Chicken Breast in Creamy Lemon and Cheese Sauce
This delightful chicken dish is the perfect blend of creamy textures and zesty flavors. Featuring a tender chicken breast, it's cooked to perfection with a luscious lemon and cheese sauce that tantalizes your taste buds. Perfect for a quick yet elegant dinner, this dish combines the freshness of lemon with the richness of cream and cheese, offering a mouthwatering experience. The buttery, cheesy sauce clings to the lightly pan-fried chicken, making each bite savory and satisfying. Quick and straightforward to prepare, it’s an ideal choice when you want a sumptuous meal without the hassle. Pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal. The zesty lemon balances the heaviness of the cream, creating a harmonious dish. Serve it at gatherings and watch everyone savor each flavorful bite. It’s a culinary masterpiece that brings out the best in simple ingredients.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 150 g chicken breast
- 1 lemon
- 150 ml heavy cream (36%)
- 50 g butter
- Flour (for coating)
Spices/Sauces:
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated cheese (optional)
Preparation Time
Total Time: 26 minutes
Step-by-Step Instruction
- Prepare the Chicken: Start by gently coating the chicken breast in flour, ensuring an even layer on all sides.
- Heat the Pan: Place a pan over medium heat and add the butter, allowing it to melt completely.
- Cook the Chicken: Once the butter is melted, lay the chicken breast in the pan. Fry for about 10 minutes, turning halfway so both sides are golden and cooked through.
- Remove Excess Butter: After frying, carefully pour out any leftover butter from the pan.
- Create the Sauce Base: Pour the heavy cream into the same pan, maintaining the heat to warm it through.
- Add Cheese for Flavor: Add your choice of grated cheese to the cream, stirring gently until it begins to melt into the sauce.
- Incorporate Lemon Zest: Squeeze the juice of one lemon into the creamy sauce, stirring to combine. This adds a zesty kick to the mixture.
- Simmer the Sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer gently, stirring occasionally as it thickens.
- Reduce for Thickness: Let the sauce continue to cook until it reduces and becomes rich and creamy. This should take a few minutes.
- Return Chicken to Pan: Once thickened, place the cooked chicken back into the pan, coating it thoroughly with the sauce.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings as needed, adding salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Simmer with Chicken: Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional minute to absorb the flavors.
- Ready to Serve: The dish is now ready to be plated. Ensure each piece of chicken is covered with the luscious sauce.
- Rest the Chicken: Allow the dish to rest for a minute, letting the flavors meld further.
- Presentation is Key: Transfer the chicken to a platter, garnish with lemon slices or zest if desired.
- Enjoy: Serve hot, savoring every bite of this delicious creation.
Tips
- Butter Substitution: For a lighter option, use olive oil instead of butter.
- Cheese Options: Try different cheeses like Parmesan or Asiago for a varied flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute flour with a gluten-free alternative if needed.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can enhance the dish.
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 25 g
- Fats: 30 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
Variations
- Vegan Option: Use tofu and coconut cream for a plant-based version.
- Spicier Version: Add a pinch of chili flakes for heat.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.
- Enjoy with a side of crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
- Serve alongside a glass of light white wine for a complete meal experience.
Best Places
- Chez Paul - Known for its French cuisine, visit for culinary delight. Location: 123 Rue de Paris, Paris, France.
- La Vista - Charming eatery with stunning views and delicious menus. Location: Via Roma 45, Naples, Italy.
- The Lemon Lounge - Offers a variety of citrus-inspired dishes with a twist. Location: 567 Orchard Road, Singapore.
- Creamy Bistro - Focuses on rich, creamy dishes in a cozy setting. Location: 87 Pecan Street, Austin, USA.
- Zesty Kitchen - Specializes in vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients. Location: 9 Fleet Street, London, UK.
- Vista Point - Offers rustic meals with a modern touch. Location: 11 Coastal Avenue, Sydney, Australia.
- Cheese N’ Breeze - Known for its cheese-infused menu. Location: 40 Cheese Lane, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
- Lemon Bliss - Delightful meals with a zestful punch. Location: 14 Citrus Court, San Francisco, USA.
- Butterfly Bistro - Combines butter-rich flavors and unique dishes. Location: 23 Meadow Lane, Dublin, Ireland.
- Cream and Dream - A dream destination for creamy savory dishes. Location: 7 Dream Road, Wellington, New Zealand.