Tangy Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Brussel Sprouts Recipe

Crispy, golden chicken with zesty lemon garlic butter chicken emerges as a mouthwatering dinner solution for busy nights.

Succulent pieces of protein dance alongside caramelized brussels sprouts in this simple skillet creation.

Mediterranean flavors weave through each perfectly seasoned bite, promising satisfaction without complicated techniques.

Kitchen novices and experienced cooks alike can master this straightforward dish in under 30 minutes.

Fresh ingredients blend seamlessly, creating a harmonious plate that feels both comforting and elegant.

Herbs and bright citrus notes elevate the entire meal from ordinary to extraordinary.

FAQs

• How do I know when the chicken is perfectly cooked?

The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer. The chicken should look white throughout with no pink color and have a firm texture.

• Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?

Yes, chicken breasts work perfectly. Just slice them into similar-sized strips to ensure even cooking and consistent flavor absorption.

• What if I don't have a cast-iron skillet?

A regular non-stick or stainless steel skillet will work fine. The key is to maintain medium heat and avoid overcrowding the pan while cooking the chicken.

• Is smoked paprika necessary for this recipe?

While smoked paprika adds depth of flavor, you can substitute with regular paprika or skip it entirely. The other seasonings will still provide excellent taste to the dish.

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken With Brussel Sprouts

• Boost Flavor Quickly: The lemon garlic butter sauce delivers an incredible punch of taste that transforms ordinary chicken and Brussels sprouts into a gourmet-style meal with minimal effort.
• Customize with Ease: Adjust spice levels by adding more or fewer chili pepper flakes, making this recipe perfect for different heat preferences and ensuring everyone at the table enjoys their meal.
• One-Skillet Wonder: Streamline your cooking process by preparing and finishing the entire dish in a single cast-iron skillet, which means less cleanup and more time to savor your delicious creation.
• Nutrient-Packed Meal: Brussels sprouts provide essential vitamins and minerals, while lean chicken offers high-quality protein, creating a balanced and health-conscious dinner option that doesn't compromise on flavor.

Ingredients For Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken

• Chicken Tenderloins: Lean and tender meat that serves as the main protein for this delicious skillet dish.

• Brussel Sprouts: Nutrient-rich green vegetables that provide a robust and slightly nutty flavor to the recipe.

• Smoked Paprika, Salt, Black Pepper: Classic spices that enhance the chicken's natural flavor and add depth to the dish.
• Italian Seasoning, Crushed Red Chili Pepper Flakes: Herbs and spices that bring warmth and complexity to the overall taste.
• Minced Garlic: Aromatic ingredient that adds a rich, pungent flavor to the chicken and sauce.

• Fresh Parsley: Bright and fresh herb that adds a pop of color and light herbal notes to the finished dish.

• Olive Oil: Cooking oil that helps in sautéing the chicken and provides a smooth cooking surface.
• Butter: Creamy ingredient that creates a luxurious sauce and adds richness to the chicken and Brussel sprouts.
• Lemon Juice: Citrusy liquid that brings a tangy brightness and helps balance the richness of the butter.

Directions For Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Brussel Sprouts

Crank the oven to 400°F.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Trim the ends of Brussel sprouts and remove any yellow leaves.

Slice each Brussel sprout in half lengthwise.

Step 2: Season and Roast Brussel Sprouts

• Olive oil
• Salt
• Pepper

Spread them on the baking sheet cut-side down, ensuring they’re not overcrowded.

Roast in the oven for 20 minutes until edges are crispy and golden.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken

If chicken tenderloins are thick, slice them into even strips.

• Smoked paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat.

Add chicken in a single layer and cook for 3 minutes.

Flip and cook another 2 minutes until golden brown.

Step 5: Create Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

Reduce heat to low.

• Italian seasoning
• Red chili pepper flakes
• Minced garlic
• Lemon juice
• Butter

Stir frequently and cook for 2 minutes until chicken is perfectly cooked.

Step 6: Combine and Finish

Add roasted Brussel sprouts to the skillet.

Melt the remaining butter, coating everything in the delicious lemon garlic sauce.

Work quickly for a couple of minutes.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Stir in half the chopped fresh parsley.

When serving, sprinkle the remaining parsley on top.

Add extra red chili pepper flakes if you want an extra kick.

Tips For Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Perfection

• Cut all sprouts in half with a sharp knife to ensure uniform cooking and crispy edges.
• Arrange sprouts cut-side down on the baking sheet without overcrowding to achieve maximum caramelization and prevent steaming.
• Use a meat thermometer to verify chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature without overcooking, keeping it juicy and tender.
• Maintain medium-low heat when adding butter and garlic to prevent burning and create a smooth, flavorful sauce.
• Sprinkle chopped parsley just before serving to add brightness, color, and a fresh flavor boost to the dish.

Flavor Variations For Lemon Garlic Chicken

• Keto-Friendly Version: Replace olive oil with avocado oil, use chicken thighs instead of tenderloins, and increase butter quantity for higher fat content.
• Vegetarian Adaptation: Swap chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, marinate in same seasonings, and pan-sear until golden brown and crispy.
• Mediterranean Style: Add kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, and sprinkle za'atar spice blend over the dish for a Middle Eastern flavor profile.
• Spicy Cajun Remix: Substitute Italian seasoning with Cajun seasoning, use cayenne pepper instead of red chili flakes, and add andouille sausage chunks for extra heat and protein.

Suggested Sides For Lemon Garlic Chicken

• Zesty Dinner Party Plating: Arrange chicken strips and Brussels sprouts on a large white platter, drizzling remaining lemon garlic butter sauce over the top for a restaurant-style presentation.
• Protein Power Bowl: Create a hearty grain bowl by serving the chicken and Brussels sprouts over quinoa or brown rice, adding extra fresh parsley for bright color and additional flavor.
• Leftover Lunch Remix: Transform remaining chicken and Brussels sprouts into a delicious wrap or salad topping the next day, using the remaining herbs and a splash of extra lemon juice to refresh the flavors.
• Quick Meal Companion: Pair this dish with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light side salad with a tangy vinaigrette to complement the lemon and garlic notes.

Storage Instructions For Lemon Garlic Chicken

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for 3-4 days, ensuring the chicken and Brussels sprouts are completely cooled before sealing.
• Transfer meal to freezer-safe containers, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months. Seal tightly to prevent freezer burn and maintain flavor quality.
• Preheat oven to 350°F. Spread leftovers on a baking sheet, cover with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 10-15 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F, checking midway to ensure even heating.

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Brussel Sprouts Recipe

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4.5 from 19 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent lemon garlic butter chicken dances with crispy Brussels sprouts in this one-pan Mediterranean masterpiece. Zesty flavors and golden-brown edges promise a quick, elegant dinner that delivers maximum satisfaction with minimal cleanup.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 lb chicken tenderloins (boneless, skinless)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Black pepper (freshly ground, to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red chili pepper flakes

Vegetables:

• 12 ounces (340 grams) brussel sprouts (ends trimmed and yellow leaves removed)
• 5 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)

Cooking and Seasoning:

• 4 tablespoons butter (divided)
• 4 tablespoons (60 milliliters) olive oil
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Salt (to taste)
• Black pepper (to taste)

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Instructions

1. Heat oven to 400°F and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper. Carefully trim and halve Brussels sprouts, removing any discolored outer leaves.
2. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Arrange cut-side down on baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
3. Roast Brussels sprouts for 20 minutes until edges become crispy and golden brown.
4. Slice chicken tenderloins into uniform strips if needed. Season thoroughly with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
5. Warm olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Arrange chicken in a single layer and cook for 3 minutes until first side develops a golden crust.
6. Flip chicken and cook additional 2 minutes. Reduce heat to low and introduce Italian seasoning, red chili flakes, minced garlic, lemon juice, and butter.
7. Simmer chicken for 2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
8. Combine roasted Brussels sprouts with chicken in the skillet. Add remaining butter and quickly toss to coat everything in the lemon garlic sauce.
9. Sprinkle half the fresh parsley into the skillet, stirring gently to distribute. Transfer to serving plate and garnish with remaining parsley.
10. Optional: Enhance with extra red chili flakes for additional heat and flavor.

Notes

• Slice chicken tenderloins evenly to ensure uniform cooking and prevent dry or undercooked sections.
• Use fresh garlic and lemon for maximum flavor intensity and bright, zesty notes.
• Arrange Brussels sprouts cut-side down to achieve maximum caramelization and crispy edges.
• Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to help Brussels sprouts roast perfectly instead of steaming.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 410 kcal
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 320 mg
• Fat: 30 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 8 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 32 g
• Cholesterol: 105 mg