The aroma of creamy lemon chicken wafts through the kitchen, making your mouth water with anticipation. Picture tender chicken bathed in a luscious sauce that balances zest and richness—it’s comfort food at its finest.
This dish isn’t just about flavors; it’s about memories. I remember hosting a dinner party where my friends practically licked their plates clean. The laughter and compliments filled the room, proving that creamy lemon chicken is perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to fancy gatherings.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy lemon chicken offers an explosion of flavor with minimal effort
- Perfectly versatile, it pairs beautifully with rice or fresh vegetables
- The vibrant presentation makes it a showstopper on any table
- Ideal for both weeknight meals and special occasions, you’ll find yourself making this dish again and again
I once made this for my family, and the kids declared me a culinary wizard for a whole week!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Tender and easy to cook, they soak up the sauce wonderfully.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves to add a rich aroma and flavor depth.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce luxuriously smooth and creamy—go for full-fat for best results.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed juice brings brightness that perfectly balances the creaminess.
Dijon Mustard: A hint of mustard adds tang and complexity—don’t skip it!
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while adding depth of flavor.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds freshness and color; it’s like confetti on your plate!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep Your Chicken: Begin by patting dry 3-4 chicken breasts with paper towels; this helps achieve a golden crust when cooking. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil until shimmering. Toss in minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds—your kitchen will smell divine!
Add the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook each side for 5-6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
Create the Creamy Sauce: Remove chicken from the pan and set aside. Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits—this is where flavor lives! Stir in heavy cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
Finish It Off: Return chicken to skillet; simmer in the sauce for another 5 minutes until fully coated and heated through. Sprinkle chopped parsley just before serving for that pop of color!
Now you’re ready to enjoy this creamy lemon chicken! Serve it over pasta or alongside steamed veggies for a complete meal everyone will love. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
You Must Know
- Creamy lemon chicken is not just a feast for the eyes; its tangy flavor brightens any meal
- Embrace this dish for a quick weeknight dinner or impress guests with its gourmet touch
- The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with pasta, rice, or vegetables
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken to golden perfection first, then cook the pasta while simmering the creamy lemon sauce. This method ensures everything melds beautifully together.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for a delightful twist. A sprinkle of fresh herbs can elevate the flavors even further.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat to preserve creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For best results, always use fresh lemons; bottled juice lacks that vibrant zing
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken—juicy and tender is key
- Lastly, consider adding a splash of white wine to enhance flavor depth
Sharing a memorable moment when my sister devoured this dish and declared it “life-changing” always makes me smile; her enthusiasm was infectious!
FAQ
What can I serve with creamy lemon chicken?
Pair it with pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Can I use other proteins besides chicken?
Absolutely! Shrimp or tofu are excellent alternatives for this recipe.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
Add a bit of cornstarch mixed with water during cooking to thicken the sauce effectively.
Creamy Lemon Chicken
Creamy lemon chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, zesty sauce. This comforting meal is perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to elegant gatherings. With minimal effort, you’ll create an explosion of flavor that pairs beautifully with rice or fresh vegetables. Your family and friends will rave about this dish, making it a go-to recipe for your culinary repertoire.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Pat dry the chicken breasts and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil until shimmering. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in heavy cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer in the sauce for another 5 minutes until fully coated and heated through. Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce (approximately 180g)
- Calories: 445
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 31g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
