Summer Chicken With Peas
A vibrant summer chicken dish featuring tender chicken, fresh peas, and herbs in a creamy lemon sauce, perfect for light, flavorful family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a large skillet.
- Add chicken pieces and small new potatoes; brown on all sides.
- Sprinkle salt and pepper over chicken and potatoes.
- Sprinkle chicken with lemon juice, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Add sliced green onions to the skillet with butter.
- Sprinkle peas and chopped parsley over chicken and potatoes.
- Cover and simmer for an additional 10 minutes or until chicken and potatoes are cooked through.
- Remove chicken and vegetables to a serving platter and keep warm.
- Remove skillet from heat.
- Add sour cream, dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper to the skillet.
- Stir well to mix with pan drippings and create a sauce.
- Pour sauce over the chicken or serve alongside as a flavorful accompaniment.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using herbed butter or adding garlic to the skillet with the chicken. If fresh peas are unavailable, frozen peas work perfectly as a substitute. You can also swap new potatoes for baby Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture. Adjust the seasoning by adding a pinch of smoked paprika for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
This Summer Chicken with Peas dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or steamed asparagus for a refreshing meal. Consider serving it alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a complete dinner, complement it with a glass of chilled white wine, making it perfect for summer gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Summer Chicken With Peas contains roughly 1283 calories, with 13g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 119g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (61% of the Daily Value), iron (44% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (34% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2017mg per serving (88% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use skinless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use skinless chicken pieces; however, the skin adds flavor and moisture during cooking. If you opt for skinless, consider marinating the chicken in lemon juice and herbs for extra flavor before cooking.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
If you prefer a lighter option, Greek yogurt can be used in place of sour cream without sacrificing creaminess. Additionally, for a dairy-free alternative, try using coconut cream or a dairy-free sour cream substitute.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) using a meat thermometer. The juices should run clear, and the meat should no longer be pink. Cooking times may vary based on the size of the pieces, so check accordingly.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).