Irresistible Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken Recipe

The moment you take a whiff of this Creamy chicken dish is not just a meal; it’s a flavor-packed adventure that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or an impromptu gathering with friends, this recipe promises to deliver a burst of brightness and warmth that will make your taste buds sing.

I still remember the first time I whipped up this delightful dish. My friends were over for a Netflix marathon, and I thought, why not treat them to something special? The laughter, the clinking of glasses, and the rich aroma wafting through my kitchen set the stage for an unforgettable night. Everyone dug in and raved about how they could practically taste sunshine in every bite. It was one of those moments where food brought us together, creating memories that would linger long after the plates were cleared.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
  • The flavor profile is bright and tangy with a rich creaminess that complements the chicken perfectly
  • Visually stunning with its golden-brown crust and vibrant sauce, it pleases both the eyes and the palate
  • Versatile enough to pair with rice, pasta, or veggies, this dish fits seamlessly into any meal plan

I once made this dish for my family reunion, and everyone went back for seconds—definitely a crowd-pleaser!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but adjust depending on how many people you’re feeding.
  • Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for maximum flavor; don’t skimp on this essential ingredient. For more inspiration, check out this Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps recipe.
  • Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed juice adds brightness; bottled juice just won’t cut it.
  • Heavy Cream: This is what makes the sauce luxuriously creamy; low-fat alternatives won’t achieve the same richness.
  • Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of zest enhances that citrusy explosion; always zest before juicing!
  • Black Pepper: Freshly cracked pepper gives an aromatic kick to balance the creaminess.
  • Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for sautéing; it adds great flavor.
  • Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds color and freshness as a garnish—don’t skip this step!

For the Sauce:

  • Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth helps control salt levels while adding depth to your sauce.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts beautifully into the sauce; avoid pre-grated varieties if possible.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients and chop your garlic and parsley. Have everything ready so you can cook without interruptions.

Heat Up Your Skillet: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil until it shimmers. This creates a non-stick surface for cooking our chicken beautifully.

Sauté The Chicken: Season each breast with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Scalloped sweet potatoes side Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through—just wait for that sizzle!

Add Garlic And Lemon: Toss in minced garlic during the last minute of cooking until fragrant. Pour in lemon juice and zest—you’ll love how fresh it smells!

Create The Creamy Sauce: Lower heat slightly before adding heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir well while scraping up any brown bits—these add incredible flavor!

Add Cheese And Simmer: Gradually mix in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Let simmer for 3-4 minutes until thickened slightly; trust me—it’s worth every second!

Enjoy this Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken over rice or pasta or even with some roasted vegetables on the side! Your taste buds will thank you as they dance their happy dance! Honey pepper chicken pasta. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Baked Brussels Sprouts recipe.

You Must Know

  • This creamy lemon pepper skillet chicken is not just delicious; it’s an easy weeknight savior
  • The tangy aroma fills the kitchen, making your mouth water as it cooks
  • With its rich sauce and tender chicken, it’s sure to impress anyone at your dinner table

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken in a hot skillet, which locks in moisture and flavor. Then create your creamy sauce while the chicken simmers away for perfect results.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize this dish! Swap in your favorite herbs, add sautéed mushrooms, or toss in some spinach for extra nutrients and flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to maintain the creamy texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For a delightful twist, try using fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme
  • Avoid overcooking the chicken; it should be juicy
  • Pair this dish with rice or pasta for a complete meal that everyone will love

Cooking this creamy lemon pepper skillet chicken always reminds me of my friend Sarah’s dinner party last summer. Garlic butter chicken bites Everyone was blown away by how quickly I whipped it up—just like magic!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use boneless skinless thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless thighs can add more flavor and remain juicy throughout cooking.

What can I serve with creamy lemon pepper skillet chicken?

Serve it over rice, pasta, or with a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend or cornstarch for thickening.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken


  • Author: platesdaily
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a zesty, creamy sauce, making it perfect for any occasion. This recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor that will have your taste buds dancing. Enjoy it over rice or pasta for a comforting meal that brings sunshine into your kitchen.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tsp lemon zest
  • 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sauté for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
  3. Add minced garlic during the last minute of cooking until fragrant. Pour in lemon juice and zest.
  4. Reduce heat slightly, stir in heavy cream and chicken broth while scraping up any brown bits from the pan.
  5. Gradually mix in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Let simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce (200g)
  • Calories: 520
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 620mg
  • Fat: 34g
  • Saturated Fat: 19g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 47g
  • Cholesterol: 165mg

Keywords: For added flavor, feel free to incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. To make this dish gluten-free, use cornstarch as a thickener instead of regular flour.

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating