If you’re craving a dish that beautifully balances zesty brightness with comforting creaminess, this Creamy Lemon Chicken Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Juicy, tender chicken cutlets are bathed in a luscious lemon-infused cream sauce that is rich but refreshingly light, creating an irresistible flavor harmony. It’s truly a simple yet elegant meal perfect for weeknights or casual dinner parties, proving that comfort food can be both decadent and delightfully fresh.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role, making the dish flavorful and vibrant without any fuss. From the fresh lemon juice adding that essential tang to the heavy cream lending a velvety texture, these simple staples come together to create magic.

2 large chicken breasts: Choose fresh, plump breasts for juicy and tender cutlets after cooking.
Salt and pepper: Basic seasonings that highlight and enhance the overall flavor perfectly.
1 teaspoon Italian herb seasoning: Adds a fragrant herbal note that pairs beautifully with lemon.
½ cup all-purpose flour: For dredging the chicken, helping create a golden crust and thickening the sauce slightly.
Olive oil: Gives a nice sear to the chicken while keeping it moist and flavorful.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings aromatic warmth and depth to the creamy sauce.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness to the sauce and balances the lemon’s acidity.
½ cup chicken broth: Builds a savory base in the sauce, giving it complexity.
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, plus more to taste: The star ingredient that brightens the entire dish and adds irresistible zing.
1 cup heavy cream: Creates the signature luscious creaminess that defines this recipe.
Fresh chopped parsley for garnish: Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal flavor as a finishing touch.
Lemon slices for garnish: Makes the presentation vibrant and offers an extra citrus kick if desired.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Creamy Lemon Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Cutlets

Start by slicing each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create thinner cutlets. This helps them cook evenly and keeps the meat tender. To ensure uniform thickness, place the pieces between plastic wrap and gently pound them with a meat mallet. This little step makes a huge difference in texture and cooking time.

Step 2: Season and Dredge

Season your chicken cutlets generously on both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian herb seasoning. This spice blend adds an irresistible aromatic base. Next, coat each piece lightly with flour, shaking off any excess. The flour helps create a lovely golden crust and thickens the sauce later on.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Place the chicken cutlets in the hot oil and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through with an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. This careful sear locks in juices and flavor. Set the chicken aside once done.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Keep your pan as-is without wiping it clean. Melt butter, then add minced garlic and cook just until fragrant—this fragrant base is key. Pour in chicken broth and start with 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. Taste at this point and add more lemon juice if you want extra brightness. Let it gently simmer, then stir in the heavy cream with salt and pepper to harmonize the flavors and create that smooth, silky sauce.

Step 5: Simmer Chicken in Creamy Lemon Sauce

Return the chicken cutlets to the pan and bring everything back to a gentle simmer. Cook for another 4 to 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the chicken to soak up those vibrant lemony notes. This finishing touch makes the dish irresistibly rich and flavorful.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Before serving, garnish your Creamy Lemon Chicken Recipe with freshly chopped parsley and lemon slices for a beautiful presentation and a hint of fresh citrus aroma. Now it’s time to dig in and enjoy this dreamy, comforting meal!

How to Serve Creamy Lemon Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley adds a lovely green contrast and fresh herbal brightness that cuts through the richness. Thin lemon slices on the side invite everyone to add a splash of extra citrus if they so desire. These simple garnishes elevate both flavor and presentation effortlessly.

Side Dishes

This Creamy Lemon Chicken Recipe pairs exceptionally well with light, simple sides. Try fluffy white rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up every drop of that dreamy sauce. Steamed asparagus or roasted broccoli add a refreshing crunch and vibrant color, completing a gorgeous, balanced meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning dinner party touch, plate each cutlet with a delicate drizzle of the creamy lemon sauce, sprinkle parsley over the top, and arrange lemon slices artistically around the edge. Adding a sprig of fresh thyme or rosemary can enhance its visual appeal and subtle aroma. Presentation is half the fun when serving this luscious dish!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Creamy Lemon Chicken Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, giving you an easy, flavorful meal ready to enjoy again.

Freezing

While the dish is best fresh, you can freeze leftovers without the garnish. Use a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the delicious texture of the chicken and sauce.

Reheating

Gently reheat the chicken and sauce over medium-low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the sauce has thickened too much, stir in a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it back to the perfect creaminess. Avoid overheating to keep the chicken tender and sauce silky.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will give you a slightly richer flavor and even more tender texture. Just be sure to adjust cooking time accordingly since thighs might take a bit longer to cook through.

Is it necessary to dredge the chicken in flour?

Dredging in flour is a simple trick to help create a golden crust and thickens the sauce slightly as it simmers. You can skip it for a lighter option, but expect a less velvety sauce and less crust on the chicken.

Can I substitute heavy cream for a lighter alternative?

You can try using half-and-half or whole milk to lighten the sauce, but it won’t be quite as rich or creamy. Adding a bit more flour or cornstarch will help maintain thickness if you choose a lighter dairy option.

How can I make the sauce more lemony?

Fresh lemon juice is key, so feel free to add more to taste during the sauce-making process. A little lemon zest grated into the sauce also boosts lemon flavor without making it too tart.

What are the best side dishes for this Creamy Lemon Chicken Recipe?

Simple starches like rice or mashed potatoes pair beautifully, while light green veggies such as roasted broccoli, asparagus, or green beans add freshness and crunch to balance the creamy sauce.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting about a dish that feels both indulgent and fresh, and this Creamy Lemon Chicken Recipe hits that mark perfectly. It’s simple enough for an easy weeknight meal but impressive enough to share with guests. I can’t wait for you to try it and savor every bite of that tangy, creamy goodness with tender chicken. Happy cooking and even happier eating!