If you’re looking for a dish that feels like sunshine on a plate, let me introduce you to Creamy Lemon Chicken with Asparagus. This dish brings together tender, juicy chicken with a rich, velvety sauce that’s packed with bright lemony flavor. Add in crisp-tender asparagus, and you’ve got a weeknight dinner that feels like a gourmet meal.
What I love most about this recipe is how it strikes the perfect balance between indulgent and fresh. The creamy sauce coats the chicken beautifully without being too heavy, thanks to the brightness from the lemon and the freshness of the asparagus. It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal but impressive enough to serve when you’re having friends over.
And here’s the kicker—this whole dish comes together in just 30 minutes! It’s one of those recipes that feels fancy but doesn’t require a ton of ingredients or time. Pair it with rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce, and you’ve got a dinner everyone will be asking for again and again.
A Simple and Elegant Weeknight Dinner
This Creamy Lemon Chicken with Asparagus is all about bright, fresh flavors balanced by a luscious creamy sauce. It’s a dish that feels light yet satisfying, with the tangy lemon cutting through the richness of the cream, and the asparagus adding a delightful crunch.
The combination of tender chicken, crisp asparagus, and a dreamy lemon-cream sauce makes this meal both comforting and refreshing. Whether you’re cooking for the family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress.
A Family Favorite: A Go-To Comfort Dish with a Twist
This Creamy Lemon Chicken with Asparagus is one of those dishes that has quickly become a favorite in our house. I remember the first time I made it—my husband took one bite and immediately said, “This one’s a keeper!” Now it’s a staple in our weekly meal plan, especially when we want something quick but restaurant-quality.
The kids love the creamy sauce (who wouldn’t?), and I love that I’m sneaking in some veggies with the asparagus. One time, I made this for a small family gathering, and it was a huge hit. By the end of dinner, the sauce was practically licked off the plates! It’s become one of those recipes that I can always count on to make everyone happy.
Why This Creamy Lemon Chicken with Asparagus?
Uniqueness: This recipe combines the richness of a creamy sauce with the zing of fresh lemon, making it a refreshing take on classic creamy chicken dishes. The asparagus adds a pop of color and crunch, making the dish both nutritious and delicious.
Ingredients: Juicy chicken breasts, fresh asparagus, garlic, heavy cream, lemon zest, and Parmesan cheese.
Flavors: Expect a perfectly balanced sauce that’s creamy yet light, with bright lemon flavor shining through. The chicken is tender, and the asparagus adds a fresh, earthy crunch.
Tips:
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Make sure to cook the chicken breasts just until they’re done to keep them juicy. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Asparagus Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of asparagus, swap it for green beans or broccoli.
- Make It Extra Lemony: For a bolder lemon flavor, add more zest or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving.
Substitutions and Variations:
- Chicken Thighs: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier option.
- Low-Fat Option: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version of the sauce.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with tofu or your favorite meat substitute, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Make a Healthier Version:
- Low Carb: Serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
- Low Fat: Use light cream or evaporated milk in place of heavy cream for a lighter version of the sauce.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure that your chicken broth and Parmesan cheese are gluten-free, and serve with gluten-free pasta or rice.
And there you have it! A simple yet elegant Creamy Lemon Chicken with Asparagus that’s perfect for any night of the week. The flavors are so fresh and bright, you’ll want to make this again and again. Don’t forget to try it with different veggies or proteins for endless variations. Enjoy, and let us know how it turns out!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use frozen asparagus?
Yes, just thaw it first and adjust the cooking time since frozen asparagus tends to cook faster. - What can I serve with this dish?
It’s delicious with rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or a side of crusty bread to soak up the sauce. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can make the sauce and chicken ahead of time, but wait to add the asparagus until just before serving to keep it crisp. - How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave. - Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Try adding mushrooms, spinach, or peas for extra color and flavor. - Is this dish keto-friendly?
Yes! This recipe is naturally low-carb and fits well into a keto diet, especially if served with cauliflower rice or another keto-friendly side.
Creamy Lemon Chicken with Asparagus
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Description
If you’re looking for a dish that feels like sunshine on a plate, let me introduce you to Creamy Lemon Chicken with Asparagus. This dish brings together tender, juicy chicken with a rich, velvety sauce that’s packed with bright lemony flavor.
Ingredients
4 medium chicken breasts, (boneless, skinless)
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp EACH crushed red pepper, salt, pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons butter, (divided)
1 pound asparagus, (trimmed and cut in 3rds)
1/2 cup onion, (minced)
3-4 cloves garlic, (minced)
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, (optional)
Instructions
Season chicken with Italian seasoning, crushed chili pepper, salt & pepper. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil to a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken to the pan and cook for 5-6 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Add butter onion, and asparagus to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until just tender. Add the garlic and cook for just under a minute.
Add heavy cream, lemon juice, and parmesan cheese; stir to combine. Return chicken to the pan and simmer 3-4 minutes or until the sauce has thickened. Taste and adjust salt & pepper if needed. If the sauce is too thick, add 1/4 cup water, chicken stock or broth.
- Prep Time: 5
- Cook Time: 25
Nutrition
- Calories: 607kcal
- Fat: 39g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 55g
