Easy One-Pan Lemon Butter Chicken with Asparagus

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Nothing beats a dinner that comes together in just one pan, especially when it’s bursting with bright lemony flavor and rich buttery sauce. This easy one-pan lemon butter chicken with asparagus is exactly what your weeknight needs — quick, flavorful and comforting. The chicken is juicy and golden brown, nestled in a silky lemon butter sauce alongside tender asparagus for a dish that feels both wholesome and indulgent.

You’ll love how effortlessly it comes together, making cleanup a breeze while still impressing everyone at the table. It’s a restaurant-worthy meal you can whip up in less than 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings or lazy weekends when you crave something fresh yet satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Easy One-Pan Lemon Butter Chicken with Asparagus

This dish checks all the boxes — fast, full of flavor and minimal mess. The lemon butter sauce adds a tangy richness to the chicken while the asparagus brings a pop of green and a hint of crispness. It’s versatile enough to serve over rice, pasta or even with crusty bread to soak up that irresistible sauce. Plus, it’s a nutritious choice with lean protein and veggies all in one pan.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

For best results, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Breasts are leaner and cook quickly, while thighs remain extra juicy and flavorful. If you opt for thicker cuts, be sure to pound them to an even thickness for more even cooking. Both work beautifully and absorb that lemony butter sauce perfectly.

Ingredients for the Easy One-Pan Lemon Butter Chicken with Asparagus

To create this flavorful dish, you’ll need just a handful of fresh ingredients that complement each other beautifully. Each one plays an important role in building the bright and buttery flavors.

• Chicken breasts or thighs — The star of the dish, providing juicy and tender bites that soak up all the sauce.
• Asparagus — Adds color, texture and freshness with its vibrant green spears.
• Butter — Essential for creating a luscious, velvety sauce.
• Garlic — Infuses the sauce with a warm, savory depth.
• Lemon juice and zest — Bring brightness and tang that balance the rich butter.
• Chicken broth — Adds body to the sauce while enhancing the savory flavors.
• Salt and pepper — Season simply to let the main flavors shine.

How To Make the Easy One-Pan Lemon Butter Chicken with Asparagus

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and melt a tablespoon of butter with a drizzle of oil. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then sear each side for about 5–6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

Lower the heat to medium, then add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté just until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Pour in chicken broth, lemon juice and zest. Scrape up any browned bits from the skillet and simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 4: Cook the Asparagus

Add the asparagus to the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp, turning to coat them in the sauce.

Step 5: Finish the Dish

Return the chicken to the pan and spoon some sauce over each piece. Let everything heat through for another minute, then serve immediately with extra lemon slices if desired.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even a simple dish like this can benefit from a few helpful tips. Don’t overcrowd the pan — it can cause the chicken to steam instead of sear, resulting in less flavor. Make sure your chicken is pounded evenly so it cooks uniformly and stays juicy. And don’t overcook the asparagus; it should stay vibrant and slightly crisp, not limp.

Serving and Storing This Easy One-Pan Lemon Butter Chicken with Asparagus

This dish serves 4 generously, making it ideal for a family dinner or meal prep. Serve it straight from the skillet for a rustic presentation. Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to avoid drying out the chicken.

What to Serve With Easy One-Pan Lemon Butter Chicken with Asparagus?

Rice Pilaf

Fluffy rice pilaf soaks up the lemon butter sauce perfectly.

Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes complement the tangy sauce and tender chicken.

Garlic Bread

Crusty garlic bread is great for mopping up every last bit of sauce.

Quinoa Salad

A light and healthy quinoa salad pairs nicely with the rich chicken.

Roasted Baby Potatoes

Crispy on the outside and tender inside, they’re a classic pairing.

Buttered Egg Noodles

Simple noodles tossed with butter and herbs make a cozy base.

Green Side Salad

Keep it fresh with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you love this easy one-pan lemon butter chicken with asparagus, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

• Marry Me Chicken Pasta: A Creamy Flavor-Packed Delight for a decadent, cheesy twist.
• Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts if you’re craving bold garlic flavor.
• One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles for another quick and comforting option.
• Slow Cooker Creamy Ranch Chicken for a set-it-and-forget-it meal that’s always a hit.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you serve it with noodles or potatoes? Did you add extra garlic or herbs?

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Conclusion

This easy one-pan lemon butter chicken with asparagus brings together everything you want in a weeknight dinner — simplicity, freshness and a touch of indulgence. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, it’s sure to become a regular in your rotation. Enjoy every zesty, buttery bite!

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