Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious dinner, then this Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken is the dish for you! It’s simple to make and full of flavor. Perfect for family meals, this recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe stands out because it combines tender chicken with a rich, creamy lemon garlic sauce. It’s quick and perfect for busy weeknights or even to impress guests. Plus, the fresh lemon juice adds a bright flavor that makes the meal feel light and refreshing!

How to Make Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken

Ingredients:

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to even thickness)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon wedges (for garnish)

Directions:

Prepare and Cook the Chicken: In a shallow bowl, mix the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Dredge the chicken breasts in the flour mixture, shaking off any extra flour. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until they are golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Remove the chicken and set it aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Stir in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Whisk in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine and Serve: Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Let it simmer for 2 more minutes to heat through. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges. This dish is great over rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta to soak up that creamy sauce. You can also pair it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. Pro tip: Add capers for a briny twist or some red pepper flakes for a little heat!

How to Serve Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken

Serve this dish hot, right from the skillet. It’s great on its own or paired with sides like rice, pasta, or a light salad. Remember to drizzle extra sauce on top for even more flavor!

How to Store Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken

If you have leftovers, let the chicken cool completely and place it in an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until hot.

Tips to Make Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken

Make sure to pound the chicken to an even thickness for even cooking.
Adjust the lemon juice to your taste for more or less tanginess.
Don’t skip the fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness!

Variation

You can easily make this dish with shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different protein. The sauce works great with veggies too, like zucchini or asparagus!

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking.
Is this recipe good for meal prep? Absolutely! Just store it in individual portions for easy lunches throughout the week.
What can I serve with this chicken? It pairs well with rice, pasta, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. Enjoy experimenting with different sides!