Tender Chicken Fillets with a Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce – Juicy, Creamy, and Zesty

Tender Chicken Fillets with a Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce is a comforting, flavorful dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Juicy chicken fillets are pan-seared until golden, then coated in a luscious cream sauce infused with garlic, fresh lemon juice, and a touch of herbs. It’s elegant enough for entertaining yet simple enough for a quick weeknight meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bright & Zesty – Lemon juice adds freshness and balances the creaminess.
Rich & Flavorful – Garlic and cream create a velvety sauce that clings to every bite.
Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal effort.
Versatile – Pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or steamed veggies.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken fillets (about 1 lb / 450g)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice (plus extra for garnish)
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken
   Pat chicken fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Cook the Chicken
   Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C). Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
3. Make the Sauce
   In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add the remaining butter and garlic; sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Combine & Serve
   Return chicken fillets to the pan, spooning sauce over the top. Simmer gently for 1–2 minutes, then garnish with parsley and extra lemon if desired. Serve hot.

Nutritional Information

Calories: ~340
Protein: 28g
Fat: 24g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Sugar: 1g
Fiber: 0g

Tips for Success

• Pound the Fillets Evenly – Helps them cook quickly and stay tender.
• Don’t Overcook – Remove chicken as soon as it reaches 165°F for juicy results.
• Balance the Sauce – Adjust lemon juice to taste; a little extra brightens the creaminess.

Why This Recipe Works

Pan-searing the chicken locks in moisture, while the garlic-lemon cream sauce creates a silky finish that enhances the meat’s natural flavor. The combination of zesty citrus and rich cream gives this dish an elegant yet comforting touch.

Tender Chicken Fillets with a Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce is a quick, satisfying recipe perfect for busy nights or casual entertaining. With its creamy texture, tangy lemon notes, and juicy chicken, it’s a dish that always delights.