Lemon Buttered Chicken
Juicy lemon buttered chicken with sweet figs and bananas, offering a tangy, savory, and fruity flavor profile perfect for casual family dinners or special gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut up small fryers into pieces.
- Wash and dry the chicken, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour lemon juice over the chicken and let stand at room temperature for at least 30 minutes.
- Reserve the lemon juice liquid.
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Reduce heat to medium-low.
- Brown the chicken pieces on both sides in the skillet.
- Drain excess butter from the skillet.
- Return chicken to the skillet, cover, and simmer on low heat until tender, using the reserved lemon juice.
- Drain canned figs and set aside.
- Slice bananas and sauté them in butter until lightly browned.
- Garnish the cooked chicken with figs and sautéed bananas before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the lemon juice overnight. If you want a healthier option, substitute the butter with olive oil. To enhance the dish, add minced garlic or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary while sautéing the chicken. Using chicken thighs instead of fryers can add more moisture, making it even more delicious.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad. Consider serving it alongside rice or quinoa to complement the lemony flavor. For a delightful dessert, think about making Mist Yogurt Pound Cake to finish the meal on a sweet note.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to retain moisture, or use Chicken In The Microwave for quick reheating while keeping it juicy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Buttered Chicken contains roughly 1075 calories, with 9g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 104g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it's best to thaw it completely in the refrigerator beforehand for even cooking. If you use frozen chicken, extend the cooking time slightly to ensure it's thoroughly cooked.
What can I substitute for figs if I can't find them?
If figs are unavailable, you can substitute them with dried apricots or dates for a similar sweetness. Fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or peaches can also work well, adding a fresh twist to the dish.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not include any flour or gluten-containing ingredients. Just ensure that any additional sides or sauces you serve with it are also gluten-free.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).