but still crisp. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Combine and Heat:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon some of that tasty sauce over the top, and warm everything together for an additional 1-2 minutes. This helps the chicken soak up all the flavors!
8. Serve It Up:
Now it’s time to serve! Place the chicken breasts on plates and add the asparagus on the side. Top the chicken with lemon slices and sprinkle extra parsley for a beautiful finish. If you like, add lemon wedges to brighten the dish even more!
Enjoy your Lemon Butter Garlic Chicken with Asparagus!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it is fully thawed before cooking. The best way to thaw is overnight in the fridge or by placing it in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for a quick thaw.
Can I Make This Dish in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and the sauce in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just reheat gently on the stove before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat on the stove or in a microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
What Can I Use Instead of Asparagus?
If asparagus isn’t available, you can use green beans, broccoli, or even zucchini. Just adjust the cooking times slightly to ensure they remain tender but still crisp. Enjoy!
