Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken with Asparagus (30 Minutes!)

Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken with Asparagus is a quick, flavorful, and healthy weeknight dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes. Juicy chicken breasts are enveloped in a tangy lemon garlic cream sauce, paired with tender, crisp asparagus for a balanced, satisfying dish. With just one pan, this recipe is simple to make and requires minimal cleanup, making it perfect for busy evenings.

The bright lemon flavor cuts through the richness of the cream, while garlic and Parmesan add depth and savory warmth. It’s keto-friendly with only 7g net carbs per serving, but even if you’re not following a low-carb lifestyle, the combination of flavors and textures makes it irresistible.

This dish is versatile enough to serve for family dinners, casual weeknights, or even a low-effort date-night meal. Every bite delivers the perfect harmony of creamy, tangy, and savory notes with tender asparagus adding freshness and crunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in under 30 minutes for quick weeknight meals
• One-pan preparation for easy cooking and cleanup
• Low-carb, keto-friendly, and nutrient-dense
• Bright lemon flavor balances creamy richness perfectly
• Can be easily doubled for meal prep or larger families
• Beginner-friendly with straightforward steps

Recipe Overview

Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: chicken, healthy, keto
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories per serving: 607 kcal

Ingredients Breakdown

Chicken

• 4 medium chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon each crushed red pepper, salt, and pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Vegetables

• 1 pound asparagus, trimmed and cut into thirds
• 1/2 cup onion, minced
• 3–4 cloves garlic, minced

Sauce

• 2 tablespoons butter, divided
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (optional)

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Season 4 chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, salt, and pepper. Ensure each piece is coated evenly to develop flavor while cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add 1 tablespoon olive oil to a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook 5–6 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook Asparagus and Onion

In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons butter, the minced onion, and trimmed asparagus. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the asparagus is just tender and onions are softened.

Step 4: Add Garlic

Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for just under a minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

Step 5: Make the Cream Sauce

Stir in 1 cup heavy cream, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, and 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (if using). Mix well to combine.

Step 6: Return Chicken and Simmer

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and let everything simmer for 3–4 minutes until the sauce has thickened. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. If the sauce is too thick, add 1/4 cup water, chicken stock, or broth to achieve desired consistency.

Step 7: Serve

Serve immediately, spooning sauce and asparagus over the chicken. Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh parsley if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Add Heat: Increase crushed red pepper for more spice.
• Low-Carb/Keto-Friendly: Already keto-approved, skip Parmesan if dairy-free.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh, cook slightly longer.
• Extra Veggies: Add broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers for more fiber and color.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare chicken in advance; assemble sauce and vegetables when ready to serve.

Flavor Profile

• Creamy and Tangy: Lemon and cream balance each other perfectly
• Savory and Aromatic: Garlic, onion, and Parmesan add depth
• Bright and Fresh: Asparagus provides a crisp, vegetal contrast
• Lightly Spicy: Crushed red pepper adds a gentle warmth

This combination delivers a well-rounded flavor profile that’s satisfying without being heavy.

Nutritional Overview

Per serving (1/4 of dish):

• Calories: 607 kcal
• Protein: 55 g
• Carbohydrates: 10 g (7 g net carbs)
• Fat: 39 g
• Saturated Fat: 20 g
• Cholesterol: 245 mg
• Sodium: 546 mg
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Vitamin A: 2040 IU
• Vitamin C: 14 mg
• Calcium: 176 mg
• Iron: 4 mg

Dietary Notes:

• Keto-friendly
• Low-carb
• Gluten-free
• Nut-free

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Chicken Prep: Season and cook chicken ahead of time, store in refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Vegetables: Chop asparagus and onions in advance.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the cream sauce.

Storage:

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing is not recommended due to cream-based sauce separation.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless thighs can be used. They may take slightly longer to cook and offer a richer flavor.

Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. Simmer slightly longer to thicken.

Can I use frozen asparagus?

Yes, thaw and drain well. Cook a little longer as frozen asparagus releases water.

How do I prevent sauce from curdling?

Keep the skillet at medium heat and stir continuously when adding cream and lemon juice. Avoid rapid boiling.

Is this recipe suitable for keto or low-carb diets?

Yes, it’s keto-friendly with only 7 g net carbs per serving.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Task	Time
Prep	5 minutes
Cook Chicken	12 minutes
Cook Veggies & Sauce	8 minutes
Simmer Together	3–4 minutes
Total	~30 minutes

Serving Suggestions

Serve hot with sauce spooned over the chicken and asparagus. Optional garnishes include extra Parmesan or chopped parsley. Pair with a light side salad or cauliflower rice for a low-carb complete meal.

Recipe Variations

1. Creamy Garlic Shrimp: Substitute chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist.
2. Vegetable Medley: Add zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for more color and nutrients.
3. Herb Boost: Add fresh thyme or basil for added fragrance.
4. Spicy Kick: Drizzle sriracha or add crushed red pepper flakes for more heat.

Ingredient Spotlight

Asparagus

Choose firm, bright green stalks with closed tips. Trim woody ends and cut into thirds for even cooking. Quick-cooking vegetables retain their color, texture, and nutrients.

Lemon

Fresh lemon juice brightens and balances the richness of cream and butter. Avoid bottled lemon juice for the best flavor.

Parmesan Cheese

Adds umami and richness. Freshly grated melts smoothly into the cream sauce for a silky texture.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Cook chicken evenly without overcrowding the pan to get a golden sear.
• Don’t overcook asparagus; it should remain crisp-tender.
• Deglaze the pan with a small splash of broth or water before adding cream to incorporate browned bits.
• Taste and adjust seasoning at the end to ensure balanced flavor.

Storage & Freezing Guide

Refrigerator: Store in airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezing: Not recommended due to cream sauce separation.

Reheating: Warm gently on medium-low heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to restore sauce consistency.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	607 kcal
Protein	55 g
Carbohydrates	10 g
Fat	39 g
Fiber	3 g

Dietary Notes: Keto, low-carb, gluten-free, nut-free.

Conclusion

Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken with Asparagus is a quick, healthy, and flavorful one-pan dinner perfect for busy weeknights or special meals. With juicy chicken, tender asparagus, and a silky lemon garlic cream sauce, this dish is simple yet elegant.

Its balanced flavors, low-carb profile, and one-pan preparation make it a go-to recipe for anyone seeking a wholesome, satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Serve it with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete, nourishing dinner.

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