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30-Minute Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet

Close-up of seared chicken pieces simmering in a rich, bright yellow creamy lemon chicken sauce, garnished with fresh parsley.

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Make restaurant-quality creamy lemon chicken fast. This one-pan skillet recipe delivers tender chicken in a rich, zesty lemon cream sauce in just 30 minutes, perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  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 or 74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
  4. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Do not let it burn.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 1 minute.
  6. Stir in the heavy cream, lemon juice, 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 slightly thickened. Taste the sauce and add more salt or 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. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving over pasta, rice, or vegetables.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, dredge the seasoned chicken lightly in flour before searing.
  • If you prefer a tangier sauce, add 1 teaspoon of capers along with the chicken broth.
  • This dish pairs well with cooked orzo or fettuccine pasta to soak up the sauce.

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