Creamy Lemon Chicken with Parmesan Sauce
A delightful dish featuring tender chicken breasts in a rich creamy lemon sauce with Parmesan cheese, perfect for weeknight meals.
Ingredients
For the Base
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Use thighs instead of breasts for a juicier option.
- to taste Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Increase for stronger garlic flavor.
- 1 cup chicken broth Vegetable broth works in a pinch.
- 1 cup heavy cream Can substitute with half-and-half or plant-based cream.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Grate fresh for best flavor.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice Fresh juice is ideal.
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest Add for more lemon flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
To Serve
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley For garnish.
- to taste Lemon slices Optional for garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Sprinkle salt and pepper generously on both sides of the chicken breasts.
Cooking
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for approximately 6-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and fully cooked.
- Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow it to reduce a bit.
- Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, and Italian seasoning. Keep stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes until heated through and the flavors meld together.
Garnishing
- During the final minutes, sprinkle with chopped parsley and add lemon slices if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
For a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer. Fresh herbs can enhance flavor; consider basil or thyme. Serve on a large platter or individual plates.