Description
Creamy lemon garlic chicken brings zesty Mediterranean flavors straight to dinner tables with minimal effort. Juicy chicken breasts swim in a silky sauce that balances tangy citrus and rich garlic, making you crave each delightful bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs / 680 grams)
Flavor Enhancers:
- 5 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 large lemons)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Liquid and Fat Components:
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare a medium-heat skillet and coat with olive oil. Thoroughly season chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both surfaces.
- Carefully place seasoned chicken into the hot skillet, cooking approximately 5 minutes per side until achieving a golden-brown exterior and ensuring internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Transfer cooked chicken to a clean plate, keeping warm while maintaining its juiciness.
- In the same skillet, quickly sauté minced garlic for 30-45 seconds, releasing its aromatic essence without burning.
- Gently pour heavy cream into the skillet, creating a rich foundation for the sauce.
- Add fresh lemon juice and chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to deglaze the pan and incorporate all flavorful browned bits.
- Allow sauce to simmer for 2-3 minutes, watching it gradually thicken and develop a silky consistency.
- Sprinkle dried thyme into the sauce, stirring to distribute the herb’s subtle earthy flavor.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
- Return chicken to the skillet, coating each piece generously with the creamy lemon garlic sauce.
- Plate immediately, spooning extra sauce over the chicken and serving alongside pasta or fluffy rice.
Notes
- Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts of similar thickness to ensure even cooking and prevent dry edges.
- Pat chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning to help achieve a perfect golden-brown sear and lock in moisture.
- Use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled for brighter, more vibrant citrus flavor that elevates the entire dish.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt to reduce calories without sacrificing creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 530
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 37 g
- Saturated Fat: 19 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 44 g
- Cholesterol: 155 mg