Description
This Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken thighs marinated in a zesty lemon garlic mixture, then pan-seared and simmered in a luxurious cream sauce. Ready in just 35 minutes, it offers a perfect balance of bright citrus flavors with rich, savory notes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner that's both comforting and elegant.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs (about 4-5 pieces)
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth (low or no sodium preferred)
- 3 Tablespoons olive oil
- 1 Tablespoon Dijon mustard
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 Tablespoon lemon zest (from one lemon)
- 2-3 Tablespoons lemon juice (from one lemon)
Sauce and Garnish
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 Tablespoon chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large gallon-sized bag or bowl, combine the chicken thighs, chicken broth, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, minced garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Seal the bag and gently shake to coat the chicken evenly. Refrigerate and let the chicken marinate for at least 20 minutes. Do not discard the marinade as it will be used later for the sauce.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken thighs to the skillet and cook for 5 to 6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest.
- Prepare the Sauce: Pour the reserved marinade into the same skillet and bring to a boil. Let it boil for a few minutes, then reduce the heat to medium and simmer for 5 to 10 minutes until the liquid has reduced by half. This concentrates the flavors and ensures the marinade is safe to eat.
- Add Cream to Sauce: Lower the heat to medium-low and whisk in the heavy cream, stirring well to combine and create a velvety sauce.
- Reheat Chicken: Return the cooked chicken thighs to the skillet with the sauce. Cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the chicken to heat through and absorb some of the creamy sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the chicken and garnish with fresh lemon slices if desired. Serve immediately for a delightful, flavorful meal.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken enhances flavor and tenderness; keeping the marinade helps create the sauce.
- Ensure the marinade is brought to a full boil before simmering to eliminate any raw meat bacteria.
- You can adjust the amount of lemon juice according to your taste preference for more or less tanginess.
- Using chicken thighs results in juicier and more flavorful meat compared to chicken breasts.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
