...
Go Back
Pan-seared Creamy Lemon Butter Chicken breasts garnished with fresh parsley and lemon slices.

Creamy Lemon Butter Chicken

A one-pan wonder featuring crispy skin, tender chicken, and a rich, velvety lemon butter sauce. Perfect for a quick, gourmet weeknight dinner that delights the whole family.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 485
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (*)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon pepper
  • 3 tablespoons salted butter (divided)
  • 3 cloves minced garlic (or 1.5 teaspoon garlic paste)
  • ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream (room temperature**)
  • ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (plus more for garnish)
  • 5 ounces baby spinach (one bag***)

Equipment

  • Oven-safe skillet
  • Tongs
  • small mixing bowl

Method
 

  1. Cook the Chicken:
  2. Make the Sauce:
  3. Bake:

Notes

Bone-in, skin-on thighs provide the best moisture. For a dairy-free alternative, use full-fat coconut milk. Always use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor. Nutrition information is estimated based on common ingredients and serving sizes and may vary.