Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken

The moment I first tasted Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken, I knew I stumbled upon something magical. Picture me, after a long day, craving comfort food that feels like a warm embrace. I had just finished a hectic week and wanted to unwind with something rich and satisfying. That’s when I decided to whip up this delightful dish. It’s a recipe that never fails to impress, whether it’s a cozy dinner for two or a gathering with friends. The rich, creamy sauce combined with the zing of fresh lemon and fragrant garlic creates a symphony of flavors that dances on your palate.

As I prepared the ingredients, the aroma of sautéing garlic filled my kitchen, instantly lifting my spirits. I can still remember that satisfying moment when I added the heavy cream, transforming simple chicken into a culinary delight. Cooking is all about joy, and this Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken brings just that to the table. On days when I need a little extra comfort or a special dish to celebrate, this recipe is my go-to. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, which is a huge bonus when I want to savor every moment without spending hours in the kitchen!

What Goes Into Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken

The ingredients for Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken are not just ordinary items; they are the stars of this show! Each component plays a crucial role in building the dish’s character. The combination of fresh and rich ingredients creates a mouthwatering experience that you won’t forget.

• 1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts: The main star of our dish, these tender pieces soak up the flavors beautifully, ensuring every bite is juicy and satisfying.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning, these basic staples elevate the dish, enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken.
• ½ cup flour: This ingredient helps create a lovely golden crust on the chicken, contributing to both texture and taste.
• 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and flavor, making the sauce decadently creamy.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used in conjunction with butter, it helps achieve the perfect cooking temperature while adding a touch of healthy fats.
• 3 cloves minced garlic: The fragrant garlic brings depth and aroma, making the kitchen smell heavenly as it cooks.
• 1 cup chicken broth: Provides moisture and a savory base for the sauce, infusing it with chicken flavor.
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream: This is where the creaminess comes from! It transforms the sauce into a luxurious coating for the chicken.
• Juice of 1 lemon: Adds a bright and zesty flavor that cuts through the cream, balancing richness with acidity.
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish: This not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh flavor that elevates the dish.

Directions for Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken

Cooking Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken is a breeze, and I promise you’ll feel like a culinary expert once you try it! Just follow these simple steps, and soon enough, you’ll be enjoying the delicious, creamy flavors that make this dish so special.

1. Start by seasoning 1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste. This simple step ensures that the chicken is flavorful right from the start. Use your hands to rub the seasoning into the meat for maximum flavor.
2. Next, dip each piece of seasoned chicken into ½ cup flour, coating it evenly. This will create a lovely crust when cooked, adding both texture and flavor to your dish.
3. Heat a large pan over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil to the pan. Wait until the butter has melted and starts to bubble, indicating it’s hot enough for cooking.
4. Once the pan is hot, carefully place the coated chicken breasts in the pan. Cook for about 3 to 5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown. Use tongs to flip them gently and avoid splashing hot oil.
5. After the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside on a plate. This allows the juices to redistribute while you prepare the sauce.
6. In the same pan, add 3 cloves minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can turn bitter.
7. Next, pour in 1 cup chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Use a spatula to scrape down the sides of the pan, incorporating all those tasty bits stuck to the bottom.
8. After about a minute of simmering, add 1 cup heavy whipping cream to the pan. Stir it gently and allow it to cook for 2 to 3 minutes. You’ll notice the sauce starting to thicken nicely.
9. Return the cooked chicken to the pan, along with the juice of 1 lemon. This is where the magic happens! The lemon juice will brighten the sauce and enhance the overall flavor.
10. Finally, season with more salt and pepper to taste, if needed. Finish the dish off with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for a colorful garnish and fresh flavor.

Recipe Tips about Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken

When making Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken, there are a few tips that can make your experience even better. Here’s how to ensure this dish turns out perfect every time!

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet for the best results.
• Freezing: While it’s best fresh, you can freeze this dish. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before placing it in freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to three months.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides such as steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh garden salad. Choose what you love!
• Make It Ahead: You can prep the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just cook the chicken right before serving for the best texture.
• Garnish Ideas: Consider adding lemon slices or additional herbs like thyme for a different flavor profile and presentation.
• Cooking Method: For a healthier twist, you can grill the chicken instead of pan-frying. Just ensure it’s cooked through before serving.

Serving This Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken

Serving Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken is as much about presentation as it is about taste. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game:

• Over Rice: Serve this dish over a bed of fluffy white rice or brown rice. The rice will soak up the delicious sauce, making every bite exquisite.
• Pasta Delight: Pair the chicken with pasta for a heartier meal. Tagliatelle or fettuccine works beautifully with the creamy sauce.
• With Vegetables: A side of steamed green beans or broccoli adds a nice crunch and balances the creamy texture of the dish.
• Salad Pairing: A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken beautifully.
• Casual Gatherings: This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner with friends or family. Set up a buffet-style serving for a relaxed atmosphere.
• Elegant Touch: For special occasions, serve the chicken on a beautiful platter adorned with lemon wedges and fresh herbs for an elegant presentation.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken is truly a comforting dish that combines rich flavors with simplicity. The creamy sauce paired with zesty lemon creates a delightful experience that’s hard to resist. I encourage you to give this recipe a try, as it has the power to brighten up any day. Enjoy the process of making it and even more, enjoy sharing the warmth it brings to your table!

Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken. This easy weeknight dinner is rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, sure to satisfy your cravings. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, you’ll want to make it tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 600 kcal

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Saucepan
• Frying Pan

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 pounds Boneless skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 0.5 cup Flour
• 2 tablespoons Butter
• 1 tablespoon Olive oil
• 3 cloves Minced garlic
• 1 cup Chicken broth
• 1 cup Heavy whipping cream
• 1 Juice of 1 lemon
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

 

• Season 1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste. This simple step ensures that the chicken is flavorful right from the start. Use your hands to rub the seasoning into the meat for maximum flavor.
• Next, dip each piece of seasoned chicken into ½ cup flour, coating it evenly. This will create a lovely crust when cooked, adding both texture and flavor to your dish.
• Heat a large pan over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil to the pan. Wait until the butter has melted and starts to bubble, indicating it's hot enough for cooking.
• Once the pan is hot, carefully place the coated chicken breasts in the pan. Cook for about 3 to 5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown. Use tongs to flip them gently and avoid splashing hot oil.
• After the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside on a plate. This allows the juices to redistribute while you prepare the sauce.
• In the same pan, add 3 cloves minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can turn bitter.
• Next, pour in 1 cup chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Use a spatula to scrape down the sides of the pan, incorporating all those tasty bits stuck to the bottom.
• After about a minute of simmering, add 1 cup heavy whipping cream to the pan. Stir it gently and allow it to cook for 2 to 3 minutes. You'll notice the sauce starting to thicken nicely.
• Return the cooked chicken to the pan, along with the juice of 1 lemon. This is where the magic happens! The lemon juice will brighten the sauce and enhance the overall flavor.
• Finally, season with more salt and pepper to taste, if needed. Finish the dish off with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for a colorful garnish and fresh flavor.

Notes

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet for the best results.

While it's best fresh, you can freeze this dish. Just ensure it's cooled completely before placing it in freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to three months.

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides such as steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh garden salad. Choose what you love!

You can prep the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just cook the chicken right before serving for the best texture.

Consider adding lemon slices or additional herbs like thyme for a different flavor profile and presentation.

For a healthier twist, you can grill the chicken instead of pan-frying. Just ensure it’s cooked through before serving.

Keyword chicken in cream sauce, creamy chicken recipe, Easy Chicken Dinner, lemon garlic chicken