Introduction

If you’re craving a dish that balances refreshing citrus notes with comforting buttery richness, these Citrus Glow Lemon-Butter Chicken Tenders will quickly become a household favorite. Ready in minutes yet bursting with sunny flavor, this recipe delivers juicy chicken coated in a creamy lemon-infused sauce that feels both light and indulgent. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or impressing guests with minimal effort.

Ingredients

1 ½ lbs chicken tenders

2 tbsp olive oil

3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided

3 cloves garlic, minced

Zest of 1 lemon

Juice of 1 large lemon

½ cup low-sodium chicken broth

½ tsp paprika

½ tsp dried oregano

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional garnish)

Lemon slices, for serving

Instructions

Season the chicken.
Pat the chicken tenders dry and season generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano.

Sear the tenders.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and mostly cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Build the sauce.
Reduce heat to medium. Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Once melted, stir in the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Add citrus and broth.
Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir, scraping up any browned bits for extra flavor.

Finish the dish.
Return the chicken to the pan, coat with sauce, and simmer for 3–5 minutes until the tenders are fully cooked and the sauce slightly thickens. Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter for a silky finish.

Serve.
Garnish with fresh herbs and add lemon slices for extra brightness.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Ideas:

Pair with rice, roasted veggies, or a simple green salad.

Spoon extra sauce over mashed potatoes or buttered noodles.

Add to wraps or sandwiches for a zesty protein boost.

Storage:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth to maintain tenderness.

You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months, though the texture of the sauce may become slightly thinner upon thawing.

Variations