Description
Juicy chicken breasts seared and smothered in a zesty cowboy butter sauce made with garlic, lemon, Dijon, and herbs for a bold and flavorful dish.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 6–7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C). Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in Dijon mustard, lemon juice, lemon zest, smoked paprika, and cayenne (if using).
- Simmer for 1–2 minutes, then add parsley, chives, dill, and red pepper flakes.
- Return chicken to skillet and spoon cowboy butter sauce over the top.
- Serve immediately with extra sauce drizzled on top.
Notes
- Pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier meat.
- Adjust spice level by adding more or less cayenne and red pepper flakes.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American