Imagine a dish so irresistibly creamy and bursting with bright, zesty flavors that it transforms an ordinary weeknight dinner into a gourmet experience. This Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken with Asparagus is not just a meal; it's a culinary journey that combines tender, golden-brown chicken, crisp asparagus, and a luxurious sauce that will have everyone at your table begging for seconds. In just 30 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-worthy dish that looks and tastes like you've spent hours in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup asparagus, trimmed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by patting chicken thighs dry with paper towels and seasoning both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place chicken thighs in the pan.
- Cook chicken for approximately 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove chicken from skillet and set aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic. Sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Pour in heavy cream and lemon juice, stirring to combine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Add trimmed asparagus to the creamy sauce and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
- Return chicken thighs to the skillet, spooning sauce over them to reheat and coat evenly.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or lemon zest if desired. Serve immediately while hot, with sauce drizzled over chicken and asparagus.
Tips
- Pat chicken thighs completely dry before seasoning to ensure a perfect golden-brown sear.
- Use a meat thermometer to check chicken's internal temperature - 165°F (74°C) is the sweet spot for perfectly cooked chicken.
- Don't rush the garlic sautéing process - 30-45 seconds is key to releasing its aromatic flavors without burning.
- For extra richness, use fresh, high-quality heavy cream and freshly squeezed lemon juice.
- Keep asparagus crisp by cooking it briefly - 3-4 minutes maintains its vibrant green color and tender-crisp texture.
- Let the chicken rest for a minute after cooking to help retain its juices and ensure maximum tenderness.
- Optional garnishes like fresh parsley or lemon zest can elevate the dish's presentation and add an extra layer of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 333kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 27g
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 113mg
