Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken – Tender, Cheesy, and Full of Flavor

There’s something about the combination of tangy lemon, rich cream, and savory cheese that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

This Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken is my go-to recipe when I want something easy but elegant.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich lemony flavor – Bright lemon juice balances the creamy sauce perfectly.

Cheesy crust – Pecorino Romano adds sharpness and golden crispiness.

Easy skillet-to-oven technique – Sear for flavor, then bake until tender.

Family favorite – Kids and adults love it alike.

Weeknight-ready – On the table in about 40 minutes.

Elegant enough for guests – It looks and tastes impressive with little effort.

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Lean and perfect for quick cooking.

Pecorino Romano cheese – Bold, salty, and forms a flavorful crust.

Flour – Helps the cheese stick and crisps the outside.

Olive oil – Used to sear for golden color.

Lemon juice + chicken broth – The tangy base of the sauce.

Heavy cream – Makes the sauce silky and rich.

Garlic – Adds depth and aroma.

Fresh parsley – For color and freshness at the end.

Pro Tips Before You Start

Use thin, even chicken breasts for faster cooking.

Press the cheese mixture firmly into the chicken so it sticks.

Don’t overcrowd the skillet—sear in batches if needed.

Scrape up browned bits after searing to flavor the sauce.

Let the sauce simmer until it lightly coats the back of a spoon.

How to Make Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Pat the chicken dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.

In a shallow dish, mix the grated Pecorino Romano with flour.

Dredge each chicken breast in the mixture, pressing gently so it adheres.

Step 2: Sear to Golden Perfection

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the chicken and sear each side until golden—about 3–4 minutes per side.

Transfer the seared chicken to a baking dish.

Step 3: Bake Until Juicy

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.

While it bakes, make the sauce in the same skillet.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Lemon Sauce

Lower the heat and add minced garlic to the skillet.

Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, then pour in lemon juice, chicken broth, and cream.

Simmer gently for 5 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce thickens slightly.

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Remove the chicken from the oven and transfer to plates.

Spoon warm lemon cream sauce over the top.

Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

What to Serve It With

Buttered pasta or angel hair

Garlic mashed potatoes

Steamed green beans or asparagus

Crusty bread to soak up the sauce

Light arugula salad with vinaigrette

Variations / Substitutions

Swap Pecorino for Parmesan or Asiago if needed.

Add capers for a salty, briny twist.

Use chicken thighs instead for juicier meat.

Make it dairy-free with coconut cream and nutritional yeast.

Add white wine to the sauce for extra depth.

Storage & Leftovers

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheat gently over low heat to keep the sauce creamy.

Do not freeze – dairy sauces tend to separate when thawed.

Repurpose leftovers into pasta or grain bowls.

FAQs

Can I use Parmesan instead of Pecorino Romano?
Yes, it’s a great substitute with a slightly milder flavor.

Is this dish kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The lemon flavor is balanced, and the creamy texture is a hit.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is best, but bottled works in a pinch.

What’s the best skillet to use?
A stainless steel or cast iron pan works well for searing.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
You can, but reheat slowly to avoid curdling.

How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Can I double the sauce?
Definitely—especially if you’re serving with pasta.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken is one of those dishes that feels comforting but still fresh.

I love how the Pecorino crust gives it a savory edge, and the sauce ties everything together with bright, creamy flavor.

Whether for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal with guests, it never disappoints.