Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy and Rich: The Parmesan cream sauce is rich and indulgent, while the lemon adds a bright, zesty twist.
Simple Ingredients: Made with basic pantry staples like chicken, cream, and Parmesan, this dish is easy to prepare but tastes gourmet.
Quick and Easy: It’s a one-pan dish that comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
Flavorful: The combination of garlic, lemon, and Parmesan creates a savory, balanced sauce that perfectly complements the chicken.

Ingredients

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

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Lower the heat to medium. Add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, and dried thyme or Italian seasoning (if using). Stir and bring to a simmer, cooking for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over them. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the chicken to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
Serve: Plate the chicken, spoon the creamy lemon Parmesan sauce over the top, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve with your favorite sides, such as rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Add Veggies: Add spinach, mushrooms, or asparagus to the sauce for more flavor and nutrients.
Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
Use Chicken Thighs: Substitute chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful option.
Gluten-Free: This dish is naturally gluten-free, but be sure to check that your Parmesan cheese is gluten-free if you’re concerned about cross-contamination.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This dish doesn’t freeze well due to the cream-based sauce, as it may separate when reheated.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. If reheating on the stovetop, add a little extra cream or chicken broth to prevent the sauce from thickening too much.

FAQs

Can I use light cream instead of heavy cream?

Yes, you can use light cream or half-and-half, but the sauce won’t be as rich and creamy as with heavy cream.

Can I use fresh Parmesan instead of pre-grated?

Absolutely! Freshly grated Parmesan will give you a more flavorful and authentic result. Just be sure to grate it finely so it melts smoothly into the sauce.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can cook the cream for a few extra minutes to reduce it further, or you can add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water to help thicken the sauce.

Conclusion

Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken is a delightful dish that’s as elegant as it is easy to prepare. The rich, creamy Parmesan sauce with the bright, tangy lemon flavor complements the tender chicken perfectly, creating a meal that’s both comforting and refreshing. Serve this dish with your favorite sides and enjoy a simple yet sophisticated dinner any night of the week.