If you’re craving a dish that balances creamy richness with a tangy zest, this creamy lemon chicken recipe is your answer. Perfectly seared chicken breasts are enveloped in a luxurious lemon sauce, making it an ideal choice for a cozy dinner or a special occasion. Pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
– 2 chicken breasts
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 lemon (juice and zest)
– 2 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Optional: asparagus for serving
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 chicken breast with sauce) contains approximately:
– Calories: 520
– Protein: 30g
– Carbohydrates: 6g
– Fat: 45g
This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
3. Add chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
4. Remove chicken and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
6. Pour in chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the skillet.
7. Add heavy cream, lemon juice, and zest. Stir well.
8. Mix in Dijon mustard and let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes.
9. Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it in the sauce.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
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 result. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can also enhance the flavor.
Serving and Pairings
This creamy lemon chicken pairs beautifully with steamed asparagus, rice, or a fresh garden salad. A chilled white wine complements the dish perfectly.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce thickens too much. This dish does not freeze well due to the cream.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to blandness.
- Overcooking the chicken will make it dry.
- Using high heat can cause the sauce to separate.
- Skipping the deglazing step can miss out on flavor.
- Not letting the sauce simmer long enough may result in a thin consistency.
Helpful Tips
- Ensure the chicken is at room temperature before cooking.
- Use fresh lemons for the best flavor.
- Adjust the thickness of the sauce with more or less cream.
- Serve immediately for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
While it’s possible, fresh chicken yields better results. If using frozen, ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
You can replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative.
What side dishes complement creamy lemon chicken?
Steamed vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes are excellent choices to pair with this dish.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
It’s best to make it fresh, but you can prep the ingredients in advance for quicker cooking.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it stores well in the fridge and can be reheated for future meals.
Conclusion
This creamy lemon chicken recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors that will elevate any dining experience. With its simplicity and elegance, it’s perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions. Enjoy the zesty creaminess with your favorite sides, and savor every bite!
Creamy Lemon Chicken
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 lemon juice and zest
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Optional: asparagus for serving
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Pour in chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the skillet.
- Add heavy cream, lemon juice, and zest; stir well.
- Mix in Dijon mustard and let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it in the sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
