Microwave Lemon-Butter Chicken Breasts with Scallions
This quick and flavorful recipe for Microwave Lemon-Butter Chicken Breasts is your go-to solution for a delicious and effortless meal during the hot summer months. Utilizing the microwave means you can enjoy juicy, tender chicken without heating up your kitchen. With a zesty lime or lemon kick and a rich butter sauce enhanced by fresh scallions or chives, this dish pairs perfectly with a crisp tossed salad and a fluffy baked potato. Simple ingredients come together to create a delightful flavor profile that’s sure to impress your family or guests without requiring hours of cooking. Enjoy a satisfying dinner without the sweat!
4
Servings
160
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
boneless skinless chicken breasts
4 large (none)
salt
1/2 teaspoon (optional)
black pepper
1/2 teaspoon (none)
olive oil
2 tablespoons (none)
unsalted butter
2 tablespoons (none)
fresh scallions or fresh chives
3 tablespoons (chopped)
lime or lemon
1/2 (juiced)
brandy
2 tablespoons (optional)
parsley
3 tablespoons (chopped)
Dijon mustard
2 teaspoons (none)
low sodium chicken broth
1/4 cup (none)
Instructions
1
Place each chicken breast between two pieces of wax paper and gently flatten them using a meat mallet for even cooking.
2
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste.
3
In a glass or ceramic baking dish, melt the unsalted butter, then mix it with the olive oil until well combined.
4
Carefully place the chicken breasts in the dish, turning them to coat with the butter and oil mixture thoroughly on all sides.
5
Microwave the chicken on HIGH for 3 minutes, checking the doneness as microwaves vary. Adjust the time as needed.
6
After microwaving, let the chicken rest for 1 minute, then turn the breasts over and microwave for an additional 3 minutes or until they are fully cooked but not overdone.
7
In a separate microwave-safe bowl, prepare the sauce by combining chopped scallions (or chives), lime juice (or lemon), brandy (if using), Dijon mustard, and chopped parsley.
8
Microwave the sauce mixture on HIGH for 1 minute, then carefully add the juices released from the cooked chicken and the chicken broth. Stir until smooth and blended.
9
Pour the sauce generously over the cooked chicken breasts. Serve immediately alongside your favorites like a baked potato and steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Nutrition Information
9g
Fat
4g
Carbs
16g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Microwave Lemon-Butter Chicken Breasts with Scallions?
It is a quick and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breasts cooked in the microwave with a zesty lemon-butter sauce and fresh scallions.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What are the main ingredients for the sauce?
The sauce is made from scallions or chives, lime or lemon juice, optional brandy, Dijon mustard, parsley, and chicken broth.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 160 calories.
Is this recipe suitable for hot summer months?
Yes, using the microwave allows you to cook a hot meal without heating up your kitchen.
Why should I flatten the chicken breasts before cooking?
Flattening the chicken breasts with a meat mallet ensures even cooking throughout the piece.
What is the total microwave cooking time for the chicken?
The chicken is microwaved for 3 minutes on high, rested for 1 minute, and then microwaved for another 3 minutes.
Can I substitute lime for lemon in this recipe?
Yes, you can use either lime or lemon juice depending on your preference.
Is the brandy a necessary ingredient?
No, the brandy is listed as an optional ingredient for extra flavor.
How much protein is in this dish?
This recipe provides 16g of protein per serving.
What type of dish should I use for microwaving?
A microwave-safe glass or ceramic baking dish is recommended.
Can I use chives instead of scallions?
Yes, fresh chives are a perfect substitute for chopped scallions.
What should I serve as a side with this chicken?
It pairs well with a crisp tossed salad, a baked potato, or steamed vegetables.
How much fat is in this recipe?
There are 9g of fat per serving.
Do I need to use salted or unsalted butter?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
How do I prepare the sauce?
Combine the scallions, citrus juice, mustard, parsley, and brandy in a bowl and microwave for 1 minute before adding the chicken juices and broth.
What is the purpose of letting the chicken rest?
Resting the chicken for 1 minute between cooking intervals helps maintain its juiciness and ensures even heat distribution.
How many carbohydrates are in this meal?
There are 4g of carbohydrates per serving.
Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead?
While the recipe specifies breasts, you could use thighs, though cooking times may vary.
Is there any sugar in this recipe?
Based on the nutritional data provided, there is no significant sugar content.
What kind of mustard should I use?
The recipe calls specifically for 2 teaspoons of Dijon mustard.
How many ingredients are required in total?
There are 11 ingredients listed for this recipe.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is low in calories and high in protein, making it a healthy dinner option.
How do I incorporate the chicken broth?
The chicken broth is added to the sauce mixture after the sauce has been microwaved for one minute.
Should I use fresh or dried parsley?
The recipe recommends using 3 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley.
What type of oil is used in this recipe?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of olive oil mixed with the melted butter.
Can I make this if I don't have a meat mallet?
Yes, you can use any heavy, flat object to gently flatten the chicken between wax paper.
Is the salt mandatory?
No, salt is listed as an optional ingredient to be used to taste.
How do I ensure the chicken doesn't dry out?
The combination of the butter-oil coating and the brief resting period helps keep the chicken moist.
What is the category of this recipe?
This recipe is categorized as a One Dish Meal.