Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy – This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
- Healthy and Nutritious – Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables, it’s a well-balanced meal.
- Fresh and Flavorful – The lemon butter sauce adds a rich yet refreshing taste that enhances both the chicken and asparagus.
- Versatile – Easily swap out the asparagus for other vegetables or customize the seasoning to your preference.
- Perfect for Grilling Season – Ideal for outdoor grilling but can also be made on a stovetop grill pan.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Asparagus:
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions
- Prepare the Chicken – In a bowl, combine the chicken, olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Grill the Chicken – Heat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).
- Prepare the Asparagus – In a separate bowl, toss the asparagus with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
- Grill the Asparagus – Place the asparagus on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender-crisp.
- Make the Lemon Butter Sauce – In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the lemon juice, parsley, and minced garlic. Stir until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve – Plate the grilled chicken and asparagus, then drizzle with the lemon butter sauce before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Make it Spicy – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken seasoning for some heat.
- Swap the Vegetables – Try this dish with grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans instead of asparagus.
- Use a Different Protein – Substitute the chicken with shrimp, salmon, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Herb Infusion – Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the lemon butter sauce for extra depth of flavor.
- Oven Option – If you don’t have a grill, bake the chicken at 400°F for 20-25 minutes and roast the asparagus for 10-12 minutes.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: The grilled chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months, but the asparagus is best enjoyed fresh.
- Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. The asparagus can be quickly reheated in a pan or eaten cold as a salad topping.
FAQs
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes, but the cooking time will be longer. Bone-in chicken thighs may take around 8-10 minutes per side.
What can I serve with this dish?
This meal pairs well with rice, quinoa, mashed potatoes, or a simple side salad.
Can I make the lemon butter sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Can I cook this indoors without a grill?
Absolutely! Use a grill pan or cook the chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat.
How do I keep the chicken from drying out?
Marinating the chicken for at least 15 minutes and not overcooking it will keep it juicy and tender.
Can I use frozen asparagus?
Yes, but thaw and pat dry before grilling to avoid excess moisture.
What type of lemon juice should I use?
Freshly squeezed lemon juice gives the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice works in a pinch.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, but butter provides a richer and better flavor.
How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
Substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative like vegan butter or olive oil.
Conclusion
Grilled Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce and Asparagus is a simple yet delicious meal that’s full of fresh flavors. With minimal prep and cook time, this dish is perfect for a healthy and satisfying dinner. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or using a stovetop, this meal is sure to impress. Try it today and enjoy a restaurant-quality dish at home!
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Grilled Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce and Asparagus
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Grilled Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce and Asparagus is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights or summer barbecues. Juicy grilled chicken is paired with tender-crisp asparagus and drizzled with a bright, tangy lemon butter sauce for a fresh and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Asparagus:
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken – In a bowl, mix the chicken with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Coat evenly.
- Grill the Chicken – Heat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Prepare the Asparagus – Toss the asparagus with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
- Grill the Asparagus – Place asparagus on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender-crisp.
- Make the Lemon Butter Sauce – Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add lemon juice, parsley, and minced garlic. Stir until smooth and slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve – Plate the grilled chicken and asparagus, then drizzle with the lemon butter sauce before serving.
Notes
- Add red pepper flakes for heat.
- Swap asparagus for zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans.
- Substitute chicken with shrimp, salmon, or tofu.
- Bake the chicken at 400°F for 20-25 minutes if not using a grill.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
