If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bright flavors and comforting creaminess, then you’re going to love this Lemon Pepper Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe. The zesty punch of lemon pepper seasoning perfectly complements the tender, juicy chicken, all enveloped in a luscious garlic cream sauce that feels indulgent but comes together with such ease. It’s a weeknight winner that somehow feels special enough for guests, too, proving that simple ingredients can make an exceptional dish that’s full of personality and warmth.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this recipe, and the best part is how straightforward and pantry-friendly they are. Each component plays a vital role, from the chicken’s protein-packed foundation to the creamy sauce that brings everything together with a silky finish and a pop of brightness from the lemon pepper.
- Chicken breasts: Using thinner pieces helps them cook evenly and stay juicy. Cutting them lengthwise is a game-changer!
- Salt: Enhances the natural flavors and balances the seasoning—remember to add carefully since lemon pepper blends can be salty.
- Olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity flavor and helps give the chicken a beautiful, golden sear.
- Butter: Used twice—first for searing chicken, then for creating the creamy sauce base, adding richness and depth.
- Garlic: Minced fresh garlic infuses the sauce with an irresistible aroma and savory zing.
- Flour: This helps thicken the sauce, giving it that smooth, velvety texture that clings perfectly to the chicken.
- Chicken broth: Adds savory backbone and prevents the sauce from being overly heavy.
- Heavy cream: Brings luscious creaminess that balances the lemon pepper’s brightness without overpowering it.
- Lemon pepper seasoning: The star seasoning that delivers tangy, peppery notes, making this dish pop with flavor!
How to Make Lemon Pepper Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by slicing the chicken breasts in half lengthwise so you end up with four thinner, more manageable pieces. This ensures they cook quickly and evenly while staying juicy. Lightly sprinkle salt over the chicken, taking care not to overdo it since your lemon pepper seasoning might already have salt in it.
Step 2: Heat the Pan and Add Fats
Place a skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil along with one tablespoon of butter. Let the pan get hot enough—that slight shimmer on the oil is your hint—so the chicken will sear beautifully and develop a gorgeous golden crust.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Lay the chicken pieces gently in the skillet, making sure they’re not crowded. Sear each side for about 4 to 5 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside, leaving those flavorful browned bits in the pan.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
Add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the pan. When melted, toss in the minced garlic, stirring for just a few seconds before sprinkling the flour over it. Cook this mixture for about 30 seconds to a minute, stirring constantly to cook off the raw flour taste and create the roux base for your sauce.
Step 5: Whisk in Liquids and Seasonings
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then sprinkle the lemon pepper seasoning into the skillet. Whisk everything together energetically to dissolve the flour lumps and smoothly combine the flavors, which will come together in a velvety sauce.
Step 6: Finish Cooking the Chicken in the Sauce
Return the chicken and any juices that collected on the plate back into the skillet. Simmer everything carefully for about 4 to 5 more minutes, allowing the chicken to finish cooking and the sauce to thicken slightly. If the sauce starts bubbling too rapidly, reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Taste and adjust the seasoning with extra salt or pepper if necessary, then get ready to serve.
How to Serve Lemon Pepper Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives add a beautiful green contrast and a pop of freshness that complements the creamy sauce perfectly. A little lemon zest sprinkled on top can amplify the citrus sparkle in every bite, turning your plate into a feast for the eyes and palate.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides that soak up the luscious sauce. Garlic mashed potatoes, steamed asparagus, or a vibrant green salad provide balance and texture without competing with the main event. Rice or warm crusty bread are also delighted companions to mop up every last bit of that creamy garlic goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant touch, serve the chicken sliced over a bed of creamy polenta or nestled beside roasted vegetables. Drizzle extra sauce artistically around the plate and garnish with thin lemon slices for that restaurant-quality wow factor. This Lemon Pepper Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe is versatile enough to adapt to casual family dinners or special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken maintains its tenderness, and the sauce keeps its rich flavor for up to 3 days, making for a quick and satisfying meal the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce together by letting it cool completely, then transferring it into a freezer-safe container. It’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently over low heat in a covered pan, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from curdling or sticking. Alternatively, microwave it in short bursts on medium power, stirring between intervals until warmed through. This way, your Lemon Pepper Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe stays creamy and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for chicken breasts cut lengthwise, boneless chicken thighs work beautifully too and add a bit more juiciness. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re cooked through.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk combined with a bit of flour can be a substitute, though the sauce will be less rich and creamy. Coconut cream can work for a dairy-free twist but changes the flavor profile.
Is lemon pepper seasoning spicy?
Lemon pepper seasoning usually provides a bright citrusy flavor with a mild peppery kick—nothing too spicy. However, spice levels can vary by brand, so taste yours beforehand to adjust seasoning accordingly.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
You can make the creamy garlic sauce earlier and reheat it gently when ready to add the cooked chicken. Just keep the sauce stored separately in the fridge to preserve its texture before combining.
What sides go best with this dish?
Classic pairings include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad. These sides help balance the richness of the sauce and complement the fresh lemon pepper flavor perfectly.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the satisfying combination of zesty lemon pepper and dreamy garlic cream sauce that this Lemon Pepper Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe delivers. It’s an approachable, flavorful, and comforting dish that’s sure to become a regular in your cooking rotation. I can’t wait for you to try it and taste the magic for yourself!
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Lemon Pepper Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A creamy and zesty Lemon Pepper Chicken recipe that features tender pan-seared chicken breasts cooked in a luscious lemon pepper cream sauce. Quick to prepare and perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 chicken breasts, cut in half lengthwise (4 thinner pieces)
- Salt, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter, divided
Sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 2/3 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 1/2 tablespoon lemon pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create 4 thinner pieces. Sprinkle them lightly with salt, keeping in mind some lemon pepper blends contain salt.
- Heat the skillet: Add olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter to a skillet over medium-high heat. Allow the pan to heat up for a few minutes to ensure a good sear.
- Sear the chicken: Place the chicken pieces in the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Then, transfer the chicken to a plate.
- Start the sauce base: Add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the skillet and let it melt. Add the minced garlic and sprinkle in the flour. Cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute while stirring occasionally to form a roux.
- Add liquids and seasoning: Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and sprinkle the lemon pepper into the skillet. Whisk continuously for about a minute until the flour dissolves and the sauce starts to thicken.
- Finish cooking the chicken: Return the chicken pieces along with any juices from the plate into the skillet. Let everything simmer gently for another 4-5 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the sauce thickens to your liking. Adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper if necessary. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Ensure chicken is cooked through by checking for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Do not over-salt early on since lemon pepper blends can contain salt.
- Simmer the sauce gently to avoid curdling the cream.
- Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a lower-fat cream alternative.
