Chicken Paillard, also known as Chicken with Lemon-Herb Butter Sauce, is a culinary delight that effortlessly combines simplicity and flavor. This dish showcases juicy, tender chicken that is pounded thin, allowing it to cook quickly while absorbing the vibrant nuances of the zesty lemon-herb sauce. It’s no wonder that this beloved entrée often graces dinner tables and restaurants alike.
Furthermore, the appeal of Chicken Paillard lies in its versatility. Whether you serve it with a fresh salad, over pasta, or alongside grilled vegetables, this dish adapts beautifully to various accompaniments. Thus, it’s an ideal choice for those seeking a quick yet impressive meal to wow family and friends.
Why Choose:
Chicken Paillard (Chicken With Lemon-Herb Butter Sauce) is an excellent choice for a quick and flavorful meal. This dish combines tender, thinly pounded chicken with a bright, zesty sauce that enhances its natural flavors. The infusion of lemon and fresh herbs in the butter sauce makes it irresistible, making every bite a delight.
Moreover, this recipe can fit seamlessly into a well-rounded meal plan. For example, if you’re in the mood for something equally comforting yet simple, try the Quick and Easy Chicken Noodle Soup. This versatility allows you to mix and match meals throughout the week without sacrificing taste or nutrition.
Ultimately, Chicken Paillard not only offers deliciousness but can also be paired elegantly with salads or grains, rounding out your dining experience. Enjoy a culinary moment that celebrates the essence of vibrant flavors with this quick and satisfying dish!

Ingredients for Chicken Paillard (Chicken With Lemon-Herb Butter Sauce):
Creating a delicious Chicken Paillard (Chicken With Lemon-Herb Butter Sauce) requires a few key ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1/2 cup (2 1/4 ounces; 64 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons Diamond Crystal kosher salt, divided; if using table salt, reduce the amount by half
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided
- 2 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 to 8 ounces each; 170 to 227 g each)
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- 3/4 cup (180 ml) dry white wine
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) homemade chicken stock or low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 medium garlic clove, grated
- 5 tablespoons (2 1/2 ounces; 71 g) unsalted butter, cut into ½-inch pieces and chilled
- 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons (18 g) finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley, divided
- 2 tablespoons (about 10 g) thinly sliced chives, divided
- 2 teaspoons (about 3 g) finely chopped tarragon leaves, optional, plus more for garnish
- Flaky sea salt, such as Maldon, for sprinkling
This flavorful dish pairs beautifully with easy white chicken chili for a complete meal experience. The balance of lemon-herb butter elevates the chicken while adding a rich, savory twist.
How to Prepare Chicken Paillard (Chicken With Lemon-Herb Butter Sauce):
To prepare Chicken Paillard, start by pounding the boneless, skinless chicken breasts to an even thickness. This ensures quick and uniform cooking. In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, one teaspoon of kosher salt, and half a teaspoon of black pepper. Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
In a skillet, heat two tablespoons of the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and sauté for around 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and keep warm.
In the same skillet, pour in the dry white wine and deglaze the pan, scraping up any brown bits. Add the chicken stock, grated garlic, lemon zest, and juice. Reduce the sauce for a few minutes, then whisk in the chilled butter until the sauce thickens. Stir in the chopped parsley, chives, and tarragon, if using. For the finishing touch, drizzle the lemon-herb butter sauce over the chicken, sprinkle with flaky sea salt, and enjoy this flavorful chicken dish.
For more delicious chicken recipes, consider trying quick and easy chicken noodle soup or check out the Lemon Butter Chicken Paillard recipe for additional tips!
Serving Suggestions:
Chicken Paillard (Chicken With Lemon-Herb Butter Sauce) is a delightful dish that can be paired with various sides to enhance its flavor. For a refreshing contrast, serve it alongside a crisp salad, perhaps featuring arugula and cherry tomatoes. The peppery notes of arugula complement the zesty lemon-herb butter beautifully.
Another excellent choice is to serve this dish with roasted seasonal vegetables. Think vibrant carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers seasoned with olive oil and herbs, which not only add color but also elevate the meal.
For a comforting addition, consider pairing it with creamy mashed potatoes. The richness of the potatoes balances the bright sauce perfectly.
To explore more delightful chicken recipes, try the Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken, which will complement your dining experience with its sweet and savory profile. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a family meal, these pairings will make your Chicken Paillard truly unforgettable.
Storage Tips for Chicken Paillard (Chicken With Lemon-Herb Butter Sauce):
To ensure your Chicken Paillard with Lemon-Herb Butter Sauce remains fresh and flavorful, proper storage is essential. Start by allowing the chicken to cool completely at room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. This helps to lock in flavors and moisture. Store the container in the refrigerator if you plan on enjoying it within three days.
For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. This can help prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop to preserve the tender texture. To complement your meal, you might want to try serving it alongside a quick and easy chicken noodle soup for a comforting dish.
Nutritional Information of Chicken Paillard (Chicken With Lemon-Herb Butter Sauce):
Chicken Paillard, or the delightful chicken with lemon-herb butter sauce, is both flavorful and nutritious. A serving typically contains approximately 250 calories, making it a light option while offering essential proteins. It also features healthy fats from butter, and the addition of herbs aids digestion. For a comforting meal, consider pairing it with broccoli rice cheese and chicken casserole to complement the dish perfectly. Enjoy this zesty chicken dish without compromising on nutrition!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What is Chicken Paillard?
Chicken Paillard, essentially a thinly sliced chicken breast, is often grilled or sautéed, resulting in a tender dish. The key to its flavor lies in the lemon-herb butter sauce, which enhances the chicken’s natural taste with citrusy brightness.
How do you make the lemon-herb butter sauce?
To create the delightful lemon-herb butter sauce, you simply melt butter in a pan, add freshly squeezed lemon juice, and mix in your choice of herbs such as parsley or thyme. This sauce can elevate any chicken dish, making it an excellent pairing for Chicken Paillard.
Is Chicken Paillard healthy?
Yes, Chicken Paillard can be a healthy choice. It is low in calories and high in protein while being packed with flavor, especially when paired with fresh herbs. This makes it a great option for a balanced meal.
Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Absolutely! While Chicken Paillard is traditionally made with chicken breasts, you can easily substitute chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Just ensure they’re pounded thin for even cooking.
What side dishes pair well with Chicken Paillard?
Delightful side dishes include a fresh salad or sautéed vegetables to complement the chicken’s flavors. You may also enjoy it with roasted potatoes or a light pasta dish, like the delicious Quick and Easy Chicken Noodle Soup.
Can I prepare Chicken Paillard ahead of time?
Yes, Chicken Paillard can be made ahead. Simply grill or sauté the chicken, cover it, and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat gently and drizzle with the lemon-herb butter sauce for a quick meal.
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Chicken Paillard (Chicken With Lemon-Herb Butter Sauce) Delight
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Chicken Paillard is a flavorful dish featuring pounded chicken breasts cooked to perfection, paired with a zesty lemon-herb butter sauce that elevates the entire dish.
Ingredients
1/2 cup (2 1/4 ounces; 64 g) all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons Diamond Crystal kosher salt
divided; for table salt
use half as much by volume
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
divided
2 medium boneless
skinless chicken breasts (about 6 to 8 ounces each; 170 to 227 g each)
1/4 cup (60 ml) extra-virgin olive oil
divided
3/4 cup (180 ml) dry white wine
1/2 cup (120 ml) homemade chicken stock or store-bought low-sodium chicken broth
1 medium garlic clove
grated
5 tablespoons (2 1/2 ounces; 71 g) unsalted butter
cut into ½-inch pieces and chilled
1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
plus 1 tablespoon fresh juice
divided
2 tablespoons (18 g) finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
divided
2 tablespoons (about 10 g) thinly sliced chives
divided
2 teaspoons (about 3 g) finely chopped tarragon leaves
optional
plus more for garnish
Flaky sea salt
such as Maldon
for sprinkling
Instructions
- Start by flattening the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet. Season both sides with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper.
- Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, pour in the white wine and deglaze, scraping up any browned bits. Add the chicken stock, garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Let simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and whisk in the cold butter pieces until the sauce becomes creamy. Stir in parsley, chives, and tarragon (if using).
- Return the chicken to the skillet to warm through in the sauce. Season with remaining salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional herbs and flaky sea salt.
Notes
For best results, make sure to pound the chicken thinly for even cooking. You can adjust the herbs according to your preference.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Dessert
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 640 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 36 g
- Cholesterol: 135 mg
Keywords: Chicken Paillard, Chicken With Lemon-Herb Butter Sauce, chicken recipe, easy chicken dish, lemon butter sauce