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Easy Creamy Lemon Chicken Recipe

Best Creamy Lemon Chicken Recipe

Sarah Brown
Before diving into the delicious world of creamy lemon chicken, let’s brainstorm some delightful companions for this dish. Think about a vibrant side of steamed broccoli that adds that lovely pop of green and a crunchy texture. 
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 4 Servings
Calories 480 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet

Ingredients
  

Crispy Chicken

  • 600 g / 1.2lb boneless skinless chicken breasts (2 large) (Note 1)
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose plain flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt or cooking salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika for a subtle depth of flavor
  • 40 g / 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 –2 garlic cloves finely minced
  • 1 1/4 cups chicken broth or stock
  • 3/4 cup heavy thickened cream (Note 2)
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 3 –4 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice adjust to taste, start with 3 tbsp
  • 3/4 cup parmesan cheese freshly grated or store-bought finely shredded (Note 3)

To Serve

  • Pasta of choice I used linguine
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest for an extra burst of citrus flavor
  • Finely chopped fresh parsley

Instructions
 

  • Let’s dive into the steps!

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  • Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This helps achieve that golden sear we all love. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Then, dust both sides with flour, shaking off any excess.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

  • In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once sizzling, add the chicken. Sear for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. Use a meat thermometer for best results; it should read 165°F (75°C). When done, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover it loosely with foil to keep warm.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

  • In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any delicious brown bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds depth to the sauce.

Step 4: Add Cream and Lemon

  • Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and Dijon mustard. Let this simmer for about 3-4 minutes to thicken. Then add the lemon juice and freshly grated parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and incorporated, forming that creamy embrace essential for the chicken.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce

  • Return the chicken to the skillet, coating each piece with the creamy sauce. Allow everything to simmer together for another minute or two. This is where the flavors meld, creating a dish that’s bursting with taste.

Step 6: Serve

  • Plate your creamy lemon chicken over pasta, drizzling some sauce from the skillet on top. A sprinkle of lemon zest and finely chopped parsley adds that finishing touch. And just like that, dinner is served!

Notes

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and lemon juice deliver much better flavor than their dried counterparts. Fresh herbs also enhance your dish.
  • Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Keep an eye on those chicken breasts. Overcooking can lead to dryness. If you’re unsure, letting them rest after cooking helps keep the juiciness.
  • Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, reduce the amount of heavy cream. Swap in a lighter cream or even a plant-based alternative.
  • Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to play around with the spices. A bit of thyme or Italian herbs could be a tasty addition.
  • Check Seasoning: Always taste your sauce before serving. You might need a pinch more salt or a splash of lemon for brightness.

Nutrition

Calories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 40gFat: 25g
Keyword Best Creamy Lemon Chicken Recipe
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