Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and elevate your weeknight cooking from ordinary to extraordinary! This French-inspired Chicken in Lemon and Cream recipe is not just a meal, but a luxurious experience that combines the bright, zesty notes of fresh lemon with the rich, velvety embrace of cream. In just 35 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-quality dish that will have your family and friends begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add butter, allowing it to melt and become slightly foamy.
- Place chicken breasts in the hot skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside on a warm plate, covering loosely with aluminum foil to keep warm.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add heavy cream, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and lemon zest.
- Sprinkle thyme into the cream sauce and stir continuously, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Simmer the sauce for 3-4 minutes until it slightly thickens and becomes smooth and glossy.
- Return chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the lemon cream sauce over each piece to coat evenly.
- Serve immediately, garnishing with additional fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Ensure your chicken reaches exactly 165°F (74°C) for perfect doneness and food safety.
- Pat Dry for Perfect Browning: Always pat chicken breasts dry before seasoning to achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and zest make a significant difference in the sauce's brightness and flavor.
- Don't Rush the Sauce: Allow the cream sauce to simmer and reduce slowly to develop a rich, glossy texture.
- Skillet Selection Matters: Use a heavy-bottomed skillet for even heat distribution and better sauce development.
- Garnish Wisely: A sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves just before serving can elevate the dish's visual appeal and aroma.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Cholesterol: 140mg
