Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken Skillet

why make this recipe

This dish gives you a rich, bright sauce and tender chicken in one pan. It cooks fast and feels special enough for guests. It uses simple ingredients you may already have. You can also check a similar detailed page for ideas at Creamy Parmesan Lemon Chicken recipe.

introduction

Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken Skillet is a quick and tasty meal. The sauce is creamy with lemon and parmesan. The chicken stays juicy when you sear it first. You finish the dish in the same pan to keep the flavors.

how to make Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken Skillet

1. Season the chicken on both sides with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken 5 to 6 minutes per side until golden, then remove it from the pan.
3. Lower the heat and add butter. Sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds.
4. Pour in chicken broth and scrape the pan to lift browned bits. Add heavy cream and simmer gently.
5. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and grated parmesan. Stir until the sauce is smooth and thick.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer 5 minutes, spooning sauce over the chicken. Taste and adjust salt or pepper.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Ingredients :

• 4 chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions :

• Season 4 chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and 1 tsp Italian seasoning on both sides.
• Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then sear chicken for 5 to 6 minutes per side until golden and remove.
• Lower heat and add 2 tbsp butter, then sauté 4 cloves minced garlic for 30 seconds.
• Pour in 1 cup chicken broth, scraping the pan, then add 1 cup heavy cream and simmer gently.
• Stir in 2 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp lemon zest, and 1 cup grated parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth and thick.
• Return chicken to skillet and simmer for 5 minutes, spooning sauce over chicken and adjust seasoning if needed.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
• Tips include using freshly grated parmesan and simmering gently for best texture.

how to serve Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken Skillet

Serve the chicken over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. It also goes well with steamed vegetables or a green salad. Spoon extra sauce over the chicken and starch for best flavor.

how to store Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken Skillet

Let the dish cool to room temperature. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on low heat and add a splash of cream or broth if the sauce is too thick. You can freeze for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.

tips to make Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken Skillet

• Use freshly grated parmesan for a better, smoother sauce.
• Simmer the sauce gently. High heat can make it break or get grainy.
• Do not crowd the pan when searing the chicken. Work in batches if needed.
• Bring chicken to room temperature for more even cooking.
• Taste the sauce before serving and add more lemon or salt if needed.

variation (if any)

• Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for more fat and flavor.
• Add mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for extra veg.
• Stir in sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist.
• Make it lighter by using half-and-half instead of heavy cream, but cook gently.

FAQs

Q: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
A: Milk is thinner. The sauce will be less rich. Use half-and-half or add a little flour to thicken if you only have milk.

Q: How do I know the chicken is done?
A: The chicken is done when the center reaches 165°F (74°C) or when juices run clear. Cut one piece to check if you do not have a thermometer.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes. Cook the chicken and sauce, then cool and store in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving.

Q: Can I use pre-grated parmesan?
A: You can, but pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly. Freshly grated parmesan gives the best texture.

Q: Is there a gluten-free option?
A: The recipe is naturally gluten-free if your chicken broth and parmesan have no additives with gluten. Check labels to be sure.

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