There is something truly irresistible about this Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe that makes it a go-to favorite for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Juicy, perfectly seasoned chicken cutlets are cooked to golden perfection and then bathed in a luxuriously creamy sauce brightened with fresh lemon and fragrant garlic. Each bite offers a brilliant balance of richness and tang, with savory herbs weaving through the tender meat and silky sauce, delivering comfort and freshness simultaneously. If you’re looking for a recipe that feels elegant yet comes together quickly, this Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays an essential role, contributing vibrant flavors, luscious creaminess, or a burst of freshness that brings the dish to life. Here’s what you’ll gather before you embark on this flavor-packed journey:
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts or cutlets: Using thin cutlets ensures quick and even cooking for tender results.
- Kosher salt: Enhances natural flavors and helps season the chicken perfectly.
- Freshly ground black pepper: Adds just the right touch of warmth and subtle spice.
- Garlic powder: Boosts the garlicky profile even before fresh garlic hits the pan.
- Onion powder: Provides a subtle savory depth without overpowering the dish.
- Dried oregano: Offers a gentle herbal note that complements lemon and garlic flawlessly.
- Olive oil: For cooking the chicken to a gorgeous golden crust with rich flavor.
- Butter: Creates a silky base to carry the sauce’s vibrant garlic and lemon flavors.
- Garlic cloves, minced: The star aromatic introducing a bright and comforting punch.
- Heavy cream: Envelops the dish with creamy indulgence and smooth texture.
- Milk: Lightens the sauce just enough without losing richness.
- Lemon zest: Packs a fragrant citrus burst that elevates every bite.
- Fresh lemon juice: Brightens and balances the creaminess with fresh acidity.
- Lemon slices (optional): Perfect for garnish, adding a pop of color and hint of zest.
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped: Adds a fresh, herbal finish that looks as lovely as it tastes.
How to Make Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken dry to ensure it sears beautifully. If needed, slice the breasts horizontally to form thin cutlets—this step guarantees juicy, fast-cooking pieces. Then season generously with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried oregano. This seasoning blend builds the foundation for the complex but approachable flavors that make this Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe stand out.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Place the chicken cutlets in the pan and cook undisturbed for 3 to 5 minutes per side. This allows a golden-brown crust to develop, locking in juices and flavor. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F or the chicken is no longer pink in the center. Then transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set it aside as the sauce begins.
Step 3: Create the Luscious Lemon Garlic Sauce
Lower the heat to medium-low and melt butter in the same skillet, savoring those delicious browned bits left behind. Add the minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant and lightly golden—no more than a minute to avoid bitterness. Pour in heavy cream and milk, followed by lemon zest and fresh lemon juice. Stir gently and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly while soaking up all those rich, garlicky flavors and tangy zest from the lemon. Don’t forget to scrape the pan to unlock every bit of flavorful goodness.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken in the Creamy Sauce
Return the chicken cutlets to the skillet and turn them in the sauce, ensuring each piece is luxuriously coated. Warm the chicken through by cooking it in the sauce for about a minute on each side. Once everything is heated and infused with flavor, you’re ready to plate this comforting, vibrant dish. Spoon extra sauce over the top, then prepare for the delicious finale.
How to Serve Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley sprinkled on top injects a burst of color and herbaceous brightness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. A few thin lemon slices placed artfully on the plate not only add visual appeal but also allow guests to squeeze extra lemon if desired, enhancing the freshness of this Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs perfectly with simple yet flavorful sides. Steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a crisp mixed greens salad complement the richness without overwhelming it. If you crave comfort, creamy mashed potatoes or buttery rice pilaf absorb the luscious sauce, making every bite even more heavenly.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant touch, serve the chicken atop a bed of spiralized zucchini or sautéed noodles tossed lightly with olive oil and herbs. Alternatively, plating the chicken alongside bright roasted vegetables creates a vibrant, restaurant-worthy presentation that impresses every time. The versatility of this Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe means you can make the presentation match your mood and occasion with ease.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Lemon Garlic Chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a convenient option for next-day lunches or quick dinners that still feel special.
Freezing
This dish freezes nicely if you want to save some for later. Freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months. For best texture, freeze the chicken and sauce together but consider reheating gently to keep the cream from separating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers over low heat in a skillet or saucepan to maintain silky sauce consistency. Stir frequently and add a splash of milk if the sauce feels too thick. Avoid microwaving at high power to preserve the tender texture of the chicken and prevent sauce curdling.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless skinless chicken thighs add a bit more richness and stay juicy. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a few minutes longer to cook through.
Is it necessary to use heavy cream in the sauce?
Heavy cream gives the sauce its signature richness and silky texture, but you can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, though the sauce will be less thick and creamy.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes, this Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free seasonings and double-check ingredient labels. It’s a great option for those avoiding gluten.
How can I make the lemon flavor more intense?
Adding extra lemon zest or a bit more fresh lemon juice to the sauce will amplify the lemon brightness. Just balance it carefully so it complements, rather than overpowers, the creamy garlicky sauce.
What should I serve with Lemon Garlic Chicken for a complete meal?
Pair the dish with roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or garlic mashed potatoes. Light, simple sides help highlight the rich, flavorful sauce and tender chicken perfectly.
Final Thoughts
I can’t encourage you enough to try this Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe—it’s truly one of those dishes that feels both special and effortless, with flavors that sing in every bite. Once you make it, it will quickly become a cherished staple in your kitchen, ready whenever you want a meal that’s comforting, fresh, and downright delicious. So grab your skillet and lemon, and get cooking. You’re in for a wonderful treat!
Print
Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A flavorful Lemon Garlic Chicken recipe featuring tender chicken cutlets cooked in a creamy lemon-garlic sauce. This quick and easy dish combines the zest of fresh lemon with aromatic garlic and herbs, perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner served in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts or 4 cutlets (about 1 pound, organic if possible)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
Sauce and Garnish
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup milk
- Zest of 1/2 lemon
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Lemon slices, for garnish (optional)
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare and Season Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel. If using full breasts, slice them in half horizontally to make 4 thin cutlets. If you already have cutlets, skip slicing. Season both sides of the chicken with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried oregano thoroughly to ensure flavor.
- Cook Chicken Cutlets: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the chicken cutlets in the skillet and cook them for 3 to 5 minutes per side until they are browned and fully cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F or the chicken should be opaque with no pink inside. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Make Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce: Lower the heat to medium-low and add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute until lightly browned and fragrant. Stir in heavy cream, milk, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently and scraping up any brown bits from the pan. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken cutlets back into the skillet. Turn each piece to coat well in the sauce and warm through for about 1 minute per side. This allows the chicken to soak up the creamy lemon garlic sauce for maximum flavor.
- Serve: Plate the chicken cutlets and spoon extra sauce over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and lemon slices if desired. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest flavor.
- For a lighter alternative, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or use full milk only, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Chicken cutlets can be purchased pre-sliced to save prep time.
- Garnishing with fresh parsley adds a pop of color and fresh herb flavor.
