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 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup sour cream; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; 2 cups mixed vegetables (like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple Kitchen

I absolutely adore this Creamy Lemon Chicken with Vegetables recipe! It combines the zesty brightness of lemon with the creaminess of a rich sauce, making it a delightful dish that always impresses my family and friends. What I love most about it is how versatile it is; I can easily swap in whatever vegetables I have on hand. The combination of tender chicken and fresh produce coated in that creamy lemon sauce is simply irresistible. Plus, it comes together quickly, making it a perfect weeknight dinner!

Created by

Gemma Hollis

Last updated on 2026-02-10T18:21:36.374Z

When I first experimented with this dish, I was trying to create something light yet satisfying. The secret to the creamy texture lies in a combination of sour cream and chicken broth, which meld beautifully to create a sauce that clings to the chicken and vegetables. The acid from the lemon lifts the flavors into something truly special!

As I made this dish repeatedly, I discovered that adding vegetables like asparagus and bell peppers not only enhances the color but also adds layers of flavor and crunch. Completing the meal with a sprinkle of fresh herbs elevates it even further. I can’t wait for you to try it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright, zesty flavor from fresh lemon enhances the chicken beautifully.
Creamy texture that elevates simple ingredients into a gourmet meal.
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Choosing the Right Vegetables

When making Creamy Lemon Chicken with Vegetables, the choice of vegetables can greatly influence the dish's overall flavor and texture. My go-to mix includes bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots, but feel free to experiment with other options like zucchini, snap peas, or asparagus. Just ensure they are cut into similar-sized pieces for even cooking, and remember that firmer vegetables may take a bit longer to sauté. I recommend using fresh vegetables as they provide the best taste and texture, but frozen can work in a pinch. Just add them to the skillet a little earlier to ensure they're properly warmed through.

For those looking to incorporate seasonal produce, this recipe is highly adaptable. In spring, try adding peas or asparagus, while in fall, root vegetables like sweet potatoes and butternut squash can add heartiness. Keep in mind that denser vegetables may need additional cooking time, so adjust your sautéing duration accordingly. Just keep an eye on them; you want them tender yet still bright in color and not mushy.

Perfecting the Creamy Sauce

The creamy sauce is the centerpiece of this dish, enhancing the lemony flavor while keeping the chicken moist and tender. Using sour cream in the sauce not only adds creaminess but also a slight tang that balances the brightness of the lemon. If you don’t have sour cream, Greek yogurt can serve as a substitute, although it may alter the flavor slightly. Whisk the sour cream into the chicken broth over low heat to prevent curdling; you want a smooth, glossy sauce rather than a lumpy texture.

To elevate the sauce further, consider adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or dried herbs like thyme or oregano. These add depth without overwhelming the lemon essence. If the sauce gets too thick, simply thin it out with a splash of white wine or additional chicken broth. When simmering the chicken in the sauce, make sure to coat each piece thoroughly, allowing it to soak in those delicious flavors for about 3-4 minutes.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before starting:

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup sour cream
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
2 cups mixed vegetables (like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Ensure all ingredients are prepped and ready before you begin cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare the dish:

Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium 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 cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Cook the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the mixed vegetables and sauté for 5-7 minutes until tender. You may add a bit of salt and pepper to taste.

Make the Creamy Sauce

Lower the heat and pour in the chicken broth and sour cream. Stir in the lemon juice and zest, mixing until the sauce is smooth and heated through.

Combine and Serve

Return the chicken to the skillet and let it simmer in the sauce for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your deliciously creamy lemon chicken!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. This can elevate the flavor profile and give it a nice warmth.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the Creamy Lemon Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the creaminess of the sauce during storage, it’s best to keep the sauce separate if you know you won’t finish it all. Reheating can be done on the stovetop over low heat, gently stirring to avoid breaking the sauce. If reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge before warming up on the stove.

To freeze the dish, portion it into individual servings and use freezer-safe containers. It can last up to three months in the freezer. However, the texture of the sauce may change when frozen, so consider freezing the chicken and sauce separately, if possible, to help preserve their quality.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Creamy Lemon Chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or couscous to soak up the delightful sauce. Alternatively, for a low-carb option, consider pairing with cauliflower rice or steamed quinoa for an added protein boost. I also love adding a side of crusty bread, perfect for scooping up those luscious sauce remnants on the plate.

For a final touch, a sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also a bright pop of fresh flavor that complements the lemon. You can also serve it with a simple green salad dressed in vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. This dish makes for an easy centerpiece on your dinner table, rich in flavor yet uncomplicated enough to prepare any night of the week.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any seasonal vegetables you prefer or have on hand.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a few hours in advance and reheat it gently before serving.

→ Is there a substitute for sour cream?

Plain Greek yogurt is a great alternative that will still give you that creamy texture.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This creamy lemon chicken pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or even a light salad.