Creamy Lemon Chicken Skillet
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Creamy Lemon Chicken Skillet

Golden chicken finished in a silky lemon cream sauce with garlic and fresh herbs. Bright, rich, and still weeknight-friendly.

DifficultyEasyTotal time35 minServes4
01

Overview

Prep10 min
Cook25 min
Total35 min
Servings4
DifficultyEasy
02

Ingredients

03

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Tongs
  • Microplane or zester
  • Whisk
04

Method

01
Sear the chicken

Sear the chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Season the chicken with salt and pepper and sear 5 to 6 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

02
Build the lemon cream sauce

Build the lemon cream sauce

Lower the heat and saute the garlic for 30 seconds. Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze, scraping up the browned bits. Stir in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest and simmer 3 to 4 minutes, until slightly thickened.

03
Return chicken and finish

Return chicken and finish

Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over it; simmer 3 more minutes. Stir in the butter and sprinkle with the chopped herbs. Taste and adjust the salt or lemon, and serve warm.

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Tips

NotePat the chicken dry and pound it even so it cooks at the same rate.
NoteKeep the cream at a gentle simmer to avoid curdling.
NoteAdd a splash of broth if the sauce thickens too much during reheating.
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Nutrition

NoteNutrition varies by ingredient brands and serving size.
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Storage

RefrigeratorStore leftovers in an airtight container up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream.
FreezerFreezes well up to 2 months; thaw gently before reheating.
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Frequently asked

Can I make it dairy-free?+

Use coconut cream in place of heavy cream and olive oil instead of butter.

What can I serve it with?+

Rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread all soak up the sauce.

How do I know the sauce is thick enough?+

It should coat the back of a spoon and cling to the chicken.

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