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Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet with Crispy Edges

Two golden, crispy-edged chicken breasts resting in a rich, creamy lemon garlic sauce, garnished with parsley.

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Make a flavorful main dish using one skillet. This recipe cooks chicken breasts to achieve crispy edges, then finishes them in a rich, bright lemon and garlic cream sauce.

Ingredients

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  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
  2. Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the butter foams.
  3. Place the seasoned chicken in the hot skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 4 to 6 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy on the edges. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
  4. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the remaining fat in the skillet and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Do not let the garlic burn.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the broth simmer and reduce slightly for 2 minutes.
  6. Stir in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook until it thickens slightly, about 3 minutes.
  7. Return the chicken to the skillet. Spoon the sauce over the chicken. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, turning once, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F or 74°C).
  8. Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving immediately.

Notes

  • For extra crispy edges, pat the chicken very dry with paper towels before seasoning.
  • If your skillet is small, sear the chicken in batches to maintain high heat for better browning.
  • Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer flavor; adjust cooking time as needed.

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