Lemon Butter Sauce

Name: Lemon Butter Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 1.5 cups (355 mL)
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons (60 mL) Unsalted butter; 1/2 cup (120 mL) Fresh lemon juice; 1 tablespoon (10 g) Lemon zest; 1 clove Garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 mL) Sea salt; 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 mL) Freshly ground black pepper; 1/4 cup (60 mL) Low‑sodium chicken broth; 2 tablespoons (30 mL) Cold water; 1 teaspoon (5 mL) Dijon mustard; 2 tablespoons (30 mL) Heavy cream; 2 tablespoons (10 g) Chopped fresh parsley; 1 teaspoon (5 mL) White wine (optional)

★★★★★4.8 (8 reviews)

SaucesAmericanOctober 3, 2026

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This lemon butter sauce is a simple yet elegant accompaniment that can elevate any dish. Made entirely from everyday pantry ingredients, it takes only about twenty minutes to prepare. The result is a silky, citrus‑infused sauce that balances the richness of butter with the bright acidity of fresh lemon juice. Whether you serve it over grilled chicken or a steaming plate of salmon, the sauce adds a splash of sunshine to your meal. Its versatility makes it a staple in any kitchen. Enjoy it warm for a comforting bite or let it chill for a refreshing drizzle over salads.

A warm, glossy lemon butter sauce poured over a plate of grilled chicken

Essential Kitchen Tools

Tool	Use
Small saucepan	Melts butter and simmers sauce
Whisk	Combines ingredients smoothly
Measuring spoons	Ensures accurate proportions
Knife and cutting board	Prep garlic, zest, parsley

Why This Recipe Works

The harmony of lemon and butter is a classic that never fails; the acidity of the lemon brightens the buttery base, preventing it from feeling heavy. Using fresh lemon juice instead of bottled preserves the natural oils and reduces added sugars, giving the sauce a cleaner taste. The technique of browning the butter before adding the acid creates a nutty flavor profile that adds depth. The addition of a small amount of chicken broth and water balances the sauce’s thickness, allowing it to coat proteins without overwhelming them. Finally, the finishing touch of parsley adds freshness and a subtle herbaceous note that rounds the flavor profile.

For more background, see the history of sauces, and general guidance on safe food handling.