Creamy Lemon Chicken With Vegetables

Name: Creamy Lemon Chicken With Vegetables
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 2 tablespoons lemon zest; 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice; 2 cups spinach, washed and chopped; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 yellow bell pepper, diced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Kitchen Creations

I absolutely love making Creamy Lemon Chicken with Vegetables because it's the perfect combination of flavors and textures. The bright citrus notes from the lemon pair beautifully with the creamy sauce and tender chicken. Plus, I can easily sneak in a variety of colorful vegetables, making it a well-rounded meal. It's quick to prepare, which is ideal for busy weeknights, and definitely a crowd-pleaser. Trust me, once you've tried this dish, it will quickly become your go-to comfort food!

Created by

Ivy Richardson

Last updated on 2026-02-10T20:21:36.132Z

When I first attempted this recipe, I was taken by surprise at how simple it was to create a dish that felt so gourmet. The secret is in the lemon zest; it enhances the flavor far beyond just using juice. I also found that using a combination of fresh spinach and bell peppers added both nutrients and a vibrant color, making the dish visually appealing.

Each time I prepare this creamy lemon chicken, I experiment with different vegetables based on what's in season. The versatility of this dish means that you can tailor it to your tastes or dietary preferences. For extra creaminess, I sometimes stir in a little cream cheese just before serving, and it elevates the dish beautifully!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Zesty lemon brightness that lifts the entire dish
Silky creaminess that hugs each bite of chicken
Versatile recipe that adapts to your favorite vegetables

Ingredient Insights

The choice of vegetables in this Creamy Lemon Chicken dish can greatly influence the overall flavor and nutrition. Spinach not only adds a vibrant color but also is rich in iron and vitamins. If you're looking to switch things up, feel free to substitute with kale or Swiss chard for a different texture and taste. Likewise, bell peppers can be replaced with zucchini or asparagus, which also complement the creamy sauce beautifully. Just remember to adjust the cooking time based on the vegetable used, ensuring they remain tender-crisp without becoming mushy.

Lemon is the star of this recipe, providing that refreshing zing that balances the creaminess. When zesting, be careful to avoid the bitter white pith under the skin, focusing solely on the vibrant yellow peel for optimal flavor. Fresh lemon juice is recommended for a brighter taste, but in a pinch, bottled lemon juice can be used—just be sure to halve the quantity as it's often more concentrated. The acidity not only brightens the dish but also helps tenderize the chicken, making each bite succulent and flavorful.

Technique Tips

When searing the chicken, it's important to get your skillet hot before adding the oil and chicken. This helps achieve a nice golden crust, which is vital for flavor. If your chicken is not browning properly, the heat may be too low. If using a non-stick skillet, ensure you adjust the heat appropriately to avoid burning the oil while still achieving that perfect sear. Remember to let the chicken rest after cooking; this helps retain the juices better when slicing.

Simmering the sauce after adding the lemon juice is crucial for flavor development. Allow it to reduce slightly until it thickens—about 5 minutes. If the sauce seems too runny, you can mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water and add it to the sauce, stirring constantly until it thickens to your desired consistency. A glossy sauce with a slight coating quality is what you're aiming for. Don’t forget to taste as you go; adjusting salt and pepper at this stage can make a significant difference.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your Creamy Lemon Chicken with Vegetables.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons lemon zest
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
2 cups spinach, washed and chopped
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 yellow bell pepper, diced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to adjust your seasonings to taste and enjoy!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Creamy Lemon Chicken with Vegetables.

Cook 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 on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the chicken broth, heavy cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to combine the flavors.

Add the Vegetables

Stir in the chopped spinach and diced bell peppers to the sauce. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce and vegetables over the top. Allow everything to heat through for another 2 minutes.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm with a side of rice or pasta if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Creamy Lemon Chicken with Vegetables!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in lemon juice and garlic for an hour before cooking.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Lemon Chicken is a fantastic dish to prepare ahead of time. You can marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and zest for up to 4 hours before cooking to enhance the flavor. If you prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two days. When ready to serve, simply heat them together in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and the chicken is at the proper internal temperature of 165°F.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. I recommend reheating on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to prevent the cream from separating. Be cautious with high heat; gentle warming preserves both the texture and flavor. Freezing is another option, although fresh cream sauces can sometimes change texture when thawed. If you choose to freeze, I suggest separating the chicken and sauce into two containers for easier reheating.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Lemon Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a comforting meal, serve it over fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the luscious sauce. Alternatively, consider using quinoa or couscous as a healthier grain option that adds a lovely nutty flavor to your plate. The addition of a crisp garden salad with a light lemon vinaigrette can also elevate the meal, providing a fresh contrast to the richness of the chicken.

Don’t hesitate to garnish this dish with extra lemon slices or even fresh herbs like dill or chives for added brightness just before serving. These small details can take your dish from good to great, creating an appealing presentation. If you're planning a dinner gathering, serving it alongside crusty bread can encourage guests to savor every drop of that creamy sauce.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even results.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative if you're looking for a lighter option.

→ Is there a low-carb option for this dish?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with zucchini noodles (zoodles) for a lower-carb version.

→ How long can I store the leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.