Mediterranean-Style Lemon Butter Chicken
Introduction
This light and flavorful Mediterranean-style lemon chicken is seared in olive oil and a touch of butter, then simmered in a garlic-lemon-herb sauce. It’s packed with heart-healthy ingredients, making it perfect for a wholesome, low-carb meal. Serve with roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete Mediterranean dish.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
1kg Chicken pieces
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for depth of flavor)
½ tsp dried oregano or thyme
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp unsalted butter (or more olive oil for a dairy-free version)
For the Lemon Garlic Sauce:
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth (or white wine for extra flavor)
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
1 tbsp capers (optional, for a briny Mediterranean touch)
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Slice chicken pieces in half lengthwise if they are thick. Pat them dry.
Season both sides with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and oregano.
Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown.
Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in chicken broth (or white wine), scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and capers (if using). Let simmer for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly.
Finish Cooking
Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top.
Simmer for 5 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temp 165°F / 75°C).
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions
For a classic Mediterranean meal:
Serve with quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a Greek salad.
For a heartier option:
Pair with whole grain couscous or warm pita bread.
For extra flavor:
Add Kalamata olives or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce.
Tips & Variations
Make it dairy-free:
Use only olive oil, skipping the butter.
Add a creamy twist:
Stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt at the end.
Spice it up:
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)
Serving Size: 1 of 4 servings
Calories: 280
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fiber: 0.5g
Sugar: 0g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 90mg
Sodium: 450mg (may vary depending on salt & capers used)
Potassium: ~500mg
Nutritional Highlights
High in lean protein – Supports muscle & metabolism
Heart-healthy fats – From olive oil & a touch of butter
Low-carb & keto-friendly – Ideal for balanced Mediterranean eating
Rich in antioxidants – From lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs