Name: Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 6 pieces chicken thighs (skin-on and bone-in); 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil; 1 large brown onion (finely chopped); 4 cloves garlic (minced); 6 cloves garlic (crushed); 2 teaspoons sweet paprika; 1 teaspoon lemon pepper or cracked pepper (optional); 3/4 cup chicken stock/broth (low sodium); 1/2 cup thickened/heavy cream or coconut cream; 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 1 pinch salt (to taste); 4 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme); lemon wedges (for serving)

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There’s something wonderfully comforting about a dish that combines the rich flavors of chicken with the zesty brightness of lemon and the aromatic allure of garlic. This Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken is one of those recipes that effortlessly brings warmth to the table while also being simple enough for a weeknight dinner. The chicken thighs are tender and juicy, enveloped in a creamy sauce that’s infused with the sharpness of lemon and the depth of garlic. It’s the perfect dish to elevate your dinner game, and trust me, your family will be asking for seconds!

Why I Love This Recipe

This recipe is a personal favorite because it strikes that perfect balance between comforting and refreshing. The creamy sauce clings to the chicken, while the lemon brightens every bite, making it a delightful experience. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, meaning less cleanup for busy weeknights. I love that it’s versatile too; you can serve it over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. It’s the kind of meal that feels fancy yet comes together in under an hour!

Ingredient Notes

6 chicken thighs – Skin-on and bone-in for maximum flavor and juiciness.
2 tablespoons butter or olive oil – Use whichever you prefer for sautéing. Butter adds richness, while olive oil is a healthier option.
1 large brown onion – Finely chopped to add sweetness and depth to the dish.
4 cloves garlic – Minced for a strong garlic flavor.
6 cloves garlic – Crushed with the back of a knife to release their oils and aroma.
2 teaspoons sweet paprika – Adds a subtle sweetness and beautiful color.
1 teaspoon lemon pepper or cracked pepper – Optional, for those who love a little extra kick.
3/4 cup chicken stock/broth – Use low sodium for better control over saltiness.
1/2 cup thickened/heavy cream or coconut cream – For a rich and creamy sauce.
1/4 cup lemon juice – Freshly squeezed for the best flavor.
1 pinch salt – To season the dish to your taste.
4 sprigs fresh thyme – Or 1 teaspoon dried thyme for a lovely herbal note.
Lemon wedges – To serve, enhancing the lemony goodness.

Recommended Tools

Large skillet – For cooking the chicken and sauce in one pan.
Wooden spoon – To stir the ingredients without scratching your skillet.
Citrus juicer – To easily extract juice from lemons.
Measuring cups and spoons – For precise ingredient measurements.
Sharp knife and cutting board – For chopping onions and garlic.

The Method for Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps to achieve a lovely golden crust when searing. Season both sides with a pinch of salt and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat the butter or olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken

Increase the heat to medium-high and add the chicken thighs, skin side down. Cook for about 5-6 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Flip the chicken over and brown the other side for an additional 4-5 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the crushed garlic and sweet paprika. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken stock and scrape the bottom of the skillet to release all those tasty browned bits. Allow it to simmer for a couple of minutes.

Step 5: Add Cream and Lemon

Lower the heat to medium and stir in the heavy cream and lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then add the thyme and season with lemon pepper (if using) and a pinch of salt.

Step 6: Return the Chicken

Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, skin side up. Spoon some of the sauce over the top. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 7: Serve

Once the chicken is cooked, garnish with fresh thyme and serve with lemon wedges on the side. Pair it with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad to complete your meal!

Dairy-Free/Gluten-Free Swaps

Coconut cream – Use this as a substitute for heavy cream for a dairy-free version.
Gluten-free chicken broth – Make sure to choose a broth that is certified gluten-free.
Olive oil – Always a safe choice for those avoiding dairy or gluten.

What I Learned Testing

Using skin-on chicken thighs not only adds flavor but also helps keep the meat juicy during cooking.
Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender meat.
Fresh thyme makes a noticeable difference in flavor compared to dried thyme, but both will work in a pinch.
Adjusting the amount of lemon juice can help customize the acidity to your liking—add a little more for a brighter sauce!

How to Store & Reheat

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much. You can also microwave it, covered, for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Common Qs About Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast can be used, but be aware that it may dry out more quickly. Consider marinating it beforehand to retain moisture.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat and serve when ready.

Is it possible to freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months.

What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or even a fresh green salad. Crusty bread is also great for soaking up the creamy sauce!

Ready to Cook?

Now that you have all the tips and tricks to make a delicious Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken, it’s time to get cooking! This dish is sure to be a hit at your dinner table, bringing smiles and satisfaction to all who dig in. Enjoy the creamy, lemony goodness and savor every bite!

The vibrant flavors and comforting textures of this Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken make it a standout dish. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner, it’s bound to impress. Happy cooking!