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Creamy Garlic Chicken with Lemon

This Creamy Garlic Chicken with lemon is cozy, quick, and full of flavor. It features a creamy garlic sauce with a touch of lemon for brightness, making it perfect for weeknights or special occasions. Serve it over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes and enjoy a satisfying, fuss-free dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Main
Cuisine: American
Calories: 510
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Chicken
  • 4 chicken breasts or thighs
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour for dusting
Sauce
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp butter divided
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 1 tbsp fresh herbs like parsley or thyme, chopped

Equipment

  • Skillet

Method
 

  1. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and lightly dust with flour. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Sear chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add chicken broth, scrape the pan, then stir in heavy cream and lemon juice. Simmer for 2 minutes.
  5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. Return chicken to the skillet and coat with sauce. Simmer 2 more minutes.
  7. Garnish with lemon zest and fresh herbs before serving.

Notes

You can substitute cream with half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter version. Add cream cheese for extra richness. Pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta.