Garlic Lemon Chicken with Cream Sauce, Rice & Greens
A comforting yet fresh Mediterranean-style dinner featuring tender garlic-lemon chicken in a silky cream sauce, served with fluffy rice and vibrant greens. It’s non-spicy, balanced, and perfect for weeknight meals or elegant plating for your website.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Serves: 2–3
Ingredients
For the Garlic Lemon Chicken
2 medium chicken breasts, sliced lengthwise
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of ½–1 lemon (to taste)
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Cream Sauce
¾ cup heavy cream (or light cream)
¼ cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
For the Rice
1 cup cooked white or brown rice
Salt, to taste
For the Greens
2 cups spinach, kale, or green beans
1 teaspoon olive oil
Pinch of salt
Instructions
1. Cook the Chicken
Season chicken with salt and black pepper.
Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat.
Sear chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
Remove chicken and set aside.
2. Make the Garlic Lemon Cream Sauce
In the same skillet, add garlic and saute 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add lemon zest, lemon juice, chicken broth, and cream.
Simmer 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Stir in Parmesan and Dijon (if using). Adjust seasoning.
3. Combine
Return chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over it.
Simmer 2–3 minutes until well coated and glossy.
4. Prepare Rice & Greens
Warm cooked rice and season lightly with salt.
Saute greens with olive oil and a pinch of salt for 2–3 minutes until just wilted.
5. Serve
Plate rice, top with garlic lemon chicken and cream sauce.
Add greens on the side.
Optional garnish: fresh parsley or extra lemon zest.
Tips for Best Results
Slice chicken evenly for quick, juicy cooking.
Add lemon juice gradually to control brightness.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dairy-light?
Yes—use half-and-half or evaporated milk and reduce Parmesan slightly.
Can I swap rice?
Absolutely. Serve with quinoa, couscous, or mashed potatoes.
Is this meal-prep friendly?
Yes. Store components separately and reheat gently.
What greens work best?
Spinach, kale, broccoli rabe, or green beans all pair well.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 520 kcal
Protein: 38 g
Carbohydrates: 42 g
Fat: 22 g
Fiber: 5 g
Sugar: 3 g