Creamy Lemon Chicken
Creamy Lemon Chicken is a delicious and comforting dish that brings bright flavors to your dinner table. This recipe is easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The tender chicken, infused with zesty lemon and creamy sauce, will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is not only simple but also packed with flavor. The combination of lemon, garlic, and Italian seasoning creates a delightful taste that pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes. Plus, using a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, allowing the chicken to become incredibly tender. It’s a great way to enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
How to Make Creamy Lemon Chicken
Ingredients
- 5 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 lemons, juiced and zested
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup half and half
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon chicken base (optional but recommended)
Directions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 4-6 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer the seared chicken to your slow cooker.
- Pour the lemon juice and zest over the chicken, add the minced garlic, and dot with the remaining butter pieces.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- In a large measuring cup, whisk together the half and half, cornstarch, and chicken base until completely smooth.
- Pour the cream mixture into the slow cooker and gently stir to combine. Cook on high for an additional 1 hour until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve the chicken with the creamy lemon sauce over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes.
How to Serve Creamy Lemon Chicken
Creamy Lemon Chicken is best served hot. You can place the chicken on a plate and pour the creamy sauce over it. Serve it with a side of steamed vegetables, rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley can add a nice touch too!
How to Store Creamy Lemon Chicken
To store leftovers, place the chicken and sauce in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just make sure to let it cool down before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
Tips to Make Creamy Lemon Chicken
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the lemon juice, garlic, and Italian seasoning for a few hours before cooking.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add more cornstarch, but be sure to mix it well to avoid lumps.
- Adjust the amount of lemon juice based on your taste preference. If you love tangy flavors, add more!
Variation
You can easily adapt this recipe by adding vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers. Just add them to the slow cooker along with the chicken for extra nutrition and flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs will work perfectly in this recipe. They may take a little longer to cook, so adjust the cooking time if needed.
2. Is it possible to make this recipe in the oven?
Yes! You can bake the chicken in a covered dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, then add the creamy sauce mixture and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
3. Can I skip the cornstarch?
Yes, you can skip the cornstarch; however, the sauce will be thinner. If you prefer a thicker sauce without cornstarch, try letting it simmer longer to reduce it.
Enjoy making your Creamy Lemon Chicken and savor each delicious bite!
