Chicken with Lemon Caper Butter

Name: Chicken with Lemon Caper Butter
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained; Juice of 1 lemon; 1 clove garlic, minced; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Oven Ideas

I absolutely love making Chicken with Lemon Caper Butter, and it has quickly become one of my go-to recipes for delicious weeknight meals. The burst of flavor from the capers combined with the zesty lemon creates a delightful sauce that elevates the tender chicken. I find that this dish can be whipped up in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings when time is short but taste is still a priority. The aroma that fills the kitchen while it cooks is simply irresistible!

Created by

Frederica Houghton

Last updated on 2026-01-08T14:21:36.173Z

When I first tried this Chicken with Lemon Caper Butter, I was pleasantly surprised by how quick and easy it was to make while still packing a punch of flavor. The key is to use fresh lemon juice and quality capers, as they bring out the best in the dish. I remember my family devouring every bite, and they couldn't believe how little time it took to prepare!

One little trick I learned is to deglaze the pan after searing the chicken. This helps capture all the flavorful bits stuck to the bottom, which adds depth to the sauce. I often serve this dish with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal that feels gourmet yet effortless.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The bright tanginess of lemon complements the savory chicken perfectly.
Capers add a delightful briny flavor that transforms the dish.
It's a quick and elegant meal that impresses guests without fuss.

      

Perfecting the Chicken

When cooking the chicken, achieving the right internal temperature is crucial for a juicy outcome. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), and use an instant-read thermometer for accuracy. Searing the chicken in hot olive oil helps to form a golden-brown crust, enhancing flavor through the Maillard reaction. If your chicken breasts are thick, consider butterflying them or pounding them to an even thickness for more consistent cooking.

After removing the chicken from the skillet, let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful. While the chicken rests, you can prepare your sauce, allowing for an aromatic kitchen experience that will have everyone eager to eat.

Crafting the Lemon Caper Sauce

The sauce for this dish is really where the magic happens. Using unsalted butter allows you to better control the seasoning throughout the dish, ensuring it doesn't become overly salty. As the butter melts, keep an eye on it to prevent browning; it should simply foam and become glossy before adding garlic and capers. Cooking them for just about a minute helps to bloom their flavors without burning, which can lead to a bitter taste.

Deglazing the pan with lemon juice is essential for capturing all the delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom, giving your sauce an extra depth of flavor. As the sauce simmers, it will thicken slightly, creating a velvety texture that clings beautifully to the chicken. If you find the sauce too tangy, a pinch of sugar can balance the acidity.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce

1/4 cup unsalted butter
2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained
Juice of 1 lemon
1 clove garlic, minced
Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and capers, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the lemon juice and scrape the bottom of the pan to deglaze. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes.

Combine and Serve

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spoon the sauce over it, and warm through for an additional minute. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in a mixture of lemon juice and garlic for an hour before cooking.

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, store the chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat to prevent the chicken from drying out. Adding a splash of water or chicken broth can help maintain moisture and bring back some of the sauce's original consistency.

For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked chicken with the sauce. Make sure it’s cooled completely before transferring to freezer-safe bags. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as needed, ensuring the dish is heated through to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Serving Suggestions

This Chicken with Lemon Caper Butter pairs perfectly with a variety of sides to round out your meal. Serve it with buttery mashed potatoes or a light pasta tossed in olive oil and herbs to soak up the delightful sauce. Also, consider serving it alongside seasonal roasted vegetables for a well-rounded plate that offers both nutrition and flavor.

To elevate the dish for special occasions, you can add a sprinkle of lemon zest or a few extra capers right before serving. Fresh lemon wedges can also add an inviting touch when plated. This dish not only impresses guests but also makes a fantastic leftovers option for lunch the next day.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will also work well and remain juicy during cooking.

→ What if I don’t have capers?

You can substitute capers with green olives or simply omit them for a milder flavor.

→ Can this dish be made ahead of time?

While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.

→ What should I serve with Chicken with Lemon Caper Butter?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed asparagus, quinoa, or a simple side salad.