Creamy Lemon Chicken Recipe

Discover the ultimate Creamy Lemon Chicken recipe, a perfect blend of juicy chicken breasts seared to golden perfection and smothered in a rich, tangy lemon cream sauce. This easy-to-make dinner is ideal for busy weeknights or elegant family gatherings. Serve with pasta, rice, or roasted veggies to create a versatile meal your whole family will love. Packed with Parmesan cheese, fresh garlic, and a splash of white wine, this dish offers restaurant-quality flavor in the comfort of your home. Perfect for those searching for quick chicken recipes, creamy chicken dinners, or a simple lemon chicken recipe that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients:

Chicken:

• 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
• Lemon pepper seasoning (see notes)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 cup olive oil

Sauce:

• 1/2 cup dry white wine (like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth
• 3/4 cup heavy cream (at room temperature)
• 1 chicken bouillon cube
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (see notes)
• 3 Tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 Tablespoons cold salted butter (optional)

For Serving:

• 3/4 lb. spaghetti (optional)

To Garnish:

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, roughly chopped
• Freshly sliced lemon

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Slice each chicken breast in half to create 2 thinner pieces.
   • Place the chicken between saran wrap or in a gallon freezer bag and pound it to about ½ inch thickness using a meat mallet.
   • Season the chicken with lemon pepper seasoning. Add salt if needed (lemon pepper seasoning may already include salt).
   • Combine the flour, Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder on a large plate. Set aside.
   • Pat the chicken dry and dredge each piece in the flour mixture. Tap off the excess.
2. Sear the Chicken:
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside, leaving any brown bits in the pan.
3. Make the Sauce:
   • Add the white wine and minced garlic to the skillet. Let it simmer for 4 minutes, reducing the wine by half. Scrape the brown bits from the pan with a silicone spatula for extra flavor.
   • Add chicken broth, chicken bouillon, and mustard powder. Bring to a gentle boil and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to concentrate the flavors.
   • Reduce heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream.
   • Add the lemon juice, followed by the Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until smooth.
   • Return the chicken to the pan and let it heat through in the sauce.
   • (Optional) Swirl in cold butter for a silky finish.
4. Serve with Pasta (Optional):
   • While the chicken is warming in the sauce, cook spaghetti according to package directions. Drain well.
   • Remove the chicken and set aside on serving plates. Add spaghetti to the sauce and toss to coat.
   • Garnish with chopped parsley and fresh lemon slices before serving.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

This Creamy Lemon Chicken is a deliciously comforting dish that combines the perfect balance of tangy lemon and creamy richness. The crispy, golden-brown chicken breasts pair perfectly with the velvety sauce, making it a hit at the dinner table. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor – ideal for busy weeknights or special meals.

Tips:

• To ensure the chicken is tender and cooks evenly, pound it to an even ½ inch thickness.
• Don’t skip the step of deglazing the pan with wine, as those brown bits add incredible flavor to the sauce.
• If you prefer a richer sauce, add the optional butter at the end for a silky smooth finish.
• Make sure to use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor!

Variations and Substitutions:

• Pasta Substitute: You can serve this chicken with pasta, rice, or even mashed potatoes depending on your preference.
• Herb Options: For a different flavor profile, try adding fresh thyme or rosemary to the sauce.
• Wine Alternative: If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with more chicken broth or a splash of white grape juice for a non-alcoholic version.

FAQs:

Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it with the chicken just before serving. The flavors will only improve with time.

Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but it will take a bit longer to cook. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the chicken is cooked through.

Serving:

Serve your Creamy Lemon Chicken with your favorite pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or a light salad for a well-rounded meal.

Suggestions:

• Wine Pairing: Pair this creamy lemon chicken with a crisp, chilled Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio for the perfect balance of flavors.
• For extra freshness, consider adding a squeeze of lemon over the top right before serving.