Creamy Lemon Butter Chicken & Zucchini

If you’re craving a dinner that feels luxurious, comforting, and restaurant-worthy, yet still quick enough for a busy weeknight, this creamy lemon butter chicken & zucchini is the answer. Tender pan-seared chicken breasts simmered in a silky lemon butter cream sauce with perfectly cooked zucchini create a dish that’s bright, rich, and deeply satisfying all at once.

This recipe strikes the perfect balance between fresh citrus flavor and indulgent creaminess. The lemon cuts through the butter and cream, keeping the sauce light and vibrant instead of heavy. Zucchini adds a tender, slightly sweet contrast that soaks up the sauce beautifully, making every bite irresistible.

Best of all, this is a one-pan meal. That means fewer dishes, faster cleanup, and maximum flavor concentrated in a single skillet.

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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Lemon Chicken

This dish isn’t just delicious—it’s practical, adaptable, and guaranteed to become a repeat favorite.

• One-pan recipe: Minimal cleanup
• 30-minute dinner: Perfect for weeknights
• Balanced flavors: Creamy, buttery, fresh, and savory
• Low-carb friendly: Naturally lighter without sacrificing flavor
• Versatile: Easy to customize with different vegetables or proteins

Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or just yourself, this creamy lemon butter chicken delivers comfort and elegance in equal measure.

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Ingredients

Chicken & Vegetables

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Creamy Lemon Butter Sauce

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Pat chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken and sear for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet.
5. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
7. Stir in heavy cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Simmer for 3–4 minutes.
8. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce thickens slightly.
9. Add zucchini slices and cook for 4–5 minutes until just tender.
10. Return chicken to the skillet, spooning sauce over the top.
11. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until everything is heated through.
12. Garnish with parsley and extra lemon zest before serving.

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Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Lemon Sauce

• Use fresh lemon juice: Bottled juice won’t give the same brightness.
• Don’t overcook zucchini: Slightly tender keeps it vibrant and fresh.
• Grate your own Parmesan: It melts smoother and tastes better.
• Let the sauce simmer gently: Avoid boiling to prevent curdling.

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Variations & Substitutions

Garlic Lemon Butter Chicken

Add an extra clove or two of garlic for a bold, savory punch.

Creamy Lemon Chicken Thighs

Swap breasts for boneless chicken thighs for extra juiciness.

Dairy-Free Option

Use coconut cream and dairy-free butter for a lactose-free version.

Add More Veggies

Spinach, mushrooms, or asparagus work beautifully in this sauce.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve creamy lemon butter chicken & zucchini with:

• Garlic mashed potatoes
• Steamed rice or risotto
• Buttered pasta
• Cauliflower rice for a low-carb option

Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

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Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently: Warm on the stovetop over low heat.
• Avoid high heat: Prevents sauce separation.

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Flavor Profile Breakdown

• Butter: Rich, silky base
• Lemon: Bright, fresh acidity
• Cream: Smooth, luxurious texture
• Garlic & Parmesan: Savory depth
• Zucchini: Mild sweetness and balance

This harmony of flavors is what makes this dish truly unforgettable.

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Why This Recipe Works

The secret lies in layering flavors: searing the chicken builds depth, deglazing the pan captures flavor, and gently simmering the sauce creates a perfectly balanced finish. The zucchini absorbs the lemon butter sauce, making it just as crave-worthy as the chicken itself.