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Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe

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4 from 62 reviews

This creamy lemon garlic chicken recipe features tender, juicy boneless chicken thighs cooked to perfection and coated in a rich, flavorful lemon garlic sauce. The combination of garlic, butter, parmesan, and fresh lemon juice creates a luscious sauce complemented by aromatic Italian seasoning and a hint of spice from red pepper flakes. Finished with fresh chives and extra parmesan garnish, this dish is perfect for a comforting dinner that’s both elegant and satisfying.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 3 servings

Ingredients

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 3 boneless chicken thighs with skin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cornstarch, for coating
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes

Lemon Garlic Sauce

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 shallot, diced
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated

Garnish

  • Chives, chopped
  • Parmesan cheese, grated

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Lightly coat each thigh with cornstarch to help achieve a crispy skin when cooked.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil if needed, then place the chicken thighs skin-side down. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. Flip and cook the other side for an additional 5-7 minutes until cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter, minced garlic, and diced shallots. Sauté until fragrant and softened, about 2-3 minutes. Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
  4. Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and lemon juice, mixing well. Gradually add grated parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until melted and the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
  5. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken thighs to the skillet, spoon the sauce over the top, and let simmer for another 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors and heat through.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped chives and additional parmesan cheese over the chicken. Serve immediately, ideally with your choice of side such as steamed vegetables or rice.

Notes

  • Using boneless thighs with skin helps in achieving crispy texture and juicy meat inside.
  • Cornstarch coating aids in crisping the skin during pan-frying.
  • If you prefer less spice, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.
  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, though sauce will be less rich.
  • Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce for added indulgence.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Italian-American