Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that combines the zesty brightness of lemons with the rich creaminess of a savory sauce—Creamy Lemon Chicken with Greens! This Italian-inspired recipe not only promises to elevate your weeknight dinners but also delivers a burst of flavor that will leave your family and friends craving more. With just 40 minutes from prep to plate, you can impress your guests with a gourmet meal that’s deceptively simple to make. Ready to dive into a culinary adventure that will have everyone asking for seconds? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 lemons, juiced
- 2 cups spinach
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 chicken breasts, 1 cup of heavy cream, 2 lemons (juiced), 2 cups of fresh spinach, 2 cloves of minced garlic, salt, pepper, and olive oil.
- Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and season both sides with salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet.
- Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is golden brown. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Pour in the heavy cream and the juice of the two lemons into the skillet, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting it thicken slightly.
- Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and stir until the spinach wilts, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the creamy lemon sauce over the top. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Once done, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve the creamy lemon chicken hot, garnished with extra lemon slices or fresh herbs if desired, alongside your choice of side dishes such as rice or pasta.
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: For the best results, opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They cook evenly and absorb the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Don’t Rush the Searing: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This helps achieve that golden-brown crust, sealing in the juices for a tender bite.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh spinach and real lemons for juicing. Fresh ingredients enhance the overall flavor and make the dish more vibrant.
- Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream. It will still provide a creamy texture without being overly rich.
- Flavor Boost: Feel free to add herbs like thyme or basil for an extra layer of flavor. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley before serving adds a nice touch!
- Perfect Pairings: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread, rice, or pasta. Consider a light salad to balance the richness of the creamy sauce.
- Leftovers Delight: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors meld even more overnight, making for a delicious lunch the next day!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 183kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 14g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 65mg
