Creamy Lemon Chicken: A Tangy Delight in 30 Minutes

Name: Creamy Lemon Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 2 tbsp olive oil; 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons); 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 1 tsp dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: May 14, 2025

by Victoria

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This amazing chicken dish combines simplicity and flavor for an unforgettable meal experience.
It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
The creamy lemon sauce is a burst of brightness that elevates the chicken to new heights.
Plus, it’s versatile enough to be served over rice, pasta, or veggies.

Ingredients for Creamy Lemon Chicken

For more inspiration, check out this One Pot Chicken Meals recipe.

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts will suffice, but feel free to adjust based on your crowd size.
Fresh Garlic: Opt for firm cloves for the best flavor—no one wants sad garlic in their dish!

For the Sauce:

Heavy Cream: This rich cream adds that dreamy texture we all crave; just don’t tell your waistline!
Fresh Lemon Juice: Squeeze those lemons fresh for maximum zing; bottled juice just won’t cut it here.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to keep flavors balanced without overwhelming saltiness.
Dried Thyme: This herb brings an earthy touch to our zesty sauce; it’s like a little herbal hug.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Creamy Lemon Chicken

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken

Begin by patting those chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps achieve that golden-brown crust we all adore! Season both sides generously with salt and pepper—don’t be shy!

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add some olive oil. Once shimmering, lay down those seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Create That Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet (because who wants extra dishes?), lower the heat slightly and toss in minced garlic. Sauté it gently until fragrant—about 30 seconds should do it! Then pour in that heavy cream and bring it to a simmer.

Step 4: Add Flavorful Zing

Stir in fresh lemon juice and chicken broth. Sprinkle in dried thyme while you whisk everything together until smooth and heavenly. Let it simmer for another couple of minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Return those beautiful chicken breasts back into the skillet with your creamy concoction. Allow them to soak up all those delicious flavors for about five minutes.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Transfer your creamy lemon chicken onto plates or serve straight from the skillet if you want to impress guests (or just show off). Drizzle with extra sauce for that perfect finishing touch.

Now sit back and watch as everyone devours this incredible dish—just be prepared to share your secret recipe if someone asks!

You Must Know

This amazing chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first to lock in those juicy flavors, then cook your pasta while preparing the creamy lemon sauce. This sequence maximizes efficiency, ensuring everything finishes at the same time and keeps your kitchen chaos to a minimum.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or beef if that tickles your fancy. Add a dash of paprika or some roasted garlic for an extra punch of flavor. Don’t forget that fresh herbs like parsley or basil can elevate your dish!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove with a splash of broth to keep it creamy and avoid dryness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always let your chicken rest after cooking; this helps retain moisture and flavor.
Marinate the chicken overnight for maximum taste infusion.
Use fresh lemons for zestier results to brighten up your dish!

I remember one evening when I served this creamy lemon chicken to friends. They were raving about it all night, and one even suggested I should start charging for my recipes! It felt good to see them enjoy it so much.

FAQs :

What ingredients do I need for Creamy Lemon Chicken?

To prepare Creamy Lemon Chicken, gather the following ingredients: chicken breasts, olive oil, garlic, fresh lemon juice, chicken broth, heavy cream or a plant-based alternative, and seasonings such as salt, pepper, and fresh herbs like parsley. You can also include vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition. garlic butter chicken bites Ensure you choose a gelling agent like cornstarch or agar-agar if you want a thicker sauce. This combination creates a delightful dish bursting with flavor while adhering to dietary preferences.

How do I make Creamy Lemon Chicken?

Begin by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant, then add lemon juice and chicken broth. Bring it to a simmer before stirring in heavy cream. Return the chicken to the pan and cook through until the sauce thickens. Finish by garnishing with fresh parsley for an aromatic touch. For more inspiration, check out this Lemon Garlic Salmon recipe.

Can I make Creamy Lemon Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Creamy Lemon Chicken ahead of time. Cook the dish as per the recipe instructions but avoid adding heavy cream until you’re ready to serve. Store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat the chicken in a skillet over low heat and stir in the heavy cream just before serving to maintain its creamy texture.

What can I serve with Creamy Lemon Chicken?

Creamy Lemon Chicken pairs well with various side dishes. Consider serving it with steamed rice or quinoa to soak up all that delicious sauce. Alternatively, roasted vegetables or a fresh salad provide a bright contrast to the richness of the dish. protein-packed chicken pasta salad You can also opt for pasta tossed in olive oil for a satisfying meal. Each of these options complements the flavors while enriching your dining experience.

Conclusion for Creamy Lemon Chicken :

Creamy Lemon Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich sauce made from lemon juice and heavy cream. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a flavorful meal that everyone will enjoy. balsamic caprese grilled steak Pair it with your favorite sides for an unforgettable dining experience that highlights bright flavors without compromising dietary preferences. Enjoy this creamy delight at home!

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📖 Recipe Card