Imagine a dish that combines the tender juiciness of perfectly cooked chicken with a luxuriously creamy sauce that dances with bright lemon and aromatic garlic. This Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken is the ultimate comfort meal that transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy dinner you can easily prepare at home. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive date night meal, this recipe balances rich, creamy textures with vibrant, zesty flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- US Measurements: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, salt and pepper, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 tablespoon butter, 3 garlic cloves (minced), 1 tablespoon lemon zest, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1/2 cup chicken broth, 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Metric Measurements: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, salt and pepper, 15ml olive oil, 15g butter, 3 garlic cloves (minced), 6g lemon zest, 15ml lemon juice, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 120ml chicken broth, 120ml heavy cream
For the Rice
- US Measurements: 1 cup white rice, 2 cups water or chicken broth, salt to taste
- Metric Measurements: 240g white rice, 480ml water or chicken broth, salt to taste
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
- Season the Chicken: Begin by generously seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This foundational step ensures maximum flavor.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The combination of oil and butter creates a perfect golden-brown crust.
- Cook to Perfection: Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until it turns a beautiful golden color and is cooked completely through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside, allowing it to rest while preparing the sauce.
Creating the Creamy Lemon Garlic Sauce
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds. This releases its aromatic oils and builds a flavor base.
- Build the Sauce: Add lemon zest, lemon juice, thyme, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to slightly thicken.
Preparing the Rice
- Cook Rice: While the sauce is simmering, prepare the rice according to package instructions using water or chicken broth. This adds an extra layer of flavor to the rice.
Final Assembly
- Combine and Serve: Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it generously with the creamy sauce. Serve the chicken over the prepared rice, spooning extra sauce on top to ensure maximum flavor in every bite.
Recipe Details
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 2
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 calories
Nutritional Information
Nutritional Highlights
- High-Protein: Chicken provides lean protein
- Rich in Flavor: Minimal added ingredients, maximum taste
- Balanced Meal: Combines protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats
Nutritional Breakdown (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 450-500
- Protein: 35-40g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Calcium: 10-15% daily value
Pro Tips for Perfect Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken
- Chicken Tip: Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness
- Sauce Consistency: If sauce is too thick, add a little more broth
- Flavor Enhancement: Fresh thyme can be used instead of dried for more intense flavor
Dietary Variations
- Low-Carb Option: Replace rice with cauliflower rice
- Dairy-Free Alternative: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream
- Gluten-Free: Ensure chicken broth is gluten-free certified
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Freezing: Not recommended due to cream-based sauce
- Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet to maintain sauce consistency
A restaurant-quality meal that’s simple enough for any home cook, this Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation!