Looking for a quick and flavorful dish that will impress your taste buds and elevate your dinner game? Look no further than this creamy lemon garlic chicken recipe! Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something indulgent yet easy to make, this dish combines the rich creaminess of a velvety sauce with the zesty freshness of lemon and the savory depth of garlic 🧄. It’s a simple combination that guarantees a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home.
This creamy lemon garlic chicken is more than just delicious—it’s versatile, too! Whether you’re serving it over a bed of pasta, alongside roasted vegetables, or with a side of mashed potatoes, it’s bound to become a go-to favorite in your recipe rotation. Best of all, it comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat.
So, grab your skillet and let’s get started on making this irresistible dish that will soon have everyone asking for seconds!
Table of Contents
What Is Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken?
Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken is a flavorful and indulgent dish that combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with a rich, creamy sauce made from garlic, fresh lemon, and Parmesan cheese. The garlic brings a savory depth, while the lemon adds a refreshing zing that perfectly balances the richness of the creamy sauce.
This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile—you can serve it with pasta, rice, or vegetables, making it a well-rounded meal that’s perfect for any occasion, from a quick weeknight dinner to a special weekend feast.
The best part? It’s ready in less than 30 minutes, so you can enjoy a comforting, restaurant-quality meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this recipe is a breeze to make and guaranteed to impress!
Ingredients for Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken
To make this delicious creamy lemon garlic chicken, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients that come together to create a mouthwatering dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Chicken :
- Four chicken breasts (or thighs for added juiciness) without bones or skin
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Creamy Lemon Garlic Sauce :
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free option)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter version)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (about 1/2 a lemon)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra richness)
Optional Add-Ins :
- 1/2 cup spinach or kale for extra greens
- 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced, for added flavor
- A pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
Tips for Ingredients:
- Chicken Substitution: Swap the chicken for shrimp, pork chops, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut cream for a dairy-free option, and skip the Parmesan cheese if you prefer.
- Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme or parsley adds a burst of flavor, but feel free to use whatever herbs you love!
Step-by-Step Recipe: How to Make Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning your boneless chicken breasts with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. This simple seasoning helps enhance the natural flavors of the chicken.
In a spacious skillet, warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil on medium heat. Carefully add the chicken to the pan once it’s heated. Cook each side for about 5-6 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. You can check for doneness by cutting into the thickest part of the chicken—there should be no pink, and the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
After cooking, take the chicken out of the pan and place it on a plate to rest. Keep the pan drippings in the skillet for flavor! 😋
Step 2: Make the Creamy Lemon Garlic Sauce
Next, in the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Make sure not to burn the minced garlic while you sauté it for one to two minutes until it becomes aromatic. 🧄🔥
Next, add the zest of 1 lemon and stir to combine. The lemon zest will add a burst of freshness to the sauce.
Step 3: Add the Cream and Broth
Pour in 1/2 cup of heavy cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free version) and 1/4 cup of chicken broth. Stir well, making sure to scrape up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan. This is where the sauce really comes together!
Allow the mixture to thicken somewhat by bringing it to a simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent the cream from separating. 🌀
Step 4: Stir in Lemon Juice and Parmesan
Once the sauce has thickened, add 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. This will give the sauce a vibrant, tangy flavor. If you like a richer sauce, add a couple of tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese 🧀 and stir until it melts into the sauce, making it extra creamy.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the pan, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for another 3-5 minutes, ensuring it’s well coated and heated through. If you’re adding any optional ingredients like spinach or mushrooms, this is the time to toss them in.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the chicken is fully coated in the creamy sauce, garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately with your favorite sides—whether it’s pasta, rice, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.
Pro Tip 💡:
For a little extra flair, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving to brighten up the flavors even more!
Tips & Variations 🌟
- Add Extra Veggies: For an extra boost of nutrients, add some spinach, kale, or mushrooms to the creamy sauce. They not only make the dish healthier but also add more depth to the flavor!
- Make it Spicy: Love a little heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra kick. You can even add a bit of hot sauce if you like it extra spicy!
- Dairy-Free Option: If you’re avoiding dairy, simply swap the heavy cream with coconut cream 🥥, and skip the Parmesan. This gives the dish a subtle coconut flavor while keeping it rich and creamy.
- Chicken Substitutes: Feel free to switch out the chicken for another protein! Shrimp, pork chops, or even tofu work wonderfully in this recipe.
- Herb Variations: While fresh thyme is lovely in this dish, you can experiment with other herbs like basil, oregano, or rosemary to customize the flavor to your liking.
- Make it a One-Pan Meal 🍽️: To make cleanup easier, add your favorite vegetables (like zucchini or bell peppers) to the skillet when the chicken is almost done cooking. This way, everything cooks together in one pan, absorbing the rich lemon garlic sauce!
- Serving Ideas: Serve this creamy lemon garlic chicken with anything from pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or even a side salad for a complete meal. You can also pair it with garlic bread to scoop up the creamy sauce!
Storage Tips 🏠:
For freezing, store the chicken and sauce in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Be sure to let it cool completely before freezing, and reheat thoroughly before serving.
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days in an airtight container. Warm up gently in a skillet on low heat or use the microwave for quick reheating.
Conclusion 🎉
There you have it – a creamy lemon garlic chicken recipe that’s easy to make, bursting with flavor, and sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation! With its rich, velvety sauce and bright, zesty lemon undertones, this dish is perfect for any occasion, from quick weeknight dinners to special family gatherings.
We hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as we enjoyed sharing it with you. It’s a dish that’s as delicious as it is simple, and with all the customizable options, you can make it uniquely your own! 😋
If you try this creamy lemon garlic chicken, we’d love to hear what you think! Feel free to leave a comment below, share your photos with us on social media, or share your own variations of the recipe. Don’t forget to pin this recipe for later, and happy cooking!
Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken
Equipment
- – Skillet
- Meat thermometer (optional for checking chicken doneness)
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Tongs or spatula
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts boneless and skinless – 4 pieces
- Olive oil – 1 tablespoon
- Butter – 2 tablespoons
- Garlic minced – 4 cloves
- Heavy cream – ½ cup
- Chicken broth – ¼ cup
- Lemon zest – 1 teaspoon
- Lemon juice – 1 tablespoon
- Parmesan cheese grated – ½ cup
- Salt and pepper – to taste
- Fresh parsley or thyme – for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in lemon zest and cook for another minute.
- Add heavy cream and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Stir in lemon juice and grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, simmer in the sauce for 3-5 minutes, then garnish with parsley or thyme.
- Serve over pasta, rice, or with vegetables.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream and nutritional yeast as a substitute for cream and Parmesan cheese.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
FAQ 🤔
1. How do I prevent the chicken from becoming dry?
To ensure your chicken remains moist and tender:
Pound the Chicken Evenly: Use a meat mallet to pound the chicken to an even thickness. This promotes uniform cooking and prevents overcooking.
To prevent overcooking: cook the chicken until its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Use a Meat Thermometer: This tool helps monitor the chicken’s internal temperature, ensuring it doesn’t overcook.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to help redistribute the juices, keeping it tender and juicy.
2. Can I substitute chicken breasts with thighs?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are an excellent alternative. They are more forgiving and tend to stay juicier due to their higher fat content.
3. How can I make the sauce thicker?
To thicken the creamy lemon garlic sauce:
Simmer Longer: Allow the sauce to simmer uncovered until it reduces to your desired consistency.
Add a Thickening Agent: Mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the simmering sauce and cook until it thickens.
Incorporate Dairy: Adding a bit more heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese can enhance the sauce’s thickness and richness.
4. Is it possible to prepare this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! Both the sauce and the chicken can be prepared in advance. Keep them in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce gently and cook the chicken until heated through.
5. What can I serve with creamy lemon garlic chicken?
This dish pairs well with:
Pasta: Serve over spaghetti, fettuccine, or your favorite pasta.
Rice: White, brown, or cauliflower rice complements the sauce beautifully.
Vegetables: Steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or sautéed spinach are excellent choices.
Bread: A side of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
6. How do I store leftovers?
Transfer any leftover chicken and sauce to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency if needed.
7. Can I freeze this dish?
While it’s possible to freeze the chicken and sauce, the creaminess may change upon reheating. For freezing, it’s best to store the chicken and sauce separately. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm gently on the stove, adding a bit of cream or broth to adjust the sauce’s consistency.