Creamy Lemon Chicken With Vegetables

Name: Creamy Lemon Chicken With Vegetables
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, and broccoli); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Traditions

When I decided to make Creamy Lemon Chicken with Vegetables, I wanted to create a dish that was both comforting and zesty. The bright flavors of lemon combined with the creaminess of the sauce create a delightful balance that I can't resist. This recipe has become a staple in our home because it’s not only easy to prepare but also showcases fresh vegetables. I love how the ingredients come together to create a meal that feels indulgent without being overly complicated.

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-02-15T00:01:36.205Z

I truly believe that the secret to a great Creamy Lemon Chicken lies in the way you balance the flavors. I often use fresh lemon juice to amplify the brightness of the meal, as it cuts through the richness of the cream. Experimenting with different vegetables has also allowed me to customize the recipe to our tastes, whether it’s adding in seasonal favorites or what’s left in the fridge.

One tip I found helpful is to sauté the chicken until it's just golden before adding the sauce. This not only enhances the flavors but also gives the chicken a lovely texture. Each bite of this dish feels like a warm hug, making it perfect for cozy family dinners.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Zesty lemon flavor that brightens your meal
Creamy sauce that beautifully coats the chicken and veggies
Versatile recipe that easily adapts to different seasonal vegetables

Cooking the Chicken to Perfection

To achieve perfectly cooked chicken, it's essential to preheat your skillet well; this ensures a nice sear that locks in the juices. I recommend using medium-high heat for a golden crust. When seasoning the chicken breasts, don’t be shy with the salt and pepper—it enhances the flavor and complements the creamy sauce. A good visual cue is when the chicken develops a beautiful golden brown exterior, indicating that it’s ready to be flipped, usually after about 6-7 minutes per side.

After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This resting period is crucial as it enables the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite remains moist and flavorful. While the chicken rests, you can prep your vegetables, as this dish is achieved in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.

Choosing and Preparing the Vegetables

The recipe calls for mixed vegetables, but feel free to tailor this according to seasonal availability or personal preferences. Bell peppers, zucchini, and broccoli are wonderful choices due to their complementary textures and flavors. If you want to incorporate other vegetables, consider asparagus or snap peas for a different crunch. Just ensure that they are cut into uniform sizes, so they cook evenly in the skillet—typically sautéing for 5-7 minutes until tender yet still vibrant in color.

When sautéing, keep a close eye on your stovetop. Stir the vegetables occasionally to prevent any from sticking or burning. You want them tender but still crisp; they should have a bright, fresh appearance, indicating they’re perfectly cooked and ready to be incorporated into the sauce. This step preserves their nutrients while adding delightful color to your dish.

Enhancing the Creamy Sauce

When making the sauce, the right balance of flavors is essential. As you combine the chicken broth, heavy cream, lemon juice, and zest, consider adjusting the acidity with additional lemon juice for a zesty kick or adding a pinch of sugar if the sauce feels too tangy. It’s a delicate balance that transforms the dish from simple to indulgent. Keep an eye on the simmer; a gentle simmer will allow the sauce to thicken nicely without reducing too quickly.

Once you return the chicken to the skillet, I suggest letting it simmer in the sauce for 2-3 minutes to soak up all those flavors fully. This not only enhances the taste but also integrates the creamy sauce into the chicken, creating a luxurious mouthfeel. As a final touch, garnish with fresh parsley for a clean, herbal note that brightens every bite.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, and broccoli)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Cook the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the mixed vegetables and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Make the Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the chicken broth, heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken for about 5 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it well with the creamy lemon sauce. Let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Pro Tips

For an extra punch of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for some heat. Serve with rice or pasta to soak up all that delicious creamy sauce!

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the creamy lemon chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken upon refrigeration, but it should still maintain its flavor. Reheating can be done over low heat on the stovetop, stirring gently to ensure the sauce regains its creaminess. Avoid microwaving, as it can separate the sauce, leading to an unappealing texture.

For longer storage, consider freezing the dish, which will keep for about 1-2 months. However, I recommend freezing just the chicken and sauce together without the vegetables, as they tend to lose texture upon thawing and reheating. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy lemon chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. I love serving it over a bed of fluffy rice, which absorbs the delicious sauce or alongside buttered pasta to enhance the richness. For a lighter option, serve it atop a fresh salad; the zesty flavor of the chicken will elevate even a simple green salad.

To add an extra touch of brightness, consider offering a lemon wedge on the side for those who enjoy a more pronounced citrus flavor. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan can also offer a nice depth that complements the creaminess of the sauce beautifully, making this dish feel gourmet without the fuss.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables in this recipe?

Yes, frozen vegetables can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to the skillet.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.

→ Can I substitute the heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative, but the consistency and flavor might differ slightly.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

This dish pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or a crisp green salad to complement the creamy sauce.