Creamy Lemon Chicken with Parmesan Sauce

introduction

This dish is simple, bright, and creamy. If you like chicken with lemon and cheese, try this creamy Parmesan lemon chicken recipe for an easy dinner that your family will enjoy.

why make this recipe

You can make it fast with few ingredients. The sauce is rich and tangy. It works for weeknights or a small dinner. The meal feels special but stays easy.

how to make Creamy Lemon Chicken with Parmesan Sauce

Start by seasoning and browning the chicken. Make the sauce in the same pan to keep the flavor. Add cream, Parmesan, lemon, and herbs. Put the chicken back in the sauce to finish. The full steps are in the Directions section.

Ingredients :

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• Lemon slices, for garnish

Directions :

1. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet.
6. Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the heavy cream. Stir to combine, then add the Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, and dried thyme. Stir well until the sauce is smooth and heated through.
7. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the chicken is heated through and fully coated with the sauce.
8. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and lemon slices before serving.

how to serve Creamy Lemon Chicken with Parmesan Sauce

Serve hot over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. You can also serve with steamed vegetables or a green salad. Spoon extra sauce over the chicken and sides.

how to store Creamy Lemon Chicken with Parmesan Sauce

Cool the chicken and sauce to room temperature. Put in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

tips to make Creamy Lemon Chicken with Parmesan Sauce

• Pat chicken dry for a good sear.
• Use fresh lemon zest for the best flavor.
• Grate fresh Parmesan instead of using pre-shredded for a smoother sauce.
• Do not boil the sauce after adding cream to avoid curdling; keep it at low heat.

variation (if any)

• Use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts for more flavor.
• Add sliced mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for extra vegetables.
• Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream to cut calories, but the sauce will be thinner.

FAQs

Q: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
A: You can, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. Add a small spoon of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken if needed.

Q: How do I know the chicken is cooked?
A: Use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). You can also cut into the thickest part to check for no pink.

Q: Can I make the sauce ahead?
A: Yes. Make the sauce and cool it, then store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently and add the cooked chicken to warm through before serving.

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