Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for more juiciness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zest and juice
- 1/2 cup (120ml) chicken broth (or white wine for extra flavor)
- 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream (optional for extra richness)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Roasted Potatoes:
- 2 pounds (900g) baby potatoes, halved or quartered (Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or fresh rosemary)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Fresh thyme (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Roasted Potatoes:
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for roasting the potatoes and ensuring they become crispy on the outside while soft on the inside.
Season the Potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the halved or quartered baby potatoes with 3 tablespoons of olive oil, garlic powder, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Ensure the potatoes are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
Roast the Potatoes: Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Roast the potatoes in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the edges. You can flip them halfway through the cooking time to ensure they cook evenly.
Add Lemon Juice (Optional): After removing the potatoes from the oven, drizzle with fresh lemon juice for a burst of brightness that complements the rich chicken. Garnish with fresh thyme, if desired, and set aside while you prepare the chicken.
2. Prepare the Lemon Butter Chicken:
Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme.
Sear the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts. Sear for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Lemon Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned.
Deglaze the Pan: Add the chicken broth (or white wine) to the skillet to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits left from the chicken. This adds tons of flavor to the sauce.
Add Lemon and Cream: Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice, then add the heavy cream (if using) for extra richness. Allow the sauce to simmer for 3-4 minutes, until it thickens slightly.
Return the Chicken to the Skillet: Place the chicken back into the skillet with the lemon butter sauce. Let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, spooning the sauce over the chicken to ensure it’s well coated.
Finish with Butter: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet and stir it in to create a smooth and velvety sauce. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
3. Serve the Dish:
Plate the Meal: Place the roasted potatoes on plates and top them with the lemon butter chicken. Spoon the creamy lemon butter sauce over the chicken and potatoes for maximum flavor.
Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish the chicken with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. If desired, you can also add extra fresh thyme to the potatoes or chicken for a fragrant touch.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Vegetables: Serve with a side of sautéed spinach, steamed broccoli, or green beans for a well-rounded meal.
- With Rice: If you prefer, serve the lemon butter chicken and potatoes over a bed of rice (such as jasmine rice or cauliflower rice) to absorb the delicious sauce.
- With Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken and potatoes perfectly.
Tips for the Perfect Lemon Butter Chicken with Roasted Potatoes:
- Evenly Season the Chicken: Make sure to season both sides of the chicken breasts generously. You want to enhance the flavors of the chicken while it cooks, so don’t skip this step.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooking the chicken can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Crispy Potatoes: To ensure the potatoes are crispy, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. Spread them out in a single layer to ensure they roast evenly.
- Adjust the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer for a few extra minutes to reduce. If it’s too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up.
- Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary add a great aroma and flavor. Use them liberally to complement the richness of the butter and the brightness of the lemon.
- Customize the Potatoes: You can add other seasonings or vegetables to the potatoes. For instance, try adding a sprinkle of paprika or Parmesan cheese for an extra flavor kick.
Storage and Reheating:
Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover chicken and roasted potatoes in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to store the chicken and potatoes separately to maintain their texture.
Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken and potatoes in a skillet over medium heat. Add a small splash of chicken broth or water to help keep the chicken moist. Cover and heat until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave the leftovers, though the potatoes may lose some of their crispiness.
Final Thoughts:
Lemon Butter Chicken with Roasted Potatoes is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. The tender chicken, bathed in a creamy lemon butter sauce, pairs wonderfully with the crispy, golden roasted potatoes. It’s a flavorful combination that will please everyone at the table. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a comforting and elegant dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the bright, tangy flavors and creamy textures of this dish with a glass of white wine or a fresh salad on the side!
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