The enticing aroma of creamy lemon chicken wafts through the air, teasing your taste buds and promising a delightful dinner. This dish perfectly balances zesty lemon with rich creaminess, creating a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more.
Picture this: you gather around the dinner table with family or friends, laughter filling the air as you serve up plates of this luscious dish. It’s the kind of meal that transforms an ordinary evening into something special, memorable for all the right reasons.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy lemon chicken is quick to prepare, making weeknight dinners effortless
- Its vibrant flavors and creamy texture will impress anyone at your table
- The bright presentation makes it visually appealing and perfect for any occasion
- Versatile enough to pair with rice, pasta, or veggies, you’ll love how it adapts to your preferences
I remember the first time I made creamy lemon chicken; my kids devoured it in seconds and asked for seconds—an impressive feat considering they usually prefer cereal for dinner.

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
-
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust based on your crowd.
-
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves; the fresher, the better for an aromatic kick.
-
Heavy Cream: For that ultra-rich sauce; don’t skimp here unless you’re feeling adventurous.
-
Zesty Lemons: Fresh lemons are key; their juice brightens up the entire dish.
-
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over seasoning.
-
Parmesan Cheese: Grate it fresh if possible; it melts beautifully and adds depth to the sauce.
-
Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle at the end adds a pop of color and flavor.
-
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out all those flavors!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. Chop garlic finely and zest those lemons to unleash their fragrant oils.
Sear the Chicken: Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a splash of oil and cook chicken breasts until golden brown on both sides, about 6-7 minutes per side.
Create the Sauce: Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. In the same pan, add garlic and sauté until fragrant before squeezing in lemon juice and adding broth.
Add Creaminess: Stir in heavy cream along with grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined into a velvety sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Finish Up: Return chicken to skillet, allowing it to simmer in the sauce until cooked through—about 5 minutes more. Garnish with parsley before serving!
Enjoying creamy lemon chicken is like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket while sipping hot cocoa on a chilly day—comforting yet invigorating!
You Must Know
- Creamy lemon chicken is a delightful dish that balances tanginess and richness
- The buttery sauce coats each bite beautifully, making it perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy dinner at home
- The aroma of garlic and lemon fills the kitchen, promising a tasty meal
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken until golden brown first, then cook the pasta while preparing the creamy sauce. This method ensures everything is ready simultaneously, maximizing flavor and efficiency.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different proteins like shrimp or tofu, or add veggies like spinach for a nutritious boost. Personalizing the dish makes it uniquely yours!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover creamy lemon chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat to preserve its creamy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly juicy chicken, always let it rest after cooking before slicing
- Avoid adding too much lemon juice early on to prevent overpowering flavors
- Serve with fresh herbs for an aromatic finish that elevates the dish
There’s something magical about creating this creamy lemon chicken recipe that brings back fond memories of family gatherings and laughter around the table.

FAQ
What can I serve with creamy lemon chicken?
Pair it with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Can I make creamy lemon chicken ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best to store sauce separately to maintain creaminess when reheating.
How do I avoid overcooking the chicken?
Use a meat thermometer; aim for 165°F for perfectly cooked chicken every time.
Creamy Lemon Chicken
Creamy lemon chicken is a delightful dish that combines the zesty brightness of fresh lemons with the rich, comforting texture of a creamy sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, transforming an ordinary meal into a special occasion. Serve it over rice, pasta, or alongside vegetables for a versatile dining experience that will impress family and friends alike.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Searing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Juice and zest of 2 zesty lemons
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and prepare by mincing garlic and zesting lemons.
- Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil and sear chicken until golden brown, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant; add lemon juice and broth.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Return chicken to the skillet, simmer in the sauce for an additional 5 minutes until cooked through. Garnish with parsley before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce (220g)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 41g
- Cholesterol: 150mg





Leave a Comment