Easy Creamy Lemon Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for something that feels comforting yet bright and fresh, you’re in for a treat with this Easy Creamy Lemon Chicken Recipe. I absolutely love how this dish combines tender, juicy chicken with a luscious, tangy, and velvety sauce that’s ready in about 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself after a long day, this recipe hits all the right notes without any fuss.

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list is simple yet impactful—big flavor from just a handful of pantry staples and fresh lemon juice. Shopping for fresh garlic and lemons really makes a difference here, I promise. And don’t skip the heavy cream; it’s what gives the sauce that irresistible silky texture!

• Chicken breasts: Opt for large, boneless, skinless breasts for easy slicing and even cooking.
• Salt and pepper: Basic seasonings that bring out the best in your chicken and sauce.
• Italian herb seasoning: Provides a subtle blend of herbs without needing to measure multiple spices.
• All-purpose flour: Used to dredge the chicken, helping create a light crust and thickening the sauce.
• Olive oil: For sautéing the chicken—choose extra virgin for the best flavor.
• Garlic cloves: Freshly minced garlic adds that aromatic punch I love in this dish.
• Unsalted butter: Gives the sauce richness and helps mellow the garlic.
• Chicken broth: A flavorful base for the sauce—low sodium broths let you control saltiness.
• Fresh lemon juice: The star of the show, it brightens and lifts the entire dish.
• Heavy cream: Creates the creamy texture and balances the acidity.
• Fresh chopped parsley: For garnish and a splash of color.
• Lemon slices: Optional garnish that adds charm and extra lemon zing at the table.

Variations

I love how flexible this Easy Creamy Lemon Chicken Recipe is. Over time, I’ve tried a few twists depending on what’s in my fridge or who I’m cooking for. Don’t be afraid to personalize it to your family’s taste or dietary needs!

• Herb Variations: Sometimes I swap Italian herbs for fresh thyme or rosemary for a different aromatic profile that pairs beautifully with lemon.
• Dairy-Free Option: I’ve replaced heavy cream with coconut cream before, and it still turned out creamy and delicious—just a subtle coconut twist!
• Add Veggies: Toss in some sautéed spinach or mushrooms right before serving for extra color and nutrition.
• Spicy Kick: If you like heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes in the sauce warms things up nicely without overpowering the lemon flavor.

How to Make Easy Creamy Lemon Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Pound Your Chicken Cutlets

Cut each large chicken breast in half lengthwise to create thinner pieces. Then, lay the chicken between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound it with a meat mallet to even out the thickness. I discovered this trick ensures each cutlet cooks evenly and makes the meat tender—no dry spots here!

Step 2: Season and Dredge

Season both sides of your chicken cutlets with salt, pepper, and Italian herb seasoning. Don’t be shy here—proper seasoning is where flavor starts! Next, dredge each piece in all-purpose flour, making sure to shake off the excess so you get a nice light coating but avoid clumps.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection

Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat—hot enough that the chicken sizzles when it hits the pan. Cook the chicken cutlets for about 4-5 minutes per side until beautifully golden brown and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F. Remember, patience here yields beautifully seared chicken. Set aside the cooked chicken; don’t wipe the pan just yet!

Step 4: Create the Creamy Lemon Garlic Sauce

In the same pan, melt unsalted butter and add the minced garlic. Cook for a minute or so until fragrant—you’ll know when you smell that toasty garlic aroma. Then, pour in the chicken broth and fresh lemon juice, starting with 1 tablespoon and adding more if you like it more tangy like me. Bring to a simmer before stirring in heavy cream, salt, and pepper to taste. This sauce comes together quickly, turning into a silky, luscious coating for your chicken.

Step 5: Return Chicken to the Pan and Simmer

Place the seared chicken back into the sauce and let everything simmer together for 4 to 5 minutes. This step thickens the sauce just enough to cling to the chicken and lets all those flavors marry beautifully. Keep an eye on it so the sauce doesn’t boil too vigorously.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finish with some freshly chopped parsley and lemon slices for a pop of color and brightness. Serve this up immediately with your favorite sides and prepare for compliments!

How to Serve Easy Creamy Lemon Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

I’m a big fan of fresh parsley because it brightens the dish and adds that lovely green color. Also, lemon slices aren’t just pretty—they can be squeezed over the chicken at the table for an extra pop of zesty freshness that wakes up the flavors.

Side Dishes

This creamy lemon chicken pairs wonderfully with fluffy rice, roasted potatoes, or even some buttery mashed potatoes. I also like serving it alongside steamed green beans or a simple mixed green salad for a balanced plate.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining, try plating the chicken on a bed of wilted spinach and drizzle with extra sauce. Adding a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds on top gives a sophisticated crunch that always impresses. For a casual family dinner, just a sprinkle of cheese—Parmesan is divine here—takes it up a notch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers store beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I like to pour any extra sauce back over the chicken before chilling to keep it moist and flavorful.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this dish successfully a couple of times. The cream sauce might thicken or separate slightly when thawed, but a gentle stir and reheating resolve that easily. Freeze in meal-sized portions with some sauce to keep the chicken juicy.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce seems too thick. Microwaving works too—just cover and stir midway through to ensure even warming without drying out the chicken.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

When I first tried this Easy Creamy Lemon Chicken Recipe, I was amazed at how something so simple could taste so luxurious. The creamy lemon sauce never fails to brighten up a weeknight dinner and make everyone at the table smile. I highly recommend giving it a shot—you’ll find it becoming a staple in your rotation, just like it did in mine. It’s that kind of recipe you want to share with friends because it’s comforting, fresh, and endlessly satisfying.

Print