Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

Few dishes strike the perfect balance between comforting richness and zesty brightness like Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken. This one-pan wonder is a weeknight hero—quick enough for a busy schedule, yet elegant enough to serve at a dinner party. With tender chicken seared to golden perfection and bathed in a velvety lemon-infused sauce, this recipe brings both flavor and finesse to your table.

Lemon and black pepper are a classic pairing, and in this dish, they shine against a backdrop of creamy sauce that’s lightened by the citrusy tang. What elevates this recipe further is its simplicity. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner looking for an impressive meal with minimal effort, this dish delivers. You can serve it over pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice, making it versatile and family-friendly.

Everything comes together in a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze. And the best part? You likely have most of the ingredients already in your kitchen. Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken is a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients coming together in the most flavorful way.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with simple steps and minimal prep.
2. One-Pan Meal – Less mess and easy cleanup, perfect for busy weeknights.
3. Versatile Serving Options – Pairs well with pasta, rice, or veggies.
4. Bold Yet Balanced Flavor – Creamy richness meets tangy lemon and peppery spice.
5. Family-Friendly – Mild enough for kids but flavorful enough for adults.

Ingredients

• Boneless chicken breasts or thighs
• Lemon juice
• Heavy cream
• Garlic
• Chicken broth
• Black pepper
• Olive oil
• Butter
• Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley

Variations

Swap the Protein

Try using shrimp, salmon, or even tofu for a twist on the original.

Dairy-Free Version

Use coconut cream or a plant-based alternative for the creamy base.

Spice It Up

Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for heat lovers.

Herbaceous Upgrade

Incorporate fresh thyme or rosemary for added depth of flavor.

Gluten-Free

Ensure the chicken broth and other components are certified gluten-free.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Add the chicken to the skillet and sear until golden brown on both sides and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.

Step 4: Deglaze and Add Broth

Pour in chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any brown bits.

Step 5: Add Cream and Lemon

Stir in the heavy cream and lemon juice. Simmer gently until the sauce begins to thicken.

Step 6: Stir in Cheese

Add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.

Step 7: Return Chicken to Pan

Place the seared chicken back into the skillet, spooning sauce over each piece.

Step 8: Simmer and Serve

Let everything simmer together for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet—cook in batches if needed.
• Pound chicken evenly for uniform cooking.
• Let the sauce simmer gently to avoid curdling.
• Add the cheese slowly and stir continuously to prevent clumps.

How to Serve

• Over linguine or angel hair pasta for a classic pairing
• On a bed of rice or mashed potatoes for comfort-food vibes
• With sautéed spinach or roasted vegetables for a lighter option
• In a sandwich or wrap for a quick lunch makeover
• Topped with extra lemon zest and cracked pepper for brightness

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Reheat gently to retain the sauce’s texture.

Reheating

Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless thighs work well and stay very juicy.

2. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely. Use coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative for the cream and omit the cheese or use a plant-based version.

3. Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your chicken broth and cheese are certified gluten-free.

4. How do I thicken the sauce?

Simmer longer to reduce the liquid, or add a cornstarch slurry if needed.

5. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, spinach, mushrooms, or asparagus are great additions.

6. Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and reheat gently before serving.

7. What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Half-and-half or Greek yogurt can be used, though it may slightly alter the texture.

8. How do I avoid overcooking the chicken?

Use a meat thermometer—165°F (74°C) is the safe internal temperature.

9. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger skillet or work in batches to avoid overcrowding.

10. What type of skillet is best?

A heavy-bottomed skillet like cast iron or stainless steel holds heat best for searing.

Conclusion

Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken is the perfect example of how a few everyday ingredients can create a standout dish. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this recipe offers both comfort and sophistication with minimal effort. The lemon and pepper flavor combination keeps things bright, while the creamy sauce ensures every bite is rich and satisfying. Best of all, it’s versatile, easy to make, and guaranteed to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed.

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