Description
This creamy lemon chicken with asparagus is a bright and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick dinner or a special occasion. The juicy chicken breasts are simmered in a tangy, rich lemon sauce, with tender asparagus adding the perfect crunch. It’s a delightful, fresh meal that’s light yet satisfying.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides, then add them to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, add the asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Add the garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Allow it to cook for 2 minutes, reducing slightly.
- Stir in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Add dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 3-4 minutes, until the sauce has thickened.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Let it simmer for another 3-5 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors and heat through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal.
If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk.
You can swap the asparagus with other vegetables like green beans, broccoli, or spinach.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the chicken.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg