Savor the delightful flavors of our creamy lemon chicken recipe, a dish that marries tender chicken with a rich, tangy sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. The combination of lemon and cream creates a luxurious sauce that beautifully complements the chicken, making every bite irresistible. Let’s dive into the details of this scrumptious dish!
Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– Juice and zest of 2 lemons
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Chopped parsley, for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time: 10 minutes. Cooking time: 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 1 chicken breast with sauce) contains about 450 calories, 30g protein, 35g fat, and 5g carbohydrates. This is based on one person’s serving size.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add butter and let it melt.
6. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
7. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
8. Stir in heavy cream, lemon juice, and zest.
9. Add fresh thyme and mix well, allowing sauce to thicken.
10. Return chicken to the skillet, coating it with the creamy sauce, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version. Additionally, chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a juicier option. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can replace thyme for a different flavor profile.
Serving and Pairings
This creamy lemon chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. A side of garlic bread would also complement the dish beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. This dish can be frozen, but the sauce may separate upon thawing; just stir well before serving.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t overcook the chicken; it should be juicy and tender.
– Avoid using too much lemon juice at once; it can overpower the dish.
– Ensure the skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken to get a nice sear.
– Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor; stale herbs can dull the dish.
– Don’t skip the resting time for the chicken after cooking.
Helpful Tips
– Marinating the chicken in lemon juice for an hour enhances flavor.
– Consider adding capers for an extra layer of taste.
– Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked to 165°F.
– Garnish with lemon slices for an attractive presentation.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any flour or gluten-based ingredients. Just ensure the chicken broth is gluten-free.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
You can use coconut cream or a dairy-free cream substitute to replace heavy cream for a dairy-free version.
What sides do you recommend serving with this dish?
This creamy lemon chicken goes well with rice, pasta, or a fresh green salad. You could also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. Always ensure it’s fully cooked to a safe temperature.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
Conclusion
This creamy lemon chicken recipe is a delightful dish that combines zesty flavors with a rich sauce, perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a meal that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy this flavorful dish with your favorite sides for a complete dining experience.
Creamy Lemon Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Juice and zest of 2 lemons
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add butter and let it melt.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in heavy cream, lemon juice, and zest.
- Add fresh thyme and mix well, allowing sauce to thicken.
- Return chicken to the skillet, coating it with the creamy sauce, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
