Looking for a dinner that’s bursting with fresh, bright flavors but takes minimal effort? This Easy One-Pan Lemon Butter Chicken with Asparagus is your answer. Imagine juicy chicken breasts seared to golden perfection, bathed in a luscious lemon butter sauce, paired with tender-crisp asparagus—all made in one skillet. It’s light, satisfying, and perfect for busy weeknights or an elegant weekend meal.

What makes this dish truly shine is the balance of tangy citrus and rich, silky butter, with garlic and herbs dancing in every bite. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, which means easy cleanup and maximum flavor. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing guests, this dish delivers every time.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Their Importance)

To nail this Easy One-Pan Lemon Butter Chicken with Asparagus, you’ll need a heavy-bottomed skillet (like cast iron or stainless steel) to achieve that golden sear on the chicken and hold steady heat. Tongs are essential for flipping the chicken without tearing the delicate meat. A microplane or fine grater helps zest the lemon, boosting the citrus aroma without the bitterness of the pith. And don’t forget a good sharp chef’s knife for prepping your asparagus and aromatics, ensuring even cooking and flavor distribution.

These simple tools make all the difference in turning a straightforward recipe into a restaurant-quality dish.

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

Chicken breasts: The star of the dish, offering a lean, tender protein base that soaks up all the buttery, lemony goodness.
Asparagus: Adds a fresh, slightly crisp contrast and pairs beautifully with the lemon butter sauce.
Butter: Creates a silky, rich sauce that brings all the elements together.
Garlic: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth and depth.
Lemon (juice and zest): Brings brightness and tang, balancing the richness of the butter.
Chicken broth: Lightens the sauce while adding savory depth.
Fresh herbs (like parsley): Finish the dish with color and a burst of freshness.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the natural flavors.

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

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat, add a touch of oil, and sear the chicken until golden on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium and melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Stir in lemon juice and zest, letting the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes to slightly thicken.

Step 4: Cook the Asparagus

Add asparagus spears to the skillet and toss them in the sauce. Cook for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.

Step 5: Return the Chicken & Finish

Nestle the chicken back into the skillet, spooning sauce over the top. Let everything heat through for 2-3 minutes. Finish with chopped fresh herbs and extra lemon slices if desired.

How to Serve and Store Easy One-Pan Lemon Butter Chicken with Asparagus

Serve this dish hot, straight from the skillet, with extra lemon wedges on the side. It pairs wonderfully with fluffy rice, mashed potatoes, or a crusty loaf to soak up the sauce. For a lower-carb option, try serving it with cauliflower rice or a simple mixed greens salad.

To store leftovers, let the chicken and asparagus cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep the sauce silky.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the chicken from drying out?

Sear over medium-high heat just until golden, then finish heating in the sauce to keep it juicy.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work beautifully here and stay even more tender and flavorful.

What can I use instead of asparagus?

Green beans, broccoli, or snap peas make great swaps if asparagus isn’t in season.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

It’s best fresh, but you can freeze the cooked chicken (without asparagus) for up to a month. Reheat gently with fresh veggies.

How can I make it dairy-free?

Swap the butter for a vegan butter or olive oil—you’ll still get lovely flavor, just a lighter finish.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

You might also love the Buffalo Chicken Lasagna, a spicy twist on a classic bake. Or try Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta for a cozy, flavorful dinner option.

For more one-pan wonders, check out the One-Pot Spicy BBQ Chicken Cheeseburger Pasta or the Chicken Mushroom Stroganoff for creamy comfort. Craving a lighter option? The Savory Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Thighs deliver big flavor with minimal fuss.

For even more recipe inspiration, visit my Pinterest board where I share daily recipes: LadyPlate Pinterest.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this recipe to your dinner boards for next time. Just click the Pin button!

If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you try chicken thighs? Did you add extra herbs or veggies? Leave a comment below. I’m always curious how others bring it to life in their kitchens.

Easy One-Pan Lemon Butter Chicken with Asparagus

Author: Julia Koch
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 2 servings

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Description

This Easy One-Pan Lemon Butter Chicken with Asparagus is a quick, flavorful dinner with juicy chicken breasts, crisp asparagus, and a silky lemon butter sauce. Perfect for weeknights or elegant entertaining, all in one skillet.