Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make – This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Incredibly flavorful – The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and lemon creates a bold, creamy sauce.
• Versatile – Serve it with pasta, rice, or roasted veggies for a complete meal.
• Restaurant-quality at home – Skip takeout and make this creamy, indulgent dish right in your kitchen.

Ingredients

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

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Creamy Lemon Herb Parmesan Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Directions

1. Season and Cook the Chicken

• Pat the chicken breasts dry and season them with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken and set aside.

2. Make the Creamy Lemon Herb Sauce

• In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
• Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and zest. Mix well until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
• Add dried parsley, basil, and oregano. Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer gently for 2-3 minutes.

3. Combine and Serve

• Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy lemon herb sauce over the top. Let the chicken warm through for 1-2 minutes.
• Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Pair with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
• Low-Carb Option – Serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of pasta.
• Extra Cheesy – Stir in an additional ¼ cup of Parmesan for a richer, cheesier sauce.
• Fresh Herbs – If you have fresh basil, oregano, or parsley, use them instead of dried herbs for a more vibrant flavor.
• Mushroom Addition – Sauté some mushrooms with the garlic for an extra layer of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing – The sauce may separate slightly when frozen, but you can store the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Reheating – Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work great and add extra juiciness to the dish.

2. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Heavy cream gives the best texture, but you can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version. The sauce may be thinner, so you can add a bit of cornstarch if needed.

3. What’s the best way to ensure the chicken stays juicy?

Avoid overcooking! Use a meat thermometer and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Cook the chicken and sauce separately, then reheat them together before serving.

5. What sides pair well with this dish?

Pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables complement the creamy sauce perfectly.

6. How can I make the sauce thicker?

Let it simmer a bit longer, or add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a little water to thicken it.

7. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Absolutely! Use three times the amount of fresh herbs since dried herbs are more concentrated.

8. Is this dish keto-friendly?

Yes! Just serve it with a low-carb side like cauliflower rice or steamed greens.

9. What type of Parmesan cheese is best?

Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and gives the best flavor, but pre-grated works in a pinch.

10. Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Yes! Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms would be great additions to the sauce.

Conclusion

Creamy Lemon Herb Parmesan Chicken is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich, tangy sauce and juicy chicken, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Try it tonight and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your home!