Creamy Lemon Chicken

Creamy Lemon Chicken is a quick and comforting dish where tender chicken cutlets are pan-seared and coated in a rich, lemon-infused cream sauce. Perfect for weeknights yet elegant enough for guests, this meal is a go-to when you want something satisfying and full of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare – ready in about 30 minutes
• Deliciously creamy with a bright lemony twist
• Uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients
• Perfect for pairing with pasta, rice, or veggies
• Family-friendly and easy to customize

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken breasts or thighs
• Salt and pepper
• All-purpose flour
• Olive oil and butter
• Garlic
• Chicken broth
• Fresh lemon juice and zest
• Heavy cream or half-and-half
• Optional: Parmesan cheese, parsley, Dijon mustard

directions

this recipe

1. Pound chicken to even thickness, season with salt and pepper, then dredge in flour.
2. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add garlic and sauté briefly. Deglaze with chicken broth and lemon juice.
4. Stir in cream and simmer to thicken slightly. Add lemon zest and optional mustard or cheese.
5. Return chicken to the pan and simmer a few more minutes.
6. Adjust seasoning and garnish with parsley or extra lemon zest before serving.

Servings and timing

• Serves: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Use white wine in place of some broth for a deeper flavor
• Add mushrooms or spinach for a veggie boost
• Substitute dairy-free cream to make it lactose-free
• Sprinkle with Parmesan for extra richness
• Try with boneless chicken thighs for more juiciness

storage/reheating

• Store in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container
• Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce
• Not ideal for freezing due to the dairy content, but chicken alone can be frozen and paired with fresh sauce later

FAQs

What type of chicken is best?

Boneless, skinless breasts or thighs both work. Thighs tend to be juicier.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free cream alternatives and plant-based butter.

Does the sauce curdle?

Not if you simmer gently after adding the cream. Avoid boiling.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can use gluten-free flour for dredging.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes, it stores well for a couple of days and tastes great reheated.

What should I serve with it?

Pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice are all excellent choices. Add steamed greens for balance.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is best for flavor, but bottled works in a pinch.

How do I thicken the sauce more?

Let it simmer longer or add a small slurry of flour or cornstarch and water.

Can I make it without cream?

Yes, try using evaporated milk or a cashew cream for a lighter version.

Is it kid-friendly?

Definitely! The creamy sauce and mild lemon flavor are usually a hit with kids.

Conclusion

Creamy Lemon Chicken is a flavorful and fuss-free meal that combines the zest of fresh lemon with the richness of cream for a dish that’s both bright and indulgent. Whether served over pasta or alongside your favorite veggies, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your weeknight rotation.

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