Creamy Lemon Garlic Skillet Chicken

There’s something special about a one-pan meal, and this Creamy Lemon Garlic Skillet Chicken delivers in every way. The chicken is incredibly tender, and the sauce, bright, garlicky, and creamy ties everything together beautifully. It’s one of those dishes that feels gourmet but comes together in no time at all.

This easy chicken dinner is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s full of fresh flavor, tastes like restaurant-quality food, and uses simple pantry ingredients. Even better? It reheats well and is a great addition to your weekly dinner rotation.

Why I Love This Recipe

This Creamy Lemon Garlic Skillet Chicken is a lifesaver on hectic days. It takes about 20 minutes to make, yet tastes like something you’d order at your favorite restaurant. The flavor, rich yet vibrant, always impresses my family. It’s versatile, comforting, and consistently delicious. Truly, a recipe worth keeping.

Creamy Lemon Garlic Skillet Chicken Ingredients

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient brings something special, working together to create a sauce that’s perfectly balanced — creamy, zesty, and savory.

Core Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Tender and quick-cooking, they soak up all that delicious sauce.
• Olive oil and butter: The dual fats create flavor and help brown the chicken beautifully.
• Garlic: Provides that irresistible aroma and savory punch.
• Chicken broth: Adds depth and thins the sauce slightly for a silky texture.
• Heavy cream: Gives the sauce its signature creamy consistency.
• Lemon juice: Adds brightness and balances out the richness of the cream.
• Italian seasoning: Brings herbal notes for added flavor and aroma.
• Salt and pepper: Simple but essential seasonings to bring it all together.

Substitutions and Tips

• No chicken broth? Use water or vegetable stock for an easy swap.
• If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream — though it’ll be slightly less rich.
• Fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme add a vibrant finish — use what you have.
• Add some sautéed spinach or mushrooms for extra vegetables and texture.

How to Make Creamy Lemon Garlic Skillet Chicken

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. If they’re thick, slice them horizontally or pound them to even thickness for faster cooking and tenderness.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the chicken for 4–6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant — be careful not to burn it. This forms the base of your sauce.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pan

Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the pan — these add incredible flavor. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce

Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Taste and adjust lemon, salt, or pepper as desired.

Step 6: Finish the Dish

Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over the top. Let it warm through for 1–2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Top with freshly chopped parsley and a squeeze of extra lemon juice if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, flavorful goodness.

How to Store

Allow your Creamy Lemon Garlic Skillet Chicken to cool completely before storing. Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. Freezing is not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat for best results.

Tips for Success

• Pat the chicken dry before seasoning for better browning.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet — sear in batches if needed.
• Keep an eye on the garlic to prevent burning.
• Adjust lemon juice to your taste for the right amount of brightness.
• Taste the sauce before serving to balance seasoning.
• Always use a thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet (cast iron recommended)
• Tongs for flipping chicken
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Small bowl for ingredients or serving sauce

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over fluffy rice or pasta to soak up the sauce.
• Pair with crusty bread to enjoy every drop of the creamy lemon sauce.
• Add a bright green salad with a light vinaigrette on the side.
• Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or green beans complement this dish beautifully.
• A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs work wonderfully — they’re juicy and forgiving. Just add a few extra minutes of cooking time and make sure they reach 165°F (74°C).

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Let it simmer a bit longer to reduce naturally, or mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the sauce until thickened.

Can I make this in advance?

The sauce tastes best fresh. You can, however, cook the chicken ahead and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, reheat gently and prepare the sauce fresh for the best texture and flavor.

What can I use instead of parsley for garnish?

No fresh parsley? Try a sprinkle of dried parsley, lemon zest, or chopped chives for color and freshness.

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