If you’re craving a dish that bursts with vibrant flavors, comes together effortlessly, and feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Juicy Lemon Butter Chicken with Asparagus in One Pan Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender, golden-browned chicken bathed in a luscious lemon butter sauce, paired perfectly with crisp asparagus—all cooked together in a single skillet to lock in those incredible flavors. This recipe makes a fantastic weeknight dinner or a special meal to share with friends and family, guaranteed to brighten up your table with its bright citrusy notes and rich buttery goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the secret to nailing this Juicy Lemon Butter Chicken with Asparagus in One Pan Recipe. Each component is simple but essential, contributing to a perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors that will make your dinner plated like a dream.
- 4 pieces Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Make sure they’re evenly thick to cook uniformly and stay juicy.
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil: The perfect fat for searing the chicken to golden perfection.
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter: This is the rich, creamy base of the luscious lemon butter sauce.
- 2 cloves Garlic: Minced to infuse a subtle aromatic flavor throughout the dish.
- 1 cup Chicken broth: Adds a deep, savory richness to the sauce without overpowering.
- 2 tablespoons Fresh lemon juice: Brings a fresh, tangy brightness that wakes up every bite.
- 1 cup Lemon slices: These slices add a beautiful color and extra zing as they simmer with the asparagus and chicken.
- 1 bunch Asparagus: Trimmed to add a crisp, green crunch that complements the tender chicken.
- 1/4 cup Fresh parsley: Chopped and sprinkled on top for a burst of herbal freshness and a lovely presentation.
- 1 teaspoon Salt: Enhances all the natural flavors and balances the acidity of the lemon.
- 1 teaspoon Pepper: Adds a gentle kick and depth of flavor.
- 1 pinch Paprika (Optional): A touch of warmth and color to make the chicken extra inviting.
How to Make Juicy Lemon Butter Chicken with Asparagus in One Pan Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season Your Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and that optional pinch of paprika if you’d like a hint of smoky warmth. This seasoning step is crucial because it builds a wonderful foundation of flavor that will intensify as the chicken sears.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, carefully place the chicken breasts in the pan. Let them cook undisturbed for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side until they develop a gorgeous golden-brown crust. This searing locks in juices and adds incredible texture. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside for the next stage.
Step 3: Create the Lemon Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt your butter. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This quick step fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Pour in the chicken broth and fresh lemon juice, then let it simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes to meld those flavors into a silky, tangy sauce your chicken will love.
Step 4: Add Asparagus and Lemon Slices
Now, nestle your trimmed asparagus and lemon slices right into the pan with the sauce. Cook them in the bubbling sauce for about 3 to 4 minutes until the asparagus becomes tender but still crisp. This step is where the veggies soak up the buttery, lemony goodness, adding freshness and vibrant color to your dish.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, positioning them right atop the asparagus and lemon slices. Spoon some of that luscious sauce over the chicken to keep everything moist and flavorful. Let everything simmer together for an additional 2 minutes so the chicken warms through and perfectly absorbs the sauce’s magical taste.
Step 6: Garnish and Finish
Finally, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top to add a pop of color and a fresh herbal note. Serve this dish hot straight from the pan and get ready to enjoy every juicy, buttery, lemony bite.
How to Serve Juicy Lemon Butter Chicken with Asparagus in One Pan Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh parsley elevates this dish visually and adds a bright, green punch of flavor that balances the richness of the butter and chicken. You can also add a few extra lemon zest curls for a citrusy twist.
Side Dishes
This Juicy Lemon Butter Chicken with Asparagus in One Pan Recipe is already a star on its own but pairing it with fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or crusty bread allows you to soak up every last drop of that dreamy sauce. A light arugula salad would also add a peppery contrast that’s refreshing.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve the chicken and asparagus on a large platter surrounded by the lemon slices and parsley. Drizzle extra sauce on top right before serving. You can also plate individual portions with a wedge of lemon on the side for guests to add extra zing according to their taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more, making the next day just as delicious.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well if you want to prep in advance. Place cooled portions into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, ensuring the chicken stays moist and the asparagus retains some crunch.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if the sauce seems too thick. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short intervals, covering the dish to keep moisture locked in. This keeps your Juicy Lemon Butter Chicken with Asparagus in One Pan Recipe tasting fresh and vibrant.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will bring even more juiciness and flavor to this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they cook through thoroughly.
What can I substitute for asparagus?
Green beans, broccoli florets, or snap peas make excellent alternatives. Just add them at the same stage as the asparagus and cook until tender-crisp.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! This entire dish is naturally gluten-free as long as you check your chicken broth label to ensure it contains no gluten ingredients.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
You can prep the chicken and chop veggies ahead of time, then just cook everything on the day you plan to eat. This helps speed up the cooking process without compromising flavor.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, whisk in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water during the simmer step and cook until it thickens to your liking.
Final Thoughts
This Juicy Lemon Butter Chicken with Asparagus in One Pan Recipe is one of those meals that feels both special and incredibly satisfying without any fuss. It’s a perfect harmony of textures and flavors that come together in one skillet, making dinner time joyful and simple. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll quickly become a favorite you want to make over and over again.
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Juicy Lemon Butter Chicken with Asparagus in One Pan Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
A flavorful one-pan recipe featuring juicy lemon butter chicken breasts cooked alongside tender asparagus in a rich, garlicky lemon butter sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish combines bright citrus notes with savory herbs for a wholesome and satisfying meal perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 pieces Boneless skinless chicken breasts (Ensure thickness is even for uniform cooking)
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Pepper
- 1 pinch Paprika (Optional)
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil (Used for searing)
Sauce and Vegetables
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter (Base of the buttery sauce)
- 2 cloves Garlic (Minced, aromatic component)
- 1 cup Chicken broth (Enhances flavor)
- 2 tablespoons Fresh lemon juice (Adds acidity)
- 1 cup Lemon slices (For additional flavor)
- 1 bunch Asparagus (Trimmed)
- 1/4 cup Fresh parsley (Chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Season Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides evenly with salt, pepper, and optional paprika to enhance flavor.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and fresh lemon juice, then simmer the mixture for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly and meld flavors.
- Add Vegetables and Lemon: Place lemon slices and trimmed asparagus in the skillet. Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until asparagus is tender-crisp but still bright green.
- Combine and Warm Through: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Spoon sauce over the chicken and simmer together for an additional 2 minutes to warm through and allow flavors to combine.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for color and freshness. Serve the lemon butter chicken and asparagus warm, optionally accompanied by rice or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Notes
- Ensure chicken breasts are of even thickness to promote uniform cooking and prevent drying out.
- Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and paprika as desired to suit your taste preferences.
- You can substitute asparagus with green beans or broccoli for variation.
- Pair with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to make it a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently to maintain moisture.
