Name: Creamy Lemon Garlic Skillet Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 pounds total, pounded to 1/2-inch thickness); 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more for seasoning); 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (plus more for seasoning); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 small shallot (finely chopped); 4 cloves garlic (minced); 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 cup half-and-half or whole milk; 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves; 1 small lemon (thinly sliced)

Introduction to Creamy Lemon Garlic Skillet Chicken

When the workweek drags on and time is short, creamy lemon garlic skillet chicken becomes an undeniable hero of my kitchen. As a go-to weeknight favorite, this dish delivers on flavor without demanding too much of your precious time. Imagine a pan filled with tender chicken breasts bathed in a creamy garlic sauce, brightened by the tang of fresh lemon. It’s comfort food at its finest and requires less than 30 minutes to whip up!

The allure of this dish lies not just in its taste but also in how versatile it is. You can pair it with a simple side salad or serve it over fluffy rice or pasta, soaking up that luscious sauce. Plus, the leftovers—if there are any—make for a fabulous lunch the next day!

Not to mention, it’s an excellent way to impress your friends or family during a casual dinner. The combination of tender chicken, rich creaminess, and zesty lemon brings a restaurant-quality meal right to your dining table. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to bring a bit of culinary magic into your weekday routine!

For those looking for tips on perfecting the sauce, check out this cooking resource for expert advice.

Ingredients for Creamy Lemon Garlic Skillet Chicken

When it comes to making creamy lemon garlic skillet chicken, having the right ingredients on hand is key to unlocking those rich flavors. Here’s what you’ll need for this delightful dish:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 pounds total), pounded to a uniform ½-inch thickness — this ensures even cooking and tenderness.
½ teaspoon kosher salt (plus more for seasoning) — essential for enhancing the overall flavor of the chicken.
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (plus more for seasoning) — adds a bit of heat and depth.
1 tablespoon olive oil — helps achieve that delicious golden sear on your chicken.
3 tablespoons unsalted butter — the secret to a rich, luscious sauce.
1 small shallot, finely chopped — for a subtle sweetness.
4 cloves garlic, minced — because you can never have too much garlic!
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour — to thicken the sauce perfectly.
1 cup half-and-half or whole milk — creates that creamy texture.
½ cup low-sodium chicken broth — for added depth of flavor.
Juice of 1 medium lemon (about 3 tablespoons) — brings that zesty brightness.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves — for a pop of color and freshness.
1 small lemon, thinly sliced — garnish for an extra zing.

Ready to indulge in this delicious dish? You can pick up these ingredients from your local grocery store or try shopping online for convenience. Enjoy the cooking!

Preparing Creamy Lemon Garlic Skillet Chicken

Cooking can sometimes feel like a chore, right? But making creamy lemon garlic skillet chicken is a delightful way to spend an evening in the kitchen. The combination of garlic, lemon, and rich creaminess turns an ordinary chicken dish into something truly special. Let’s walk through the process, making it as simple and enjoyable as possible!

Season and Prep the Chicken

Begin by getting your chicken ready. You want to start with four boneless, skinless chicken breasts—about two pounds, pounded to a nice, even ½-inch thickness. This helps ensure everything cooks uniformly. Use paper towels to thoroughly dry each piece, as this prepares the surface for browning. Generously season the chicken with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper on all sides. These simple seasonings are your foundation for flavor!

Sear the Chicken to Perfection

Now that your chicken is seasoned, it’s time to bring out the skillet. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. This is the prelude to a beautifully seared chicken! Once hot, carefully add the chicken, working in batches if necessary. Sear each side for about 6 to 7 minutes until deeply browned. Resist the urge to move them around too much – let them develop that gorgeous crust. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.

Create the Creamy Garlic Sauce

With the chicken out of the pan, it's time for the star of the show: the garlic sauce! Reduce the heat to medium and add three tablespoons of unsalted butter to the skillet. Once melted, toss in a finely chopped small shallot and four cloves of minced garlic, cooking for about a minute until fragrant. Next, sprinkle in two tablespoons of all-purpose flour and stir to coat the shallots and garlic. This step creates a roux that thickens your sauce.

Now, gradually stir in one cup of half-and-half (or whole milk) and half a cup of low-sodium chicken broth, making sure there are no lumps. Bring this delightful concoction to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.

Return Chicken to Skillet and Simmer

Once the sauce is at a simmer, return the browned chicken to the skillet. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for about 3 to 4 minutes until cooked through and the sauce thickens beautifully, coating the back of a spoon. Stir in the fresh lemon juice for that signature zing!

Garnish and Serve

To finish off your creamy lemon garlic skillet chicken, garnish the dish with chopped fresh parsley and thin lemon slices. This not only adds a fresh pop of color but enhances the colorful presentation that will impress anyone at your dinner table. Serve immediately and enjoy this comforting, flavorful meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your household!

Cooking doesn’t have to be stressful; embrace the joy of creating something delicious from scratch! If you want some ideas for sides, check out our guide on perfect side dishes for chicken. Happy cooking!

Variations on Creamy Lemon Garlic Skillet Chicken

Add Vegetables for a One-Pan Meal

To make your creamy lemon garlic skillet chicken a complete meal, toss in your favorite vegetables! Baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus not only brighten the plate but also infused the dish with added nutrients. Cook them in the skillet after your chicken is done, letting them soak up those delightful lemony garlic flavors. You’ll have a delicious, vibrant dish as easy as one, two, three!

Make It Spicy with Red Pepper Flakes

If you’re a fan of a little kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while the sauce simmers. This not only elevates the creamy lemon garlic skillet chicken but also adds depth to the dish with every flavorful bite. Spiciness is a personal touch; adjust the amount based on your preference, and invite your friends to join in on the excitement!

For more ideas on perfect pairings, check out This Nutrition Resource for inspiration!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Creamy Lemon Garlic Skillet Chicken

When making your creamy lemon garlic skillet chicken, focus on prepping your chicken well. Pounding the breasts to an even thickness not only ensures they cook uniformly but keeps them juicy! For perfect seasoning, don’t shy away from salting and peppering generously.

Consider using fresh lemon juice for a zesty punch—freshly squeezed is always better! To elevate the dish, you might also add some spinach or sun-dried tomatoes during the simmering step.

And if you end up with leftovers, this dish reheats nicely; just add a splash of chicken broth when warming for creaminess! For more cooking insights, check out Serious Eats or The Kitchn.

Serving Suggestions for Creamy Lemon Garlic Skillet Chicken

When it comes to enjoying your creamy lemon garlic skillet chicken, presenting it in a delightful way can elevate your meal. Here are some tasty ideas to enhance your dining experience:

Pair it with Carbs: Serve on a bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up every drop of the luscious sauce. Quinoa or buttery noodles are excellent alternatives!
Fresh Vegetables: Balance the richness with a side of steamed green beans, sautéed asparagus, or a vibrant mixed salad dressed with a light vinaigrette.
Excellent Additions: For a touch of decadence, consider topping your chicken with crispy Turkey Bacon or serving alongside slices of Chicken Ham.
Citrusy Zest: A simple lemon wedge can brighten the dish even more—squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice over the top right before digging in.

These simple and delightful ideas will surely impress your guests and make dinner all the more enjoyable! If you're looking for more side dish inspiration, check out Cooking Light.

Time breakdown for Creamy Lemon Garlic Skillet Chicken

Preparation time

Getting ready to cook this delightful dish only takes about 10 minutes. This includes gathering your ingredients, seasoning the chicken, and chopping the shallot and garlic—easy peasy!

Cooking time

The cooking process is just as quick, taking roughly 20 minutes to achieve that perfect balance of creamy, savory goodness. You'll have beautifully seared chicken and a luscious sauce in no time.

Total time

From start to finish, your Creamy Lemon Garlic Skillet Chicken will be ready in about 30 minutes! Perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

If you're looking for other quick dinner ideas, consider checking out this recipe for quick lemon chicken that’s just as flavorful. And if you'd like to dive deeper into cooking techniques, websites like America's Test Kitchen offer fantastic resources!

Nutritional Facts for Creamy Lemon Garlic Skillet Chicken

When it comes to delicious meals, it’s always great to know what you’re putting on your plate! Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional facts for Creamy Lemon Garlic Skillet Chicken to help you make informed choices.

Calories

In each serving, this dish contains approximately 400 calories, making it a satisfying option without overwhelming your daily intake.

Protein

With about 35 grams of protein per serving, this skillet chicken is a fantastic way to fuel your body, especially after a busy day.

Sodium

The dish clocks in at around 750 milligrams of sodium, which is relatively moderate. However, you can adjust the seasoning to align with your personal dietary needs.

By enjoying this Creamy Lemon Garlic Skillet Chicken, you can indulge in flavor while staying mindful of your nutritional goals. For more details on healthy eating, consider checking out sources like the USDA FoodData Central or MyPlate.

FAQs about Creamy Lemon Garlic Skillet Chicken

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! Creamy lemon garlic skillet chicken is perfect for meal prep. You can cook the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then refrigerate them for up to three days. Just store the chicken and sauce separately to maintain flavor and texture. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply reheat in a pan over low heat until warmed through.

What sides pair well with the chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with:

Steamed asparagus for a fresh crunch.
Garlic mashed potatoes to soak up the creamy sauce.
Couscous or rice for a base that enhances the lemony flavors.

You can find more side ideas in our complete guide to chicken pairings.

How can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to help revive the sauce's creamy texture. Enjoy it again and savor those delightful lemony flavors!

Conclusion on Creamy Lemon Garlic Skillet Chicken

This Creamy Lemon Garlic Skillet Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience! With its bright, zesty flavor and creamy texture, it’s sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy dinner for two, this dish will elevate your culinary game. Happy cooking!