Zesty Lime Butter Chicken is the kind of recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy dinner with almost no effort. Crispy golden chicken paired with a rich, zesty lime butter sauce creates a balance of bold flavors that feels both comforting and refreshing. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this dish guarantees compliments.
What makes this recipe so irresistible is the contrast of textures and flavors. The chicken is pan-seared until the skin turns golden and crunchy, while the lime butter adds silky richness with a citrusy pop that brightens every bite. Fresh parsley ties it all together, giving it a vibrant finish.
Interestingly, pairing citrus with chicken has been a favorite in kitchens worldwide for centuries. From Mediterranean lemon chicken to Latin lime marinades, the tradition of blending tangy citrus with savory meat proves timeless.
Easy, elegant, and ready in under 30 minutes, Zesty Lime Butter Chicken is a recipe you’ll want to save and make again and again.
Recipe Yield: 4 servings
INGREDIENTS
4 boneless skin-on chicken breasts
1 tsp kosher salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
3 tbsp olive oil
4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
1 tbsp lime zest (about 1 lime)
2 tbsp fresh lime juice
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Season the chicken:
Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Sprinkle evenly with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Sear the chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place chicken skin side down and cook for 6–7 minutes until skin is golden and crisp. Flip and cook another 6–7 minutes until cooked through (internal temp 165°F). Transfer to a plate.
3. Make the lime butter:
In a small bowl, stir together softened butter, lime zest, lime juice, and parsley until smooth.
4. Finish and serve:
Spread lime butter generously over hot chicken, letting it melt into the crispy skin. Serve immediately with extra lime wedges if desired.
Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe
- Crispier Skin: Always pat the chicken dry before seasoning. Moisture prevents browning and crisping.
- Balanced Flavor: Don’t skip the lime zest—it adds bright citrus oils that balance the richness of the butter.
- Resting Time: Let chicken rest 3 minutes before adding lime butter so juices settle, keeping the meat juicy.
Also Popular
Oven Perfect Bacon
If you’ve ever wondered how to make bacon that’s perfectly crispy every time, look no further. Our Oven Perfect Bacon...
Country Fried Squash
If you’re craving a crispy, savory side dish that’s easy to make and loaded with flavor, look no further than...
Best 3-Ingredient Avocado Toast
Avocado toast has taken over breakfast menus everywhere, but why spend extra when you can make the Best 3-Ingredient Avocado...
Creamy Cottage Cheese Lasagna
Lasagna lovers, get ready for a creamy, cheesy twist on a classic favorite! This Creamy Cottage Cheese Lasagna is packed...
Boston Cream Pie
Boston Cream Pie is the kind of dessert that never goes out of style. With its soft, buttery sponge cake,...
Crispy Roasted Potatoes & Onions
There’s nothing quite like the perfectly crispy, golden-brown potatoes fresh from the oven. And when you add sweet, caramelized red...
Be the first to comment
Cooked it? 🍳 Loved it? ❤️ Changed it up? 🔄 Your opinion matters! Log in with Google or Facebook using the button below, share your foodie adventure, and let’s make cooking even more fun together! 🎉