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30-Minute Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet

Close-up of seared chicken breasts simmering in a rich, creamy lemon sauce, topped with grated Parmesan and fresh parsley.

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Make this restaurant-style creamy lemon chicken in one pan in just 30 minutes. This recipe features tender chicken breasts coated in a rich, bright lemon cream sauce perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Add the chicken breasts to the hot skillet and cook for 5 to 7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
  4. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the same skillet and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Do not let the garlic burn.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the liquid simmer for 1 minute.
  6. Stir in the heavy cream and lemon zest. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
  7. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste the sauce and adjust salt and pepper if needed.
  8. Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon the creamy lemon sauce over the chicken.
  9. Simmer for 1 to 2 minutes to heat the chicken through.
  10. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving immediately over pasta, rice, or vegetables.

Notes

  • For an extra bright flavor, add 1 tablespoon of capers to the sauce when you add the chicken broth.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, let the cream mixture simmer uncovered for an extra 2 to 3 minutes before adding the Parmesan cheese.
  • This dish pairs well with angel hair pasta or steamed asparagus for a complete meal.

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