Lemon Cream Chicken
Lemon Cream Chicken offers a delightful blend of tender chicken breasts with a zesty lemon-infused cream sauce, topped with Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick yet elegant dinner, it pairs well with rice or vegetables, appealing to those who enjoy bright, savory flavors in a comforting dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pound the chicken breasts until flat.
- Brown the chicken on both sides in butter.
- Place the browned chicken into a 9 x 9-inch flat baking dish.
- Combine half and half with fresh squeezed lemon juice.
- Add salt, pepper, and grated lemon rind to the mixture.
- Pour the lemon cream mixture over the chicken.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Broil for 10 minutes or until the cheese bubbles.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the lemon cream mixture. If you're short on half and half, you can substitute with a mixture of milk and heavy cream. Ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety. This dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Lemon Cream Chicken over a bed of rice or with roasted potatoes for a hearty meal. For a refreshing side, a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the creamy sauce beautifully. This dish is also an excellent choice for impressing guests, making it a standout option among chicken recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Avoid microwaving to preserve texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Cream Chicken contains roughly 446 calories, with 25g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (55% of the Daily Value) and protein (50% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 583mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be used in place of chicken breasts. They will add a bit more flavor and moisture due to their higher fat content. Just ensure they are cooked to the appropriate internal temperature.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you don't have Parmesan cheese, you can use Pecorino Romano for a similar flavor profile. Alternatively, nutritional yeast can be used for a dairy-free option that still adds a cheesy taste to the dish.
How can I make this dish more tangy?
To enhance the tanginess of the Lemon Cream Chicken, consider increasing the amount of lemon juice used in the sauce. You can also add a splash of white wine or a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the cream mixture for a delightful depth of flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).