Creamy Lemon Herb Skillet Chicken Thighs

Creamy Lemon Herb Skillet Chicken Thighs is a comforting yet elegant dish made with pan-seared chicken thighs in a rich, velvety lemon herb cream sauce. It’s a one-skillet meal that’s full of flavor, ideal for both casual dinners and special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe delivers juicy chicken with a golden crust and a sauce that’s both bright and creamy. The blend of fresh herbs and lemon balances richness with acidity, making it satisfying but not heavy. Plus, it’s made entirely in one pan, saving time on cleanup.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Bone-in or boneless skin-on chicken thighs
• Olive oil or butter
• Garlic (minced)
• Shallots or onion (finely chopped)
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Fresh lemon juice
• Lemon zest
• Fresh herbs (thyme, parsley, basil, or dill)
• Salt and black pepper
• Parmesan cheese (optional, for added richness)

directions

1. Season and Sear Chicken: Pat chicken thighs dry and season with salt and pepper. Heat oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken thighs skin-side down until golden brown, about 5–6 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
2. Make the Sauce Base: In the same skillet, reduce heat. Add a little more oil if needed, then sauté garlic and shallots until fragrant. Deglaze the pan with chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits.
3. Add Cream and Lemon: Stir in cream, lemon juice, zest, and herbs. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
4. Return Chicken to Pan: Nestle chicken thighs back into the sauce. Cover and simmer on low for 10–15 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
5. Finish: Sprinkle with fresh herbs and Parmesan if using. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

Serves 4.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Use Chicken Breasts: Adjust cooking time to avoid drying out.
• Add Spinach or Peas: Stir in before serving for added texture and nutrition.
• Make it Spicy: Add crushed red pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute cream with full-fat coconut milk.
• Serve Over Pasta or Rice: Makes the dish even more satisfying.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much. Not recommended for freezing due to dairy content.

FAQs

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, but reduce the amount by half since dried herbs are more concentrated.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be thinner.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well—just store the sauce and chicken together.

What’s the best skillet to use?

A cast iron or stainless steel skillet works best for even browning.

Is this gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your broth and cream are gluten-free.

Can I thicken the sauce more?

Yes, simmer uncovered or stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water.

What pairs well with this dish?

Mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables.

Can I grill the chicken first?

Yes, grill then simmer in the sauce to combine flavors.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F when checked with a thermometer.

Does this work with other citrus?

Yes, orange or lime juice can be used for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

Creamy Lemon Herb Skillet Chicken Thighs offers the perfect combination of crisp, juicy chicken and a rich, tangy sauce. Whether for a cozy weeknight dinner or an elegant meal for guests, this dish is both simple and satisfying.

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