Creamy Lemon Chicken With Vegetables

Name: Creamy Lemon Chicken With Vegetables
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 cup sliced bell peppers (red and yellow); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup chicken broth; Zest and juice of 1 large lemon; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Highlighted under: Home-Cooked Bliss

When I first tried Creamy Lemon Chicken With Vegetables, I was instantly captivated by the refreshing burst of lemon balanced with the richness of cream. The zesty sauce perfectly envelops tender chicken and colorful vegetables, creating a delightful dish that is both comforting and bright. I have enjoyed making this meal for family gatherings, where it never fails to impress with its vibrant appearance and tantalizing flavors. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, as it’s quick to prepare yet tastefully indulgent.

Created by

Tabitha Green

Last updated on 2026-02-10T19:17:36.257Z

When I first set out to make Creamy Lemon Chicken With Vegetables, I wanted to create a dish that was not only flavorful but also visually stunning. After several attempts, I discovered that the key is using fresh lemon juice combined with a touch of zest for that extra zing. The creaminess of the sauce melds beautifully with sautéed vegetables, adding depth to every bite.

One essential tip I learned is to sauté the vegetables until they are just tender to retain a slight crunch, enhancing the overall texture. This makes the dish feel light yet fulfilling, perfect for any occasion, whether it's a weeknight dinner or a festive celebration.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Refreshing lemon flavor that brightens the dish
Creamy sauce that complements the tender chicken and veggies
Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights or special occasions

A Flavorful Balance

The interplay between creamy and zesty is the heart of this dish. The heavy cream serves not only to enrich but also to mellow the sharpness of the lemon, creating a harmonious flavor profile. When you simmer the sauce, aim for a gentle bubble, which helps emulsify the cream and broth, ensuring the sauce becomes thick and glossy. This texture is key to it clinging to the chicken and vegetables, making every bite a burst of flavor.

Incorporating fresh herbs like thyme and parsley enhances the dish's complexity. Dried thyme infuses the cream sauce with earthy notes, adding depth to the lemon’s brightness. The parsley, added at the end, provides a fresh, aromatic finish. Make sure to chop the parsley finely; this will allow its flavor to distribute evenly throughout the dish, creating a cohesive taste in every bite.

Ingredient Tips

Choosing the right chicken breasts is crucial for achieving a tender, juicy result. Opt for organic, fresh chicken if possible as it has a better flavor profile and texture compared to frozen varieties. If you prefer, you can substitute chicken thighs for a richer flavor; just adjust cooking time accordingly, as they may need an extra few minutes on the skillet.

For the vegetables, feel free to adapt depending on what you have on hand. Asparagus or green beans can make excellent substitutions for broccoli, while zucchini slices provide a lovely texture. Keep in mind that similar cooking times are essential to ensure all vegetables remain crisp-tender, so cut them into uniform sizes to promote even cooking.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Vegetables

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup sliced bell peppers (red and yellow)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cream Sauce

1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

Sauté 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 6-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Cook the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the broccoli, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp. Remove the vegetables and set aside with the chicken.

Prepare the Sauce

To the skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir in the dried thyme and bring to a gentle simmer.

Combine Everything

Return the chicken and vegetables to the skillet. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and coat the ingredients. Serve garnished with fresh parsley.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a mild heat that balances the creaminess.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Lemon Chicken With Vegetables can be prepared in advance, making it perfect for meal prep. Cook the chicken and vegetables, and then prepare the sauce but keep it separate until you are ready to serve. Store each component in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy the dish, reheat the chicken and veggies in a skillet over medium heat, adding the sauce until warmed through.

If you wish to freeze this dish, I recommend freezing the chicken and sauce separately to maintain texture. The cooked vegetables can become mushy once thawed. The sauce can be stored in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before gently reheating on the stove, whisking to regain the creamy consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this creamy dish with a side of fluffy rice or buttered noodles to soak up the delicious sauce. If you're looking for lighter options, consider serving it over quinoa or a bed of fresh greens. The brightness of a simple salad with a vinaigrette can balance the richness of the chicken, creating a well-rounded meal.

For a more indulgent experience, serve with crusty bread on the side. Not only does it complement the dish, but it also enhances the eating experience, allowing you to savor every bit of that creamy lemon sauce. A sprinkle of extra fresh parsley or a zest of lemon on top before serving adds a beautiful touch and an enticing aroma.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or green beans.

→ Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream for a lighter version.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components in advance, but it's best to combine them and heat just before serving to keep the textures fresh.