Introduction to Easy Creamy Lemon Garlic Skillet Chicken
When you're pressed for time but craving something rich and satisfying, homemade skillet chicken can be a fantastic solution. Our Easy Creamy Lemon Garlic Skillet Chicken recipe brings you comfort food at its best, combining tender chicken breasts with a luscious, creamy sauce that's bursting with flavor. Trust me, once you make this dish, it'll quickly become a weeknight staple!
Why you’ll love homemade skillet chicken
There’s something incredibly satisfying about preparing a home-cooked meal that rivals your favorite restaurant dish. Not only is this recipe straightforward, but it also allows for flexibility—swap in seasonal vegetables or use a different protein if you’d like. Skillet chicken can be ready in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy young professionals balancing work and life.
The zesty lemon and savory garlic elevate any meal, while the creamy texture ensures a comforting bite every time. Plus, with all ingredients easily accessible at your local grocery store, you’re just a few steps away from creating a delicious dish that everyone at your dinner table will love.
Feeling inspired? Dive into the recipe below and let the easy creamy lemon garlic skillet chicken transform your next dinner! Looking for more versatile chicken recipes? Check out these 10 Quick Chicken Recipes.
Ingredients for Easy Creamy Lemon Garlic Skillet Chicken
When whipping up this easy creamy lemon garlic skillet chicken, the ingredients you choose will make all the difference. Let’s break it down:
Essential ingredients for a creamy sauce
- Unsalted butter: This is key for that rich and creamy texture.
- All-purpose flour: Using a bit of flour helps thicken the sauce, ensuring it clings beautifully to your chicken.
- Half-and-half or whole milk: Either gives the sauce a luxurious consistency, while low-sodium chicken broth adds depth of flavor.
- Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the dish, cutting through the creaminess and adding that signature zing.
Fresh herbs and spices to elevate the dish
- Garlic: The more, the merrier! Freshly minced garlic in this dish offers an aromatic layer that enhances every bite.
- Shallot: A touch of finely chopped shallot provides sweetness and complexity.
- Chopped fresh parsley: Adding this at the end not only garnishes but also infuses a burst of freshness.
For even more flavor, consider experimenting with seasonings like thyme or rosemary. These simple ingredients combined create a savory, mouthwatering dish that’s sure to impress at your next dinner!
Step-by-Step Preparation of Easy Creamy Lemon Garlic Skillet Chicken
Creating an easy creamy lemon garlic skillet chicken dish is a delightful culinary experience that elevates weeknight dinners. Here’s a comprehensive guide to whip this up in your own kitchen.
Prep the chicken breasts
Start by bringing your chicken breasts to room temperature. This not only helps in even cooking but also ensures a juicy finish. Using paper towels, thoroughly dry each breast, as excess moisture can prevent a nice sear. Generously season both sides with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. This simple seasoning builds an excellent foundation of flavor. If you want to go the extra mile, consider marinating the chicken in some lemon juice and herbs for a couple of hours prior to cooking – the citrus will add a wonderful zing!
Searing the chicken to perfection
Next, it’s all about that golden crust. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a 10-inch or larger skillet over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the pan. You might need to work in batches to avoid overcrowding. Let them sear undisturbed for about 6 to 7 minutes until they’re beautifully browned. One of the beauties of cooking is patience; resist the urge to flip them too early! Once flipped, allow the opposite side to sear for another 6 to 7 minutes. Once perfectly golden, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
Creating the creamy lemon garlic sauce
With the chicken resting, it’s time to create the luscious sauce. Lower the heat to medium and melt three tablespoons of unsalted butter in the same skillet. As the butter melts, add in your finely chopped shallot and minced garlic, stirring occasionally for about a minute until they soften and become aromatic. Sprinkle in the flour to absorb the butter, stirring continuously for another minute. This step helps thicken your sauce, giving it that creamy mouthfeel. Gradually whisk in one cup of half-and-half (or whole milk) and half a cup of low-sodium chicken broth, scraping up any delightful browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to let it simmer.
Combining chicken and sauce for a delicious finish
Return the beautifully seared chicken to the skillet. Allow it to simmer in the rich lemon garlic sauce for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Don't forget to stir in the fresh lemon juice for that zesty brightness. This is a crucial step, as lemon not only adds flavor but also balances the creaminess beautifully.
Presenting your skillet dish beautifully
To serve, plate the chicken and generously spoon the decadent sauce over the top. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and thinly sliced lemon for an inviting presentation. This vibrant touch not only adds color but also hints at the delicious tartness that awaits. Pair this delightful dish with a side of roasted vegetables or over a bed of fluffy rice for a complete meal.
For more ways to perfect your skillet mastery, check out Serious Eats. You're going to love this easy creamy lemon garlic skillet chicken!
Variations on Easy Creamy Lemon Garlic Skillet Chicken
Lemon Garlic Chicken with Spinach
For a vibrant twist on the classic easy creamy lemon garlic skillet chicken, add a couple of handfuls of fresh spinach to the sauce just before serving. The spinach wilts beautifully, adding both color and a nutritional boost to your dish. Plus, the earthy flavor complements the lemony goodness perfectly. You might even find that it elevates your meal, making it feel a bit more gourmet without sacrificing simplicity.
Lemon Garlic Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Another fantastic variation is to include sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of sweetness and richness. Simply toss in chopped sun-dried tomatoes along with the garlic in step three. They soak up the creamy sauce, adding a delightful tangy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the zesty lemon. This easy adaptation can transform easy creamy lemon garlic skillet chicken into a comforting dish that your friends and family will crave.
For more creative insights, you can explore these delicious chicken variations that will keep your meals feeling fresh and exciting.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Easy Creamy Lemon Garlic Skillet Chicken
Importance of Drying the Chicken
Thoroughly drying the chicken is a must. This not only helps achieve that beautiful sear but also prevents the chicken from steaming during cooking. The result? A juicy, flavorful bite in your easy creamy lemon garlic skillet chicken. Using paper towels to pat the chicken dry will enhance that crispy skin and allow for better seasoning adhesion.
Tips for Ensuring a Silky Sauce
To whip up a silky sauce, keep these points in mind:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shallots and garlic really elevate your dish. The aroma? Irresistible!
- Stir Well: When adding the flour, stir to avoid any lumps in the sauce. No one wants a clumpy coating!
- Temperature Matters: Don't rush the simmer. A lower temperature allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring a creamy texture.
For more sauce tips, check out this helpful guide on creating rich sauces. Enjoy cooking!
Serving Suggestions for Easy Creamy Lemon Garlic Skillet Chicken
Pairing Sides for a Complete Meal
To complement your easy creamy lemon garlic skillet chicken, consider serving it with light and flavorful sides. Fresh steamed asparagus or roasted broccoli adds vibrant color and a nutritious boost. For a hearty touch, fluffy mashed potatoes or creamy risotto can soak up that delicious lemon garlic sauce perfectly. A side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a bright vinaigrette will enhance your meal’s freshness.
Creative Plating Ideas for Entertaining
When entertaining, presentation matters! Serve your easy creamy lemon garlic skillet chicken on a large platter garnished with fresh parsley and lemon slices. This elevates the dish's visual appeal. You can also plate individual servings in shallow bowls with a drizzle of sauce, accompanied by your choice of sides for an elegant touch. A sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs can make a lovely final impression. For a fun twist, consider adding colorful edible flowers for a pop of color!
By enhancing your meal with these thoughtful suggestions, your dining experience will be unforgettable. Need more inspiration? Check out this guide to expert plating.
Time Breakdown for Easy Creamy Lemon Garlic Skillet Chicken
Preparation time
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare. That’s just enough time to gather your ingredients and season the chicken breasts to perfection.
Cooking time
Get ready to cook for approximately 20 minutes. This includes the sizzling sear and the creamy sauce that brings all the flavors together.
Total time
In just 30 minutes, you can have a delicious, hearty meal on the table. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
With this quick time breakdown, your easy creamy lemon garlic skillet chicken will have you savoring every bite while still keeping your evening stress-free! If you're curious about transforming your cooking game, check out more tips here.
Nutritional Facts for Easy Creamy Lemon Garlic Skillet Chicken
If you're curious about the nutrition behind this delectable easy creamy lemon garlic skillet chicken, here’s a quick breakdown to help you stay informed:
Calories
This creamy dish comes in at approximately 490 calories per serving, making it a hearty yet manageable meal option.
Protein
Packed with protein, each serving provides around 37 grams, perfect for fueling your day and keeping you satisfied!
Sodium
With about 670 milligrams of sodium per serving, it’s advisable to adjust seasoning and choose low-sodium broth to tailor this dish to your health needs.
Want to dive deeper into how your meals can affect your diet? Check out Nutrition.gov for insightful information on balanced eating!
FAQs about Easy Creamy Lemon Garlic Skillet Chicken
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work beautifully in this recipe, offering a richer flavor and tender meat. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless to keep the cooking time similar to that of chicken breasts. You might even consider marinating them in a bit of lemon juice beforehand for an extra zing!
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Making this easy creamy lemon garlic skillet chicken gluten-free is simple! Swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend, or even cornstarch, which will help thicken the sauce without affecting the flavor. Just be sure to use gluten-free chicken broth, too!
What can I serve with leftover chicken?
Leftover chicken is super versatile! Try it on a fresh salad, in a wrap with your favorite veggies, or mixed into pasta for a quick meal. Consider pairing it with rice or quinoa to soak up that delicious creamy sauce—it’s ultimately delicious no matter how you serve it!
For more tips on versatile chicken recipes, check out The Kitchn’s guide on meal prep.
Conclusion on Easy Creamy Lemon Garlic Skillet Chicken
In wrapping up this delightful journey, easy creamy lemon garlic skillet chicken is not just a dish; it's a showstopper! With its creamy texture and zesty flavor, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing friends. Try it tonight and savor the deliciousness. You won’t regret it!
Easy, Creamy Lemon Garlic Skillet Chicken
Equipment
- 10-inch skillet
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts about 2 pounds total, pounded to ½-inch thickness
- 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt plus more for seasoning
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground, plus more for seasoning
Cooking Ingredients
- 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
- 0.5 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 medium lemon juice of (about 3 tablespoons)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley leaves chopped
- 1 small lemon thinly sliced
Instructions
Cooking Steps
- Thoroughly dry the chicken with paper towels. Generously season all over with salt and pepper.
- Heat the oil in a 10-inch or larger skillet over medium-high until shimmering. Working in batches if needed, add the chicken and sear until deeply browned on the bottom, 6 to 7 minutes. Flip with tongs and sear the other side until browned, 6 to 7 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a plate; set aside.
- Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. When melted, add the shallot, garlic, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until just starting to soften, about 1 minute. Add the flour, stir to evenly coat the shallots and garlic, and cook for 1 minute more.
- Stir in the half-and-half or milk and broth until no lumps from the flour remain, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer. Return the chicken to the pan and simmer until the sauce is thickened enough that it coats the back of a spoon and the chicken is cooked through, 3 to 4 minutes.
- Stir the lemon juice into the sauce. Garnish with the parsley and lemon slices and serve immediately.
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