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Lemon Garlic Cream Chicken Skillet

Lemon Garlic Cream Chicken Skillet

Lemon Garlic Cream Chicken Skillet is a flavorful and comforting one-pan dinner featuring tender chicken breasts cooked in a luscious creamy sauce infused with bright lemon and savory garlic. Quick and easy to prepare, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights and pairs beautifully with various sides or pasta to create a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
  • 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 lemon, juiced and zested
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare and Sear the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
  2. Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add minced fresh garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness.
  3. Build the Cream Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits for extra flavor. Then stir in the heavy cream along with lemon juice and lemon zest. Let the sauce gently simmer until it thickens slightly.
  4. Finish with Parmesan and Combine: Gradually whisk in grated Parmesan cheese for richness and a hint of saltiness. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over the top. Let everything simmer together for a few minutes to meld flavors.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and fresh aroma before serving hot.

Notes

  • Pat chicken dry to achieve a beautiful sear and prevent steaming.
  • Use fresh lemon zest for a more vibrant citrus flavor than bottled lemon juice alone.
  • Allow the sauce to simmer gently to thicken properly without breaking.
  • Cook garlic on low and slow to keep it mellow and fragrant without burning.
  • Let the chicken rest briefly off the heat before serving to keep juices locked in.

Nutrition

Keywords: Lemon garlic chicken, creamy chicken skillet, easy dinner, weeknight meal, one-pan chicken