Pan-Seared Chicken with Tarragon Butter Sauce
Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 17 Jan 2026
Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines
- DownloadDownload
- Share
- Language
- Discussion
This pan-seared chicken with tarragon butter sauce is a sophisticated yet simple dish that brings classic French flavours to your dinner table. The tender, golden chicken breasts are paired with a glossy reduction of white wine, shallots, and fragrant fresh herbs. It is a light and aromatic main course that feels indulgent while remaining a healthy choice for those seeking a protein-rich, low-carbohydrate meal.
As a diabetes-friendly recipe, this dish focuses on high-quality fats and lean protein to provide a satisfying, blood sugar-stable dinner. The combination of aniseed-scented tarragon and zesty lemon juice cuts through the richness of the butter perfectly. Serve it alongside steamed seasonal greens or roasted courgettes for a balanced and elegant midweek supper that the whole family will enjoy.
In this article:
Continue reading below
Ingredients for Pan-Seared Chicken with Tarragon Butter Sauce
60ml finely chopped shallot (1 large)
1/2 stick (60g ) unsalted butter, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
80ml dry white wine
900g thin-sliced skinless boneless chicken breasts (also called cutlets)
3/4 teaspoons salt
3/8 teaspoons black pepper
45ml olive oil
60ml chopped fresh tarragon
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
How to make Pan-Seared Chicken with Tarragon Butter Sauce
Cook shallot in 1 tablespoon butter in a small heavy saucepan over moderate heat, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 2 minutes. Add wine and boil until most of liquid is evaporated, about 3 minutes. Set aside.
Pat chicken dry and sprinkle all over with 1/2 teaspoons salt and 1/4 teaspoons pepper. Heat oil in a 12-inch heavy skillet over moderately high heat until hot but not smoking, then sauté chicken in 3 or 4 batches, turning over once, until golden and just cooked through, about 2 minutes per batch. Transfer as cooked to a platter and keep warm, loosely covered with foil.
Return shallot mixture to moderately low heat and add remaining 45ml butter, 1 cube at a time, whisking until incorporated. Remove from heat and whisk in tarragon, parsley, lemon juice, and remaining 1/4 teaspoons salt and 1/8 teaspoons pepper. Spoon sauce over chicken.
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Article history
The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
17 Jan 2026 | Originally published
Authored by:
UK recipe editors
Peer reviewed by
UK recipe editors

Ask, share, connect.
Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

Feeling unwell?
Assess your symptoms online for free
Sign up to the Patient newsletter
Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.
By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.