Creamy Lemon Butter Chicken

Serene Treasures

24 Feb, 2025

Why This Recipe is a Game-Changer

One-Pan Wonder – Easy prep, minimal cleanup.
Rich & Creamy – A perfect balance of butter, lemon, and cream.
Crowd Favorite – Loved by kids and adults alike!

A step-by-step collage: seasoning chicken, searing in skillet, adding broth, cream, and finishing with spinach.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Creamy Lemon Butter Chicken

Ingredients (Serves 4)

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1 tsp salt + 1 tsp lemon pepper
3 tbsp butter (divided)
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
¼ cup fresh lemon juice
1 tsp thyme + 5 oz baby spinach

Instructions

Prep & Season – Pat chicken dry and season with salt and lemon pepper.
Sear the Chicken – Heat 2 tbsp butter in a skillet. Sear chicken skin-side down until golden brown. Flip and repeat.
Make the Sauce – Remove chicken. Melt 1 tbsp butter, sauté garlic, then deglaze with broth. Stir in cream, Parmesan, lemon juice, and thyme.
Bake & Finish – Return chicken to skillet. Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes. Stir in spinach and bake 5 more minutes.
Optional – Broil for 2 minutes for crispier skin!

Flavor Variations & Substitutes

Keto-Friendly: Use kale instead of spinach and serve with cauliflower rice.
Dairy-Free: Swap cream for coconut milk and use nutritional yeast.
Extra Zing: Add lemon zest for more citrusy flavor.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with: Garlic butter rice, pasta, or crusty bread.
Veggies: Roasted asparagus or steamed green beans.
Wine Pairing: Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.

Storage & Reheating

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
Reheat: Use a skillet over medium heat with a splash of cream.
Freezing? Not recommended—cream can separate.

FAQs

❓ Can I use chicken breasts? Yes! Just reduce cooking time slightly to prevent dryness.
❓ How do I fix a broken sauce? Add 1 tbsp cornstarch slurry (1:1 water and starch) and whisk well.
❓ Can I make this ahead? Yes, prep the sauce and sear the chicken a day ahead. Bake before serving.