If you’re looking for a dish that wraps comforting creaminess and bright lemony zest in one irresistible plate, this Chicken in Creamy Garlic Lemon Sauce Recipe is an absolute winner. It brings together tender chicken breasts seared to golden perfection and a luscious sauce that balances rich butter, sharp Parmesan, and fresh lemon juice with fragrant garlic and herbs. Every bite melts in your mouth while delivering layers of flavor that will have you coming back for seconds and thirds. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two parts: on the left, four golden brown cooked chicken pieces with pepper and herbs on a white plate, each piece having a slightly different shape and size, arranged close to each other. On the right, there is a white pan with brown cooked marks and some oil residue spread unevenly, showing the pan used to cook the chicken. Both the plate and pan are on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is key to mastering this Chicken in Creamy Garlic Lemon Sauce Recipe. Each component plays a vital role, whether it’s creating a silky sauce, adding a burst of freshness, or ensuring the chicken is juicy and flavorful. These ingredients are straightforward but pack a punch in taste and texture.

2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts: Perfectly lean and tender, ideal for slicing and quick cooking.
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that infuses the chicken with classic Mediterranean flavors.
Salt & pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance every other flavor in the dish.
¼ cup flour: Lightly coats the chicken for a delicate crust and helps thicken the sauce.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a fruity note and crispness when searing the chicken.
3 tablespoons butter: Creates a rich base for the garlic sauce and adds smoothness.
4 cloves garlic (minced): Provides bold, aromatic depth to the creamy sauce.
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami and a subtle tang to the sauce.
1 cup chicken broth: Forms the flavorful liquid component of the sauce.
2 tablespoons cornstarch (+ 2 tablespoons cold water, optional): Used for thickening the sauce to the perfect consistency.
¼ cup heavy cream: Gives the sauce a dreamy, velvety texture.
1/3 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated): Adds sharp, nutty flavor that enriches every spoonful.
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Brings a bright, zesty finish that balances the richness.
Fresh parsley (to garnish): Adds a fresh, green visual pop and light herbal note.
1 teaspoon each: dried parsley, mustard powder: Enhance the sauce’s complexity with warm, savory undertones.
½ teaspoon each: dried oregano, dried basil: Classic herbs that deepen the aromatic profile of the dish.

How to Make Chicken in Creamy Garlic Lemon Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Pound the Chicken

Start by slicing your chicken breasts in half, lengthwise, to create thinner cutlets. Place them between plastic wrap or in a freezer bag and gently pound until they’re about half an inch thick. This ensures the meat cooks quickly and evenly, giving you tender, juicy results every time. Be sure to pat the chicken dry so it browns nicely in the pan instead of steaming.

Step 2: Season and Coat the Chicken

Season both sides of your chicken slices generously with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Then dredge them lightly in flour, shaking off any excess. The flour coating helps achieve a beautiful golden crust and lends the sauce a subtle thickness as it cooks.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken in batches, searing each piece for 4 to 5 minutes per side until you get a gorgeous golden color. Resist the urge to move the chicken around too much; letting it sit undisturbed encourages that delicious crust to form. Remove the chicken and set it aside, leaving all the flavorful browned bits in the pan—they are pure gold for your sauce.

Step 4: Build the Sauce Base

Reduce the heat to medium and add butter to the skillet. Once it melts, stir in the minced garlic and cook everything for about one minute until the garlic releases its intoxicating fragrance. Don’t let it brown too much or it might turn bitter, but trust me—the aroma will make your kitchen smell incredible!

Step 5: Deglaze and Season the Sauce

Pour in the Worcestershire sauce and chicken broth, then add the dried parsley, mustard powder, oregano, and basil. Using a silicone spatula, scrape up the browned bits stuck to the pan’s bottom—this deglazing step is what transforms simple liquids into a savory powerhouse. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil to meld all those gorgeous flavors.

Step 6: Thicken the Sauce

If you want that velvety sauce thickness, whisk together the cornstarch with cold water until smooth, then slowly stir it into the bubbling sauce. Keep stirring until it thickens; if you prefer a thinner sauce, feel free to skip or reduce this step.

Step 7: Add Cream and Cheese

Lower the heat to low, then gradually stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. The cheese melts into the sauce, making it silky and rich with savory, nutty notes. The sauce should become luxuriously smooth and cling perfectly to your chicken.

Step 8: Simmer the Chicken and Finish with Lemon

Return the seared chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce on top. Partially cover, and simmer for 5 minutes to let the chicken soak in the creamy goodness and heat through completely. Finally, stir in the fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors and turn your sauce into a harmonious balance of creamy and citrusy perfection.

How to Serve Chicken in Creamy Garlic Lemon Sauce Recipe

A white round plate sits on a white marbled surface with a serving of mashed potatoes, green beans, and a piece of chicken covered in creamy gravy. The mashed potatoes are soft and creamy with a square of melting butter on top, sprinkled with black pepper, positioned on the right side of the plate with a fork resting in them. At the bottom of the plate are bright green beans, shiny and neatly arranged in a row. On the left side is a grilled chicken piece, golden brown with a thick layer of rich, light brown gravy sprinkled with fresh green parsley bits. A lemon wedge peeks out from behind the chicken near the top right edge of the plate. The background shows a white cloth and some parsley leaves with a lemon slice on the white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a vibrant green color but also a subtle freshness that lifts the entire dish. Consider adding a few lemon zest shreds if you want extra pop and an edible garnish that hints at the sauce’s citrus element.

Side Dishes

This Chicken in Creamy Garlic Lemon Sauce Recipe pairs wonderfully with smooth mashed potatoes that soak up the glorious sauce, or roasted green beans that add a pleasant crunch and a touch of earthiness. Buttered pasta or creamy risotto also make excellent companions for this dish.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special presentation, try serving the chicken on a bed of sautéed spinach or creamy polenta. Drizzle extra sauce over the top, then scatter toasted pine nuts or chopped toasted almonds for a delightful texture contrast. A lemon wedge on the side invites guests to add a little more zing if they wish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover chicken and sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce tends to thicken as it chills, so stirring it gently while reheating helps bring it back to its perfect creaminess.

Freezing

You can freeze the chicken in creamy garlic lemon sauce, but keep in mind that the texture of the cream can change slightly after freezing. For best results, freeze the chicken and sauce separately if possible. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

The best way to reheat this dish is gently over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from breaking. Adding a splash of chicken broth or cream can help loosen the sauce and restore that perfect creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless skinless chicken thighs will add even more juiciness and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through and tender.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you’re looking to lighten the dish, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce won’t be quite as rich or thick. For dairy-free options, canned coconut milk (full fat) works well and adds a unique twist.

Is Worcestershire sauce necessary?

Worcestershire sauce adds depth and subtle umami that really enhances the sauce, but if you don’t have it, a splash of soy sauce or even a bit of balsamic vinegar can substitute in a pinch.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for dredging your chicken. Ensure your chicken broth is also gluten-free, and you’ll have a safe, delicious meal.

How can I make the sauce thicker or thinner?

For a thicker sauce, increase the amount of cornstarch slurry or simmer the sauce a bit longer to reduce it. To thin the sauce, add more chicken broth or a touch more cream until you reach your desired consistency.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken in Creamy Garlic Lemon Sauce Recipe is one of those dishes that feels both elegant and comforting, perfect for weeknights or special occasions. With minimal fuss and ingredients you probably already have, you can create a meal bursting with vibrant flavors and satisfying textures. Give it a try – I promise it will quickly become a beloved staple in your cooking rotation that brings smiles around the table every time.