Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20–30 minutes with minimal prep.
One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup required.
Flavorful Sauce: A creamy, zesty sauce that complements the chicken perfectly.
Versatile Pairings: Pairs well with pasta, rice, or steamed

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
¾ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon dried basil (optional)
1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon slices (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Sear Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add chicken broth, heavy cream, parmesan cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, basil, and thyme. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Let the sauce simmer for 3–5 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some sauce over the top. Simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes to heat the chicken through.
Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon slices. Serve over pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15–20 minutes
Total time: 20–25

Variations

Add Vegetables: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes into the sauce for added flavor and texture.
Use Chicken Thighs: Substitute chicken breasts with boneless, skinless thighs for a juicier option.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat.
Low-Carb Option: Serve the chicken over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a low-carb meal.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the sauce’s

FAQs

Can I use pre-grated parmesan cheese?

Freshly grated parmesan melts better and provides a smoother sauce. Pre-grated cheese may not melt as well and can affect the sauce’s texture.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream or a plant-based cream substitute and a dairy-free parmesan alternative.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, but bone-in chicken will require a longer cooking time. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

The sauce is best prepared fresh, as reheating may cause the cream to

What can I serve with this dish?

This chicken pairs well with pasta, rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Can I add capers to the sauce?

Yes, adding capers can introduce a briny flavor that complements the lemon and parmesan.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half can be used, but the sauce may be less rich and creamy.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

It’s best to prepare this dish fresh, as the sauce’s texture may change upon reheating.

Conclusion

Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the richness of cream with the brightness of lemon and the savory depth of parmesan. Its quick preparation and versatile pairings make it a perfect choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. With its simple ingredients and bold flavors, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.