Food Recipes Creamy Lemon Chicken

Name: Food Recipes Creamy Lemon Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice; Zest of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper, to taste; Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Nourishing Home Kitchen

I love making Creamy Lemon Chicken because it strikes the perfect balance between creamy richness and zesty freshness. The combination of tender chicken simmered in a luscious lemon-garlic sauce never fails to impress my family and friends. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish can transform an ordinary weeknight dinner into something spectacular. Plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day, making it a delightful meal option for busy schedules.

Created by

Clara Jennings

Last updated on 2026-02-28T07:37:34.834Z

When I first tried making Creamy Lemon Chicken, I was pleasantly surprised at how quickly it came together. I only needed a few basic ingredients—chicken, garlic, lemon juice, and cream—that I often have on hand. What really makes this dish stand out is letting the garlic cook until it's fragrant, resulting in a base that elevates the entire meal.

The trick to getting that perfect creamy texture is to add the cream gradually, whisking continuously. This allows it to combine beautifully with the lemon juice for a rich, tangy sauce that clings to the chicken. I served this dish with a side of fresh green beans and rice, and it was an instant hit!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Zesty lemon flavor that brightens up the dish
Creamy sauce that coats the chicken perfectly
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners

Understanding the Creamy Lemon Sauce

The creamy lemon sauce is the star of this dish, providing a rich and tangy flavor that beautifully complements the chicken. Using heavy cream ensures a velvety texture, which clings to the chicken without becoming too heavy. The balance of acidity from the lemon juice and zest cuts through the creaminess, preventing the dish from feeling overly rich and providing a refreshing finish. If you prefer a lighter version, substituting the heavy cream with half-and-half can still yield a deliciously creamy result while reducing the fat content.

While preparing the sauce, keep an eye on the heat. Once you reduce it to low, it’s crucial to whisk continuously to prevent the cream from scorching. You want the sauce to be smooth and glossy, indicating it’s slightly thickened. If the sauce becomes too thick, a splash of chicken broth can easily bring it back to the right consistency, ensuring that it coats the chicken perfectly without being clumpy.

Perfecting Your Chicken

When cooking the chicken, it’s important to let it rest once it’s been removed from the skillet. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in moist and tender chicken. If you cut into it immediately, you might lose those precious juices, leading to dry meat. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked chicken, and use a meat thermometer for best results.

For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken breasts for a couple of hours in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and minced garlic before cooking. This not only enhances the chicken's flavor but also helps to tenderize it. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist that pairs wonderfully with lemon.

Ingredients

For the Creamy Lemon Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
Zest of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper, to taste
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Enjoy this dish served with pasta, rice, or fresh vegetables!

Instructions

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 7-8 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir well and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Add Cream and Combine

Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the heavy cream. Allow the sauce to heat through for another 5 minutes, whisking continuously until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.

Combine and Serve

Return the chicken to the skillet and coat it thoroughly with the creamy lemon sauce. Let it simmer together for an additional 2 minutes, then serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.

Pair this dish with your favorite sides for a complete meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding capers or fresh spinach to the sauce.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover creamy lemon chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the creamy texture upon reheating, it’s best to warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat. Adding a splash of chicken broth or a little cream while reheating can also help rejuvenate the sauce’s consistency. Avoid microwaving it, as the cream may curdle and create an unpleasant texture.

If you’re planning to freeze this dish, it’s recommended to do so without the cream sauce. The sauce can separate when thawed and reheated, affecting the dish's quality. Instead, freeze the cooked chicken and make the sauce fresh when you’re ready to enjoy it again. This simple step ensures you can savor the creamy decadence anytime.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

To elevate the dish, consider serving your creamy lemon chicken over a bed of steamed vegetables or creamy polenta for a complete meal. The creaminess of the sauce pairs well with the sweetness of sautéed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. If you're in the mood for something heartier, serve it over pasta or rice, which will soak up the delicious sauce.

For a fun twist, you can also add capers or sun-dried tomatoes into the sauce for additional flavor and texture. Capers add a delightful briny bite that enhances the lemon's tang, while sun-dried tomatoes introduce a sweet and savory contrast. Each variation not only changes the flavor profile but also increases the visual appeal of the dish, making it even more enjoyable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work beautifully in this recipe, adding even more richness.

→ How can I make the sauce lighter?

You can substitute half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a lighter cream alternative.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

It's best to cook it fresh, but you can prep the ingredients in advance and follow the steps when you're ready to cook.

→ What can I serve with Creamy Lemon Chicken?

Consider serving it over rice, pasta, or alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal.