Print

Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken: A Delightful Family Dish

Pan-seared chicken breasts smothered in a rich, tangy lemon Parmesan cream sauce with garlic and herbs. Elegant enough for company but easy enough for weeknights!

  • Author: ranime
  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 20 mins
  • Total Time: 35 mins
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
  • 1 tsp salt, divided
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 3 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prep Chicken: Pound chicken to even thickness (3/4-inch). Season with 1/2 tsp salt and pepper. Dredge in flour, shaking off excess.
  2. Sear Chicken: Heat 2 tbsp oil in large skillet over medium-high. Cook chicken 4-5 minutes per side until golden. Transfer to plate.
  3. Make Sauce: Add remaining 1 tbsp oil to skillet. Sauté garlic 30 seconds until fragrant. Whisk in broth, scraping up browned bits.
  4. Simmer: Stir in cream, Parmesan, lemon zest/juice, Dijon, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and remaining 1/2 tsp salt. Simmer 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
  5. Finish: Return chicken to skillet, spooning sauce over top. Cook 2-3 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. Serve: Garnish with parsley. Serve with pasta or crusty bread.

Notes

  • For extra sauce: Double cream and Parmesan (great for pasta).
  • Lighter option: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
  • Storage: Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days (sauce thickens when cold).
  • No waste: Use leftover lemon halves to deglaze pan before adding broth.

Nutrition