Description
Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines juicy chicken breasts with a rich, creamy lemon pepper sauce. The dish is quick to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The tangy lemon pairs beautifully with the savory seasoning, while the creamy sauce gives each bite a velvety texture. Served with a garnish of fresh herbs and lemon slices, this skillet chicken is a delightful meal that’s both simple and elegant.
Ingredients
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2 large chicken breasts (about 2 pounds total), sliced in half lengthwise to create 4 thin chicken cutlets
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Kosher salt (to taste)
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Coarsely ground pepper (to taste)
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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3 tablespoons butter
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1 small shallot, minced
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
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1 cup half and half
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1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (juice from 1–2 lemons)
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1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
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Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)
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Lemon slices (for garnish)
Instructions
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Prepare the Chicken:
Season the chicken cutlets with kosher salt and coarsely ground pepper on both sides. -
Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken cutlets and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. -
Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the minced shallot and garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened. -
Thicken the Sauce:
Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, ensuring it doesn’t burn. Gradually add the chicken broth, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Next, add the half and half, lemon juice, and lemon pepper seasoning. Stir until the sauce begins to thicken and becomes creamy. -
Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for another 2-3 minutes to heat through and absorb some of the flavors.
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Garnish and Serve:
Garnish the dish with fresh parsley or basil and lemon slices before serving. Serve with your favorite side dish, such as rice, pasta, or vegetables.
Notes
Adjust the Flavor: For a stronger lemon flavor, feel free to add more lemon juice or lemon zest to the sauce.
Make it Lighter: You can substitute half and half with a lighter milk option, though the sauce may not be as creamy.
Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted potatoes, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
Leftovers: Store leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Pan-fried, Skillet
- Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Keywords: Lemon pepper chicken, skillet chicken, creamy chicken recipe, lemon chicken, chicken breast dinner, creamy lemon sauce, weeknight chicken recipe