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Quick Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet

Four golden-brown chicken breasts simmering in a rich, creamy lemon sauce, topped with fresh parsley and grated cheese.

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Make this restaurant-quality creamy lemon chicken in just 30 minutes using one skillet. It features tender chicken breasts in a rich, zesty lemon cream sauce perfect for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

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  • 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 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for 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 same 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 thickened. Taste the sauce and add more salt or pepper if needed.
  8. Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy lemon sauce over them. Heat through for 1 to 2 minutes.
  9. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving immediately over pasta, rice, or vegetables.

Notes

  • For an extra bright flavor, use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled.
  • If you want a richer sauce, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though it may take slightly longer to thicken.
  • This dish pairs well with angel hair pasta or steamed asparagus for a complete meal.

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