Creamy Lemon Chicken with Herbs is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines the tanginess of fresh lemon with rich, velvety cream, all infused with aromatic herbs. This recipe delivers a beautifully balanced meal with tender chicken bathed in a luscious sauce. Perfect for an elegant dinner or a cozy meal at home, this dish pairs well with rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
For the Creamy Lemon Herb Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- ½ cup (120ml) chicken broth
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for depth of flavor)
- 1 tsp dried thyme or 1 tbsp fresh thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano or 1 tbsp fresh oregano
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for richness)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken breasts and sear for 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Making the Creamy Lemon Herb Sauce
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet (this enhances flavor).
- Add heavy cream, lemon zest, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes, then stir in Parmesan cheese to thicken it slightly.
Step 3: Bringing It All Together
- Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce.
- Reduce heat to low and let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 8-10 minutes, until fully cooked and tender.
- Stir in fresh parsley for a burst of brightness.
Step 4: Serving and Enjoying
- Plate the chicken with the creamy lemon herb sauce generously spooned over the top.
- Serve with pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables.
- Enjoy a restaurant-quality dish right at home!
Final Thoughts:
This Creamy Lemon Chicken with Herbs is a delightful combination of freshness, creaminess, and aromatic herbs. The balance of acidity and richness makes it a standout meal that can be paired with a variety of sides. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.
Would you like suggestions for side dishes or wine pairings? 😊