Creamy lemon chicken is a healthy, flavorful dinner that’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The tangy lemon sauce and creamy texture create a satisfying dish that’s both light and rich in flavor without being heavy.
This protein-packed meal is easily customizable, whether you prefer Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce or heavy cream for extra richness. With garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs, creamy lemon chicken offers a nutritious, delicious way to eat clean while enjoying every bite!
Table of Contents
Ingredients
For the Crispy Chicken:
600g / 1.2lb chicken breasts (2 large)
1/2 tsp cooking salt (kosher salt)
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup flour (plain / all-purpose)
40g / 3 tbsp butter (unsalted)
For the Lemon Cream Sauce:
1 – 2 garlic cloves (minced)
1 1/4 cups chicken broth/stock
3/4 cup heavy cream (thickened)
3 – 4 tbsp fresh lemon juice (adjust to taste, start with 3 tbsp)
2 tsp Dijon mustard
3/4 cup parmesan cheese (freshly grated or finely shredded)
To Serve:
Pasta of choice (e.g., linguine)
Finely chopped parsley for garnish
Why Creamy Lemon Chicken is the Perfect Healthy Dinner
A Balance of Flavor and Nutrition
The Perfect Creamy Lemon Sauce
When it comes to crafting the perfect dinner, striking a balance between flavor and nutrition is key, and creamy lemon chicken achieves just that. The creamy lemon sauce is a culinary masterpiece, blending the tangy brightness of fresh lemon juice with the richness of a creamy base. This combination results in a sauce that feels indulgent yet remains light on the palate. The citrusy zest adds a burst of freshness that cuts through the creaminess, ensuring the dish never feels heavy. Garlic and black pepper provide depth and subtle warmth, making each bite a harmonious experience of contrasting yet complementary flavors.
The Health Benefits of Lean Chicken Breast
One of the standout features of this recipe is the use of lean, skinless chicken breast. Not only does it act as the perfect canvas for the vibrant sauce, but it’s also an excellent source of high-quality protein. Packed with essential amino acids, chicken breast supports muscle growth and repair while being low in fat, making it an ideal choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. It provides a hearty, satisfying base for the meal without adding unnecessary calories, aligning perfectly with health-conscious cooking.
The Perfect Balance of Health and Flavor
Combining the light, flavorful sauce with protein-rich chicken breast creates a dish that’s not only delicious but also nourishing. This balance ensures you can enjoy a wholesome dinner without compromising on taste, making creamy lemon chicken a standout option for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight meals. Whether served with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or a side of whole-grain rice, this dish seamlessly brings together health and indulgence in every bite.
Low-Fat Options for a Healthier Meal
What Are the Best Low-Fat Substitutes for Cream in This Recipe?
To make your creamy lemon chicken healthier, consider swapping out heavy cream with low-fat alternatives. Greek yogurt is a fantastic option—it provides a creamy consistency and adds a slight tang that complements the lemon beautifully. For a dairy-free alternative, unsweetened coconut milk works wonderfully, offering a smooth texture without the extra calories and fat of cream. Both substitutes keep the dish light while maintaining its rich, velvety appeal.
Why Are Lemons a Healthy Addition to the Recipe?
Lemons play a vital role in this dish, not just for their bright and tangy flavor but also for their health benefits. Packed with vitamin C, lemons help boost immunity and promote healthy skin. Their natural acidity also tenderizes the chicken, enhancing its juiciness. The zest contains essential oils and antioxidants, adding a depth of flavor while supporting overall wellness.
How Does Garlic Boost the Nutritional Value?
Garlic doesn’t just add a bold, savory flavor to creamy lemon chicken—it’s also a nutritional powerhouse. Known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties, garlic is rich in allicin, a compound linked to heart health and reduced cholesterol levels. Incorporating garlic into the sauce not only elevates the dish’s flavor profile but also enhances its health benefits, making this recipe a delicious and nutritious dinner option.
Can These Substitutions Compromise Flavor?
Not at all! Greek yogurt and coconut milk are versatile ingredients that adapt well to this recipe, maintaining the creamy texture without overpowering the dish. When combined with fresh lemon, garlic, and herbs, the substitutes ensure that the sauce remains flavorful and satisfying, proving you don’t need heavy cream to create a rich and indulgent meal.
By making these simple adjustments, creamy lemon chicken becomes a guilt-free dish that aligns with your healthy eating goals.
Packed with Fresh Ingredients
What Makes Fresh Lemon the Star Ingredient?
Fresh lemon is a cornerstone of this recipe, bringing a burst of tangy flavor that elevates every bite of creamy lemon chicken. Beyond its vibrant taste, lemon is a powerhouse of essential nutrients. Packed with vitamin C, it boosts the immune system, supports healthy skin, and promotes collagen production. Lemon also contains small amounts of potassium and B vitamins, which contribute to overall wellness. The zest and juice not only add a refreshing acidity but also deliver a dose of antioxidants that help protect the body from harmful free radicals.
The Health Benefits of Garlic
Garlic plays a vital role in this dish, adding depth and aroma while offering numerous health benefits. Known for its potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, garlic is a natural way to support heart health and strengthen the immune system. It is rich in sulfur compounds like allicin, which can help reduce cholesterol levels and improve blood circulation. Beyond its health benefits, the slightly nutty and pungent flavor of garlic perfectly complements the creamy and tangy profile of the dish, making it both nutritious and delicious.
Why Fresh Parsley Adds More Than Just Color
Fresh parsley is more than just a garnish in creamy lemon chicken—it’s a nutritional powerhouse. This vibrant herb is loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, which contribute to strong bones, healthy vision, and enhanced immunity. Parsley is also a rich source of antioxidants, including flavonoid and carotenoid, that combat oxidative stress. Its light, herbal flavor adds brightness to the dish, perfectly balancing the richness of the creamy sauce and the acidity of the lemon.
How Fresh Ingredients Enhance the Dish?
The combination of fresh lemon, garlic, and parsley doesn’t just boost the nutritional value of this recipe—it also transforms its flavor profile. Each ingredient plays a unique role in creating a dish that feels light yet indulgent, wholesome yet deeply satisfying. These fresh ingredients work in harmony, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor, nutrients, and the goodness of whole foods.
Ingredients You Need for Creamy Lemon Chicken
Fresh Chicken Breast
Why Choose Skinless, Boneless Chicken Breast?
Skinless, boneless chicken breast is the ideal choice for creamy lemon chicken, offering a lean, healthy, and versatile protein option. Without the skin, the chicken is naturally lower in fat, making it a heart-healthy choice that fits seamlessly into a balanced diet. The absence of bones ensures quicker and more even cooking, making it perfect for busy weeknight meals. Additionally, its neutral flavor profile allows it to soak up the tangy lemon sauce beautifully, creating a tender and flavorful base for the dish.
How Does Chicken Breast Support a Healthy Diet?
Chicken breast is not just a lean protein; it’s also a nutrient-dense ingredient that supports overall health. It’s an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and maintaining a strong immune system. Low in saturated fat, it helps manage cholesterol levels while still providing a filling and satisfying meal. Chicken breast is also rich in essential nutrients like B vitamins, which aid in energy production and brain health, as well as selenium, an antioxidant that supports the thyroid and immune functions.
How to Choose the Best Chicken Breast
When selecting chicken breast for this recipe, opt for fresh, high-quality cuts from trusted sources. Look for chicken that is firm to the touch, has a consistent pink color, and no strong odor. Organic or free-range chicken is a great choice if available, as it often has a more natural flavor and fewer additives. Properly chosen chicken breast not only enhances the taste and texture of your dish but also ensures it’s packed with wholesome nutrients.
Cooking Chicken Breast to Perfection
To achieve the best results, handle chicken breast with care during preparation. Season it well to complement the creamy lemon sauce and use proper cooking techniques like grilling, pan-searing, or baking. Each method enhances the natural flavors of the chicken while ensuring it stays juicy and tender. Properly cooked chicken breast will absorb the sauce beautifully, making every bite a delicious and protein-packed experience.
Lemon Juice and Zest
Why Use Both Lemon Juice and Zest?
Lemon juice and zest are essential ingredients in creamy lemon chicken, each contributing unique qualities that elevate the dish. The juice provides a bright and tangy acidity that cuts through the richness of the creamy sauce, balancing flavors perfectly. Meanwhile, the zest—taken from the outer layer of the lemon peel—adds a more concentrated citrus aroma and a touch of bitterness that complements the dish’s overall profile. Together, they create a dynamic depth of flavor that’s both refreshing and indulgent.
Health Benefits of Lemon Juice
Lemon juice isn’t just flavorful; it’s also a nutritional powerhouse. Packed with vitamin C, it supports the immune system and promotes skin health by aiding in collagen production. Lemon juice also contains antioxidants that help combat inflammation and protect the body from oxidative stress. Additionally, its natural acidity aids digestion, making this dish feel light and satisfying even with its creamy base.
The Power of Lemon Zest
Lemon zest is often an underrated ingredient, but it’s vital for adding a bold citrus flavor without extra moisture. Rich in essential oils, the zest intensifies the aroma and taste of the dish, creating a more vibrant and robust flavor profile. It also contains nutrients like fiber and small amounts of vitamins, adding to the overall nutritional value of the meal. Using zest ensures that no part of the lemon goes to waste, making the recipe eco-friendly and cost-effective.
How to Maximize the Flavor of Lemon
To get the most out of your lemon, always use fresh, ripe lemons. Squeeze the juice just before adding it to the dish to retain its bright flavor. For zest, use a fine grater or microplane, being careful to avoid the bitter white pith underneath. Incorporating both juice and zest at different stages of cooking ensures that the citrusy essence infuses every layer of the dish, making it a standout feature in your creamy lemon chicken.
Creamy Base Options
Why Choose Heavy Cream for a Rich Sauce?
Heavy cream is a classic choice for creating a luxuriously rich and velvety sauce in creamy lemon chicken. Its high-fat content ensures a smooth, thick texture that clings beautifully to the chicken and other ingredients. The cream’s neutral flavor enhances the tanginess of the lemon while softening its acidity, creating a perfectly balanced sauce. This option is ideal for those seeking an indulgent, comforting dish that feels restaurant-quality.
How Greek Yogurt Lightens Things Up?
For a lighter and healthier alternative, Greek yogurt is an excellent option. Its creamy consistency mimics that of heavy cream while significantly cutting down on calories and fat. Greek yogurt also adds a subtle tanginess that complements the lemon, enhancing the dish’s overall flavor profile. Plus, it’s packed with protein, probiotics, and calcium, making it a nutritious choice for health-conscious diners. Incorporating Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream turns creamy lemon chicken into a guilt-free, nutrient-rich meal.
Which Option Suits Your Meal Goals?
Choosing between heavy cream and Greek yogurt depends on your dietary preferences and the occasion. Heavy cream is perfect for when you’re indulging or preparing a dish for guests, offering a decadent and luxurious texture. On the other hand, Greek yogurt is better for everyday meals or if you’re looking to maintain a lighter, healthier lifestyle. Either option will deliver a creamy base, but the choice allows for customization based on your needs.
Tips for Perfectly Incorporating Your Creamy Base
To achieve the best results, always add the creamy base at the right stage of cooking. Heavy cream can be added earlier to thicken and meld with the sauce, while Greek yogurt is best stirred in at the end to prevent curdling. Whisk gently to ensure a smooth, homogeneous sauce, and taste as you go to balance the flavors. Whether you choose heavy cream or Greek yogurt, these tips will ensure your creamy lemon chicken turns out perfectly every time.
Fresh Herbs and Seasonings
The Role of Garlic in Adding Depth
Garlic is a key ingredient in elevating the flavor of creamy lemon chicken. Its robust and aromatic qualities make it a perfect match for the tangy lemon sauce. When sautéed, garlic releases a savory richness that enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish, adding depth without overpowering the fresh, citrusy notes. Its mild sweetness when cooked ensures the chicken is aromatic and flavorful in every bite. Garlic is also known for its health benefits, such as promoting heart health and boosting the immune system, making it a flavorful and nutritious addition.
Why Fresh Parsley Brightens the Dish?
Fresh parsley not only adds a burst of vibrant green color to your creamy lemon chicken but also contributes a clean, herbaceous flavor that cuts through the richness of the creamy sauce. Parsley is a great source of vitamin K, vitamin C, and antioxidants, which help promote overall health. When used as a garnish or mixed into the sauce, parsley enhances the dish’s freshness, offering a beautiful contrast to the creamy texture and tangy lemon flavor. Its bright, slightly peppery taste complements both the chicken and the lemon, making every bite refreshing and balanced.
The Power of Black Pepper and Salt
Black pepper is a must-have seasoning to bring a bit of heat and earthiness to the creamy lemon chicken. Just a dash of freshly cracked pepper can bring out the complexity of the lemon sauce, complementing the garlic and fresh herbs. Additionally, black pepper enhances the natural flavors of the chicken without overwhelming them. A pinch of salt is essential to bring all the flavors together, as it enhances the savory elements and balances the tanginess of the lemon juice. It helps tie the dish together, ensuring that every bite is seasoned to perfection.
How to Use Herbs and Seasonings for Maximum Impact?
To achieve the best flavor, use fresh herbs whenever possible. Fresh parsley should be chopped finely to release its full flavor, while garlic can be sautéed or minced, depending on how intense you want the flavor to be. Always taste your dish as you go, adjusting the amount of black pepper and salt to your preference. The beauty of fresh herbs and seasonings lies in their ability to enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients, ensuring that your creamy lemon chicken is bursting with vibrant, balanced flavors in every bite.
How to Make the Perfect Creamy Lemon Chicken
Preparing the Chicken
Seasoning the Chicken Breasts
Start by preparing the chicken breasts to ensure maximum flavor. If the chicken breasts are large, butterfly them or slice them in half horizontally to create thinner cuts. This will allow them to cook more quickly and evenly. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of garlic powder. For enhanced flavor, marinate the chicken for about 20 minutes in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of dried herbs such as thyme or oregano. This simple marinade infuses the chicken with zesty, aromatic flavors and tenderizes the meat.
Cooking the Chicken in a Skillet
Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add one tablespoon of olive oil or butter. Once the pan is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook them for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will ensure the chicken sears properly and doesn’t steam. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside to rest while you prepare the creamy lemon sauce.
Making the Creamy Lemon Sauce
Sautéing the Garlic
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add a little more oil or butter if needed. Add finely minced garlic and sauté it for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, making sure it doesn’t burn. Garlic is the flavor base of the creamy lemon sauce, so it’s important to cook it just enough to release its aroma without browning it.
Adding Lemon and Cream
Once the garlic is sautéed, pour in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and add the zest for extra brightness. Stir to combine the lemon with the garlic, letting the citrus notes infuse the pan. Next, pour in heavy cream for a rich, velvety texture, or Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier alternative. Stir the mixture together and let it simmer for a few minutes until it thickens. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra lemon juice if desired.
Combining the Chicken and Sauce
Coating the Chicken with Sauce
Once the sauce has thickened, return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Nestle them into the creamy lemon sauce and spoon some of the sauce over the chicken to ensure it’s evenly coated. Allow the chicken to simmer in the sauce for 2-3 minutes, so it absorbs the flavors and becomes tender. This will help the sauce adhere to the chicken, creating a luscious, flavorful dish. If you used Greek yogurt in the sauce, be careful not to let it boil to prevent curdling.
Simmering Until Tender
Continue simmering the chicken in the creamy sauce until the chicken is fully coated and heated through. The sauce should be thick and velvety, complementing the chicken’s tender texture. Ensure the chicken is cooked through but still juicy, absorbing the tangy flavors of the lemon sauce. This step ensures a harmonious flavor balance between the chicken and the creamy, citrus-infused sauce.
Serving and Garnishing
Garnishing with Fresh Parsley
To add a fresh pop of color and flavor, garnish the creamy lemon chicken with freshly chopped parsley. The parsley not only adds vibrancy but also offers a mild, earthy flavor that compliments the richness of the sauce.
Zesting Extra Lemon for Brightness
For an extra layer of freshness, zest another lemon over the dish just before serving. The lemon zest will bring a burst of citrus fragrance that enhances the dish’s bright, zesty flavors. This simple finishing touch elevates the dish and provides a perfect balance of creaminess and brightness.
Serve the creamy lemon chicken over a bed of vegetables, rice, or pasta for a complete, nutritious meal. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fresh herbs come together to create a deliciously satisfying dish that’s both comforting and full of vibrant flavors. Enjoy every bite!
This versatile sauce can also be used with other dishes! For example, you can drizzle it over your grilled chicken wraps for a refreshing twist.
Variations and Customizations for Your Creamy Lemon Chicken
Add Vegetables to Make it a Complete Meal
Why Add Vegetables?
Adding vegetables to your creamy lemon chicken is a simple way to make the dish more nutritious and satisfying. Vegetables provide additional vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making the meal more balanced. Vegetables like spinach, broccoli, and asparagus pair beautifully with the creamy lemon sauce, adding texture and color to your plate. The freshness of these vegetables complements the rich, tangy sauce, creating a dish that is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients.
Spinach for Extra Greens
Spinach is an excellent choice to add to your creamy lemon chicken. It wilts quickly and blends seamlessly with the creamy sauce, contributing a mild, earthy flavor. Rich in iron and antioxidants, spinach enhances the nutritional value of the dish while complementing the bright lemony taste. Simply stir fresh spinach into the sauce during the final steps of cooking, allowing it to wilt before serving.
Broccoli or Asparagus for Crunch
For a heartier option, consider adding broccoli or asparagus to your creamy lemon chicken. Both vegetables provide a satisfying crunch and a fresh contrast to the smooth, creamy sauce. Broccoli is high in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, while asparagus offers folate and potassium. These vegetables also retain their bright green color and crisp texture when lightly cooked, making them a great addition to your meal.
Making It Low-Carb or Keto-Friendly
Choosing Low-Carb Side Options
If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, you can easily customize your creamy lemon chicken by swapping out traditional high-carb sides like potatoes or pasta. Cauliflower rice is a fantastic low-carb alternative to regular rice, and it soaks up the creamy lemon sauce just as well. To prepare cauliflower rice, pulse cauliflower florets in a food processor until it resembles rice grains, then sauté with a little olive oil and seasoning until tender.
Zucchini Noodles for a Keto Twist
Zucchini noodles, or “zoodles,” are another excellent low-carb option that pairs perfectly with creamy lemon chicken. Zucchini has a mild flavor and is very low in carbohydrates, making it a staple for keto meals. Use a spiralizer to create long strands of zucchini, then sauté them quickly in a pan with some olive oil. Serve the creamy lemon chicken on top of the zoodles, allowing the sauce to coat both the chicken and the noodles.
Making the Meal Fully Keto-Friendly
To keep your creamy lemon chicken dish keto-friendly, make sure to use full-fat cream or Greek yogurt in the sauce, as both provide healthy fats without adding unnecessary carbs. You can also add extra herbs and spices, like thyme or rosemary, to enhance the flavors without adding any carbs. Avoid adding any sugar or high-carb thickeners to the sauce for a truly keto-compliant meal.
Switching Up the Protein
Why Switch Protein Options?
While chicken breast is the go-to choice for creamy lemon chicken, you can easily switch up the protein to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Chicken thighs, turkey breast, or even lean pork can be great alternatives, providing different flavors and textures while still pairing wonderfully with the creamy lemon sauce.
Using Chicken Thighs for More Flavor
Chicken thighs are a flavorful alternative to chicken breasts and can add a slightly richer taste to the dish. Thighs are higher in fat, which makes them juicy and tender, even when cooked for a longer time. If you choose to use chicken thighs, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as they typically take longer to cook than chicken breasts. However, they’re an excellent choice for anyone looking for a more indulgent, flavorful meal while still keeping the dish relatively healthy.
Turkey Breast for a Leaner Option
For a leaner protein option, turkey breast works well in place of chicken. Turkey is lower in fat and offers a mild flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy lemon sauce. Just like chicken, turkey breast can be seasoned and cooked in the same manner, ensuring a deliciously tender and juicy result. You can even use ground turkey for a different texture, creating a creamy turkey meatball or turkey patty variation.
By making these simple swaps and customizations, you can enjoy a new take on creamy lemon chicken, keeping the meal exciting, nutritious, and tailored to your specific dietary needs.
How to Serve Creamy Lemon Chicken for Dinner
Side Dishes That Pair Perfectly
Roasted Potatoes
Creamy lemon chicken pairs beautifully with roasted potatoes, which complement the richness of the sauce. Roasted potatoes can be seasoned with garlic, rosemary, or thyme for an aromatic, savory side that adds texture and balance to the meal. The crispy edges and soft interior of roasted potatoes offer a satisfying contrast to the creamy chicken.
Rice Options
If you prefer something lighter, serve your creamy lemon chicken with rice. A bed of fluffy white rice or brown rice is a great base that soaks up the flavorful sauce, adding a nice contrast in texture. For an extra touch, consider making lemon rice or adding herbs like parsley or cilantro to tie in the dish’s citrusy theme.
Light Salad
For a fresher option, a simple mixed green salad works wonderfully with creamy lemon chicken. The light, crisp texture of lettuce, spinach, or arugula offers a refreshing counterpoint to the rich and creamy sauce. Top your salad with a lemon vinaigrette or olive oil for a bright, healthy pairing that adds a crunchy element to your meal.
Great for Meal Prep
Prepare in Advance for Busy Weeks
Creamy lemon chicken is perfect for meal prep. You can cook the chicken, make the sauce, and store the components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat the chicken and sauce in a skillet, adding a little water or broth if necessary to loosen the sauce. This way, you’ll have a healthy, flavorful dinner ready in minutes throughout the week.
Portioning for the Week
For efficient meal prep, portion out the chicken and sauce into individual containers with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables or rice. This ensures you have balanced, healthy meals for lunch or dinner without spending much time cooking. Prepping this meal in advance saves time and helps you stick to your healthy eating goals.
Freezing for Later
If you’d like to prep even further in advance, creamy lemon chicken can be frozen for future use. After cooking, allow the chicken to cool, then portion it out in freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat the dish on the stovetop for a quick and satisfying meal.
Make It a Family Favorite
Kid-Friendly Flavors
Creamy lemon chicken can easily become a family favorite, even for picky eaters. To make it more appealing to kids, consider adjusting the level of citrus to ensure it’s not too tangy. You can reduce the amount of lemon juice and zest to create a milder, creamier flavor that is still delicious. Additionally, pairing the dish with familiar sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or macaroni and cheese will help entice younger palates.
Get Creative with the Sauce
If your family loves a thicker or more indulgent sauce, you can add grated cheese like Parmesan to the sauce to make it even creamier and more comforting. A sprinkle of grated cheese not only enhances the flavor but also adds a layer of richness that kids often enjoy.
Making It a Fun Family Meal
Another way to make this dish more interactive and fun for kids is to serve it as part of a “build-your-own” dinner. You can prepare the chicken in smaller strips and offer different sides like rice, vegetables, and sauces on the side, so everyone can assemble their plate according to their preferences. This gives children the option to customize their meal and feel more involved in the dinner process, which is often a helpful way to encourage them to try new dishes.
By adjusting the flavors and presentation, creamy lemon chicken can become a meal everyone in the family will look forward to. With the right sides, meal prep strategies, and tweaks to suit different tastes, this dish can be a go-to option for quick, nutritious dinners that everyone will enjoy.
Creamy Lemon Chicken
Ingredients
For the Crispy Chicken:
- 600 g / 1.2lb chicken breasts 2 large
- 1/2 tsp cooking salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup flour
- 40 g / 3 tbsp butter unsalted
For the Lemon Cream Sauce:
- 1 – 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 1/4 cups chicken broth/stock
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 3 – 4 tbsp fresh lemon juice adjust to taste, start with 3 tbsp
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard
- 3/4 cup parmesan cheese freshly grated or finely shredded
To Serve:
- Pasta of choice e.g., linguine
- Finely chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Crispy Chicken:
- Slice chicken breasts horizontally to create 4 thin steaks.
- Sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper, then coat with flour, shaking off excess.
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook chicken for 2 minutes per side until golden and crispy, then remove from pan and set aside.
2️⃣ Make the Creamy Lemon Sauce:
- If needed, add a little more butter to the pan.
- Sauté garlic for 10 seconds, then add chicken broth, cream, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.
- Scrape the bottom of the pan to dissolve brown bits into the liquid. Use a whisk if needed.
- Add parmesan cheese and let simmer for 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Season with salt, pepper, and adjust lemon juice to taste.
3️⃣ Combine and Serve:
- Return the chicken to the pan, coating it with the sauce.
- Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Plate the chicken with pasta or mashed potatoes, spoon sauce over, and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- For a lighter version: Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or evaporated milk.
- For extra crispiness: Dredge chicken in panko breadcrumbs before cooking.
- Serving ideas: Best with linguine, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.
summary
Creamy lemon chicken is the perfect balance of health, flavor, and convenience, making it ideal for a quick dinner or meal prep. With lean chicken breasts, fresh lemon, garlic, and a creamy sauce, this dish delivers a nutritious, satisfying meal without compromising on taste.
This versatile recipe allows you to customize the sauce with Greek yogurt for a lighter option or heavy cream for indulgence. Serve it with roasted potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Ready to enjoy creamy lemon chicken your way? Give it a try today!
Let us know how it turned out in the comments below! We’d love to hear your thoughts and any creative twists you added to the dish!
FAQ
What is creamy lemon chicken made of?
Creamy lemon chicken is made with chicken breasts, lemon juice, garlic, cream, parmesan cheese, and seasonings for a rich, tangy flavor.
How do you thicken creamy lemon sauce?
You can thicken the sauce by simmering it longer, adding more parmesan, or using a cornstarch slurry.
Can I make creamy lemon chicken without cream?
Yes! Substitute Greek yogurt, coconut milk, or evaporated milk for a lighter option.
What can I serve with creamy lemon chicken?
Serve it with pasta, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Can I make creamy lemon chicken ahead of time?
Yes! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, then reheat gently.
Is creamy lemon chicken healthy?
Yes! It’s high in protein and can be made healthier by using low-fat cream or yogurt.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs add more juiciness and flavor to the dish.
How do I store and reheat creamy lemon chicken?
Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on low heat to prevent the sauce from separating.
Can I freeze creamy lemon chicken?
Not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate when thawed.
What herbs pair well with creamy lemon chicken?
Fresh parsley, thyme, or basil enhance the dish’s flavors beautifully.
How to add lemon to cream sauce without curdling?
Add lemon juice gradually off heat and whisk continuously. Use heavy cream instead of milk, as its high fat content prevents curdling.
How do you thicken lemon sauce?
Simmer the sauce longer, add more parmesan cheese, or use a cornstarch slurry (mix cornstarch with water before adding).
Do you put lemon juice on chicken before or after cooking?
Lemon juice is best used before cooking as a marinade to tenderize the chicken or after cooking for a fresh, tangy finish.
Do you add lemon before or after cream?
Always add cream first, then stir in lemon juice off the heat to prevent curdling.
How to prevent cream from curdling when adding lemon?
Use heavy cream, keep the heat low, and stir constantly. Avoid sudden temperature changes.
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. Use evaporated milk for a richer texture, or add butter to whole milk.
Can I add lemon to heavy cream?
Yes, but add it gradually and off heat while whisking to prevent separation.
When not to use lemon?
Avoid using lemon in dairy-based sauces over high heat, as it can cause curdling. Also, avoid it in cast-iron pans, as it may react with the metal.
How to stop cream splitting in a sauce?
Use heavy cream, stir continuously, and avoid sudden heat changes. Adding a little cornstarch can help stabilize the sauce.
How do you add cream to sauce without curdling?
Add cream slowly over low heat, stir constantly, and avoid adding acidic ingredients too soon.
What happens when you boil milk?
Milk scalds and forms a skin on top. If boiled too long, it can separate and curdle.
Can heavy cream go in the oven?
Yes! Heavy cream is heat-stable and works well in baked dishes like casseroles and gratins.
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Was very easy and simple to make and nice to freeze for up to 2 weeks so I can just go to the freezer and pull lunch out for work.
Absolutely delicious recipe! Like one of the other comments I added lemon zest and shredded Parmesan.
I’m sure I would have been happy with the outcome either way but I LOVED this dish!
I couldn’t believe how fast and easy it was to make this. I, tragically, didn’t have any white wine or broth, so I used water. I also thickened the sauce a tad with a cornstarch slurry. It was amazing!
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