If you’re looking for a dish that’s creamy, tangy, and packed with flavor, Creamy Lemon Chicken is a must-try! Juicy, pan-seared chicken breasts are smothered in a luxuriously creamy lemon sauce that’s bursting with fresh citrus, garlic, and herbs. It’s the perfect balance of rich and refreshing, making it a great option for a cozy dinner or an elegant meal for guests.
The best part? This recipe is simple, quick, and made in one pan! Let’s get started.
Table of Contents
What is Creamy Lemon Chicken?
Creamy Lemon Chicken is a one-pan dish where tender chicken is cooked in a silky lemon-infused cream sauce. The buttery richness of the sauce is perfectly balanced by the zesty brightness of lemon, making it both comforting and refreshing.
It pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables, making it an incredibly versatile meal. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will never disappoint!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Quick & Easy: Ready in 30 minutes and made in one pan.
✔️ Restaurant-Quality Flavor: Tastes like something you’d order at a fancy restaurant.
✔️ Rich & Refreshing: The creamy lemon sauce is indulgent yet light.
✔️ Versatile: Serve it over pasta, rice, or veggies for a complete meal.
✔️ Customizable: Can be made gluten-free, keto-friendly, or dairy-free with simple swaps.
Ingredients for Creamy Lemon Chicken
To achieve the perfect balance of creamy and zesty, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or chicken thighs)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (for color and mild smokiness)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging, optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)
For the Creamy Lemon Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (adds extra citrus flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, adds depth)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or basil
- Extra lemon slices for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels—this helps with browning.
- Season both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Lightly coat the chicken in flour (if using). This helps create a crispy crust and thickens the sauce later.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Lemon Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan (this adds flavor).
- Stir in the heavy cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning.
- Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
Step 4: Combine & Serve
- Return the seared chicken to the pan, spooning the sauce over the top.
- Simmer for 2-3 more minutes to let the flavors blend.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Creamy Lemon Chicken
- Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Bottled lemon juice won’t give the same bright, fresh flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F (74°C).
- For a Thicker Sauce: Let it simmer longer or add a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water).
- Balance the Acidity: If the lemon flavor is too strong, add a pinch of sugar or extra Parmesan.
- Make it Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream for coconut cream and Parmesan for nutritional yeast.
What to Serve with Creamy Lemon Chicken
This dish pairs well with sides that soak up the creamy sauce or add a fresh contrast.
🥔 Mashed Potatoes – A rich and comforting pairing.
🍚 Steamed Rice – Soaks up the sauce beautifully.
🥦 Roasted Vegetables – Asparagus, broccoli, or green beans complement the flavors.
🍞 Crusty Bread – Perfect for mopping up the sauce.
Beverage Pairings:
🍷 White Wine: Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc enhances the citrusy flavors.
🍋 Iced Lemon Tea: A refreshing, non-alcoholic option.
Storing and Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or cream to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
FAQs About Creamy Lemon Chicken
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Thighs stay juicy and add extra flavor.
2. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and omit Parmesan.
3. How do I thicken the sauce?
Let it simmer longer or add a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water).
4. Can I add vegetables?
Of course! Spinach, mushrooms, or asparagus work wonderfully.
5. Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes! This dish is naturally low-carb and keto-friendly.
Conclusion: A Bright & Creamy Chicken Dish You’ll Love
Creamy Lemon Chicken is the perfect blend of richness and freshness. The creamy sauce, infused with garlic and lemon, takes simple chicken to the next level. Whether you’re making this for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive dinner for guests, this dish delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
So grab your skillet and give it a try—your new favorite chicken dish awaits!
Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let us know how it turned out!
