Creamy Lemon Chicken Recipe (20 Minutes!)

This Creamy Lemon Chicken is a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner! Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts coated in a rich and creamy lemon sauce. This dish is simple to prepare, ready in just 20 minutes, and sure to become a new family favorite. It’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights when you want a flavorful and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together in a flash with minimal ingredients and simple steps.
  • Flavorful and Creamy: The combination of lemon juice, garlic, and Parmesan cheese creates a rich and savory sauce that complements the chicken perfectly.
  • Versatile: Serve this chicken with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or steamed vegetables. It’s also great for meal prepping or adding to salads and sandwiches.
  • Juicy and Tender: The cooking method ensures that the chicken breasts stay juicy and tender.

Ingredients

  • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Use high-quality chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture.
  • Sea salt: Enhances the flavor of the chicken.
  • Black pepper: Adds a touch of heat.
  • Olive oil: Used to sear the chicken and create a flavorful base for the sauce.
  • Garlic: Minced and added to the sauce for a fragrant and savory kick.
  • Heavy cream: Creates a rich and creamy sauce.
  • Chicken broth: Adds depth of flavor to the sauce.
  • Italian seasoning (optional): Adds a blend of herbs for extra flavor.
  • Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty and umami flavor to the dish.
  • Lemon juice: Adds a bright and zesty flavor to the sauce.

Note: For exact measurements, see the recipe card below!

How to Make Creamy Lemon Chicken

Step 1: Season and Sear Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts in a single layer and sear for 4-8 minutes per side, without moving, until golden brown and almost cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F). Remove the chicken to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic

Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Add the chicken broth, heavy cream, and Italian seasoning (if using) to the skillet. Simmer for 2 minutes, or until the sauce slightly thickens. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into a smooth sauce. Stir in the lemon juice and adjust the amount to taste, if desired.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Return the chicken breasts to the pan and simmer for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Serve the Creamy Lemon Chicken immediately with the sauce spooned over the top.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

  • Pat the chicken dry: Patting the chicken dry helps it sear properly and achieve a golden brown crust.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cooking the chicken in a single layer ensures even browning and prevents steaming.
  • Use a meat thermometer: An instant-read thermometer is the best way to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
  • Adjust the lemon juice: Add more or less lemon juice to your liking, depending on how tangy you want the sauce.
  • Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle some fresh parsley or chopped chives over the dish for a pop of color and added flavor.

How to Serve

Creamy Lemon Chicken Recipe (20 Minutes!)

This Creamy Lemon Chicken is delicious with a variety of sides:

  • Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing for this dish.
  • Rice Pilaf: A flavorful rice pilaf complements the richness of the sauce.
  • Pasta: Serve the chicken and sauce over your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or angel hair.
  • Steamed Vegetables: Serve with steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus for a balanced and nutritious meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Lemon Chicken is best enjoyed fresh, but you can also prepare components ahead of time or store leftovers for later.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken breasts for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts? Yes, you can! However, you’ll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts will take longer to cook.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese, such as grated Romano, Asiago, or a blend of Italian cheeses.

3. Can I make this recipe without cream? Yes, you can! You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter sauce.

4. Can I add other seasonings to the dish? Definitely! A pinch of red pepper flakes, dried oregano, or Italian seasoning would be delicious additions.

This Creamy Lemon Chicken Recipe is a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy a flavorful and elegant meal. With its simple preparation, versatile serving options, and juicy, tender chicken, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

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Creamy Lemon Chicken Recipe (20 Minutes!)

Creamy Lemon Chicken Recipe (20 Minutes!)

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  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Pan-sear, Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American, Italian-inspired

Description

This Creamy Lemon Chicken is a quick and easy weeknight meal that’s bursting with flavor! Tender chicken breasts are seared to golden perfection and then simmered in a luscious creamy lemon sauce. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 4 (8-oz) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 tablespoon sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (or to taste)

Instructions

  1. Prep and Sear Chicken: Pat chicken breasts dry and season with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 4-8 minutes per side, or until golden brown and almost cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  2. Sauté Garlic: Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
  3. Simmer Sauce: Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, and Italian seasoning (if using). Simmer for 2 minutes.
  4. Thicken with Cheese: Reduce heat to low. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
  5. Add Lemon and Chicken: Stir in lemon juice, adjusting to taste. Return chicken to the skillet and simmer for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.

Notes

  • For best results, use a cast-iron skillet or a heavy-bottomed skillet.
  • If you don’t have fresh lemon juice, you can use bottled lemon juice, but adjust the amount to taste.
  • Serve with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 16g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 5g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg

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