Description
Creamy Lemon Chicken features tender pan-seared chicken breasts bathed in a luscious, tangy lemon-garlic cream sauce enriched with Parmesan cheese. This comforting dish blends the brightness of fresh lemon with rich cream and garlic, creating a delightful meal perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides to taste. Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sear the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the hot buttered skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove the chicken and set aside on a plate.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream, then stir in the lemon juice and zest, allowing the mixture to come to a gentle simmer.
- Thicken the Sauce: Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the simmering cream mixture, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes creamy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Finish the Dish: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy lemon sauce over them. Let the chicken warm through in the sauce for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra zest, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for mild heat.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best bright flavor.
- Chicken thickness affects cooking time; ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- To make it gluten free, ensure the Parmesan cheese is certified gluten free.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
