There is nothing quite like a dish that brightens your dinner table and lifts your spirits at the same time, and that is exactly what this Lemon Chicken Limone Recipe does. This recipe features tender chicken cutlets drenched in a luxuriously creamy, tangy lemon sauce, bringing together vibrant citrus flavors and silky textures in a way that feels both comforting and elegant. Whether you’re cooking a weeknight meal or impressing guests, this dish is a straightforward yet show-stopping delight that showcases how simple ingredients can deliver a sensational taste experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Lemon Chicken Limone Recipe lies in its simplicity, using everyday ingredients that build layers of flavor and color. Each element plays a vital role, from the seasoning that crusts the chicken to the creamy lemon sauce that follows.
- Chicken breast cutlets: Tender and quick-cooking, they form the perfect base for the sauce.
- All-purpose flour: Used for dredging, it creates a delicate crust that helps seal in juices.
- Sea salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the dish.
- Garlic powder: Adds subtle savory depth to the flour coating.
- Ground black pepper: Provides a gentle warmth and spice balance.
- Paprika: Brings a hint of smokiness and a lovely golden hue.
- Salted butter: For richness and a silky finish to the sauce.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Adds fruitiness and helps achieve the perfect sear.
- Garlic cloves: Fresh and fragrant, they infuse the sauce with aromatic complexity.
- Dry white wine: A bright acidic lift that deglazes the pan and deepens flavor.
- Chicken broth or stock: Provides body and savory balance for the sauce.
- Lemons: Both zest and juice bring vibrant citrus brightness that defines this dish.
- Heavy cream: Rounds out the sauce with a velvety texture and mellow tang.
- Optional fresh parsley: For a pop of fresh color and herbal lift at the end.
- Optional lemon wedges: Perfect for extra zing on the side.
How to Make Lemon Chicken Limone Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken
First, create a flavorful coating by whisking together flour, salt, garlic powder, black pepper, and paprika in a shallow bowl. This seasoned flour not only adds taste but also helps develop that beautiful golden crust on your chicken cutlets. Lightly dredge each cutlet in the mixture, shaking off any excess to avoid clumping.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken Cutlets
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt 2 tablespoons of butter with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken in a single layer, ensuring each cutlet sears evenly. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until the chicken is lightly browned and cooked through. Then, transfer the cutlets to a plate to rest while you build the luscious sauce.
Step 3: Build the Flavorful Sauce
Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to your skillet, then toss in the minced garlic. Sauté just until fragrant and golden, making sure not to burn it. Pour in the dry white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up all those flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom. Allow the wine to reduce for 3 to 5 minutes, concentrating the flavors beautifully.
Step 4: Simmer with Broth and Lemon
Stir in the chicken broth followed by the freshly squeezed lemon juice. Let the mixture simmer gently for around 3 minutes, so all the flavors meld perfectly, and the sauce starts to thicken slightly.
Step 5: Finish the Sauce and Combine
Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the last tablespoon of butter until melted. Now, whisk in the heavy cream, which adds a dreamy smoothness and balances the vibrant lemon acidity. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Return the seared chicken cutlets to the skillet and let them simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to soak up the sauce and for it to thicken further.
Step 6: The Final Touch
Just before serving, sprinkle the pan with fresh lemon zest and chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness that brightens every bite. Your stunning Lemon Chicken Limone Recipe is ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Lemon Chicken Limone Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing is where you can add some personality. A handful of freshly chopped parsley not only looks beautiful but adds a subtle herbal note that complements the lemon perfectly. A few lemon wedges served alongside invite everyone to add a little extra citrus zing, making each bite as vibrant as you like.
Side Dishes
Because the sauce is rich and creamy with bright citrus notes, pairing this dish with lighter sides is ideal. Think fluffy white rice or buttery mashed potatoes to soak up the sauce, or steamed asparagus and green beans for a crisp, fresh contrast. Roasted vegetables like zucchini or cherry tomatoes also work wonderfully to balance the richness while adding color to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant presentation, try plating each chicken cutlet on a bed of creamy polenta or alongside risotto. Drizzle extra sauce over the top and finish with a sprig of fresh herbs. If you want a casual style, serve family-style in the skillet, placing the chicken cutlets nestled in the luscious sauce, inviting everyone to help themselves. Whichever way, the vibrant colors and inviting aromas will have guests eager to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover lemon chicken limone can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce might thicken as it cools, so when you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply warm it gently to restore its creamy texture.
Freezing
If you want to keep this delicious dish longer, freezing is an option. Place the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Be sure to cool completely before freezing to retain the best flavor and texture.
Reheating
For reheating, thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator, then warm gently in a skillet over low heat. Stir occasionally to keep the sauce smooth and creamy, and avoid overheating, which can cause the cream to separate. A quick splash of broth or cream can help restore the sauce’s perfect consistency.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast cutlets?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully and bring a bit more juiciness and flavor, though cooking times might need to be adjusted slightly to ensure they’re fully cooked.
What type of white wine is best for this recipe?
A dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio is ideal because it adds bright acidity without overwhelming the delicate lemon flavor of the dish.
Is there a non-dairy substitute for the heavy cream?
You can try coconut cream or cashew cream as a dairy-free alternative. Keep in mind this will alter the flavor slightly, adding a subtle coconut or nutty note to your sauce.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour for dredging the chicken, and ensure your broth and other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
What should I serve with Lemon Chicken Limone for a complete meal?
Pair it with a fresh green salad and your favorite carb such as rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the wonderful sauce for a well-rounded, satisfying meal.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Chicken Limone Recipe is a true gem that deserves a spot in your recipe collection. It’s bright, comforting, and elegantly creamy all at once, making it a perfect choice for busy nights when you want something quick but impressive. Give it a try—you’ll soon find it becoming a favorite go-to dish you love to share with friends and family!
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Lemon Chicken Limone Recipe
Chicken Limone is a bright and creamy lemon chicken dish featuring tender chicken breast cutlets cooked to golden perfection and served in a silky lemony sauce. This quick and flavorful recipe combines garlic, white wine, chicken broth, and fresh lemon zest and juice for a dinner that bursts with real citrus flavor, perfect for an easy weeknight meal.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 chicken breast cutlets
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
Sauce & Cooking
- 3 tablespoons salted butter
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup dry white wine
- ½ cup chicken broth or stock
- Zest and juice of 2 small lemons
- ½ cup heavy cream
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the Flour Mixture: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, garlic powder, ground black pepper, and paprika. This seasoned flour will coat the chicken, adding flavor and helping achieve a golden crust.
- Dredge the Chicken: Lightly dredge each chicken breast cutlet in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring each side is coated. Shake off any excess flour for even cooking and to prevent clumping.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat a large 12-inch skillet over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of butter and 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Once hot, place the chicken cutlets in a single layer, cooking in batches if necessary. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until lightly browned and cooked through. Transfer each batch to a plate when done.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the hot skillet. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and just beginning to turn golden, taking care not to burn the garlic.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the dry white wine to deglaze the skillet, scraping up all the browned bits stuck to the bottom. Let the wine simmer for 3 to 5 minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate its flavor.
- Add Broth and Lemon Juice: Stir in the chicken broth and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 3 minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce begins to develop.
- Incorporate Butter and Cream: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter until melted and smooth. Then slowly add the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Season the sauce to taste with additional salt and pepper if desired.
- Reintroduce Chicken: Return the cooked chicken cutlets to the skillet. Let them simmer in the sauce for 2 to 3 minutes to reheat and slightly thicken the sauce, ensuring the chicken absorbs the lemony flavor.
- Finish and Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the lemon zest and chopped fresh parsley over the chicken for brightness and color. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for extra citrus zing.
Notes
- Use small lemons for a more intense lemon flavor from zest and juice.
- White wine is key for deglazing; a dry variety like Sauvignon Blanc works best.
- Cook chicken in batches if your skillet isn’t large enough to avoid overcrowding for a crisp crust.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper after adding the cream to balance flavors.
- Garnish with parsley and lemon wedges to enhance freshness and presentation.
- Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
- Serving suggestion: pairs nicely with rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American