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Low Carb Creamy Lemon Chicken - Bright, Comforting, and Weeknight-Friendly

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 small) or 4 boneless, skinless thighs
  • Salt and black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1–2 lemons (zest of 1, plus 3–4 tablespoons fresh juice)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (finely grated)
  • Fresh parsley or chives, chopped, for garnish
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

Method
 

  1. Prep the chicken: Slice large chicken breasts horizontally to create thin cutlets. Pat dry. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
  2. Heat the pan: Set a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter.
  3. Sear the chicken: When the fat shimmers, add chicken in a single layer. Cook 3–4 minutes per side until golden and just cooked through. Transfer to a plate and tent with foil.
  4. Sauté aromatics: Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining 1 tablespoon butter and the minced garlic. Cook 30–60 seconds until fragrant. Don’t brown the garlic.
  5. Deglaze: Pour in chicken broth. Scrape up any browned bits from the pan. Simmer 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
  6. Add cream and lemon: Stir in heavy cream, lemon zest, and 2 tablespoons lemon juice. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes, stirring, until slightly thickened.
  7. Finish with Parmesan: Whisk in Parmesan until melted and the sauce is smooth. Taste and add more lemon juice, salt, and pepper as needed. For heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
  8. Return the chicken: Add chicken and any juices back to the pan. Spoon sauce over the top. Simmer 2 minutes to warm through and let flavors meld.
  9. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with chopped parsley or chives. Serve with sautéed spinach, roasted broccoli, or zucchini noodles to keep it low carb.