Discover how to make creamy lemon garlic chicken in under 30 minutes! This easy, flavorful dish is perfect for busy weeknights or special dinners. A healthy, protein-packed meal with a burst of citrus and rich garlic sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe
If you’re craving a dish that’s both comforting and bursting with flavor, you’re in the right place! Creamy lemon garlic chicken is a restaurant-quality meal you can make at home. It’s rich, tangy, and loaded with savory goodness — all in one skillet.
The best part? It’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans. Plus, it pairs beautifully with veggies, pasta, or rice, giving you endless serving options.
Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this creamy lemon garlic chicken, you probably already have most of the ingredients in your kitchen.
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a healthier option)
• Juice of 2 lemons
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)
• Lemon slices (optional, for serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken
Follow these easy steps to whip up your new favorite chicken dish!
1. Prep and Season the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 5–6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Lemon Sauce
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the pan (hello, flavor!).
Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the heavy cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, thyme, and oregano. Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the Parmesan Cheese
Whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Combine Everything
Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Spoon the creamy garlic lemon sauce over the chicken and let everything simmer for another 3–4 minutes.
Tips for the Perfect Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken
• Don’t overcook the chicken: Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Balance the lemon flavor: If you prefer a milder citrus taste, start with the juice of one lemon and add more as needed.
• Thicken the sauce: If you want a thicker sauce, mix 1 tsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water and stir it in during the final simmer.
Healthy Substitutions for a Lighter Dish
Want a healthier twist? No problem!
• Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or light coconut milk.
• Use zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta or white rice.
• Opt for low-fat Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
What to Serve with Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken
This dish is incredibly versatile, making it easy to pair with your favorite sides.
Here are a few ideas:
• Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans
• Pasta or Rice: For a heartier meal
• Garlic Bread: To soak up that delicious sauce
• Quinoa or Couscous: For a healthier grain option
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This dish tastes even better the next day.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
Final Thoughts: Try This Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Tonight!
Now that you know how to make creamy lemon garlic chicken, you can impress your family and friends with minimal effort. It’s a simple yet elegant meal, perfect for any occasion. Plus, with all the healthy ingredient swaps, it can easily fit into your balanced lifestyle.
So, grab your skillet and get cooking — this delicious, creamy dish is waiting for you!