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–+ servings
Close-up of bite-sized pieces of browned chicken coated in a tangy creamy lemon sauce, garnished with zest.

Tangy Creamy Lemon Chicken

This recipe provides a simple, zesty chicken dish suitable for small kitchens or dorm settings. It uses basic ingredients to create a flavorful meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Chicken and Seasoning
  • 1.5 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts Cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
Sauce
  • 0.5 cup chicken broth
  • 0.5 cup heavy cream Or half-and-half for a lighter sauce
  • 0.25 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
  3. Reduce the heat to medium. Pour the chicken broth into the skillet and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  4. Stir in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
  5. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce. Taste the sauce and add more salt or pepper if needed.
  6. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Toss to coat the chicken evenly with the creamy lemon sauce. Serve immediately over rice or pasta.

Nutrition

Calories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 45gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 550mgPotassium: 400mgSugar: 1gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

If you do not have fresh lemon juice, you can use bottled, but fresh provides better flavor. This dish pairs well with steamed broccoli or a simple side salad.

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