Creamy Lemon Sauce Dinner
This creamy lemon sauce dinner features tender chicken and a rich, tangy sauce that beautifully clings to pasta, making it perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz fettuccine or spaghetti Provides a hearty structure
Chicken
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into thin cutlets Lean protein that cooks quickly
- 1 egg Binds the panko coating
- 1 tbsp milk Adds moisture to the egg wash
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs For crispy texture
Seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt Enhances overall flavor
- 1/8 tsp black pepper Adds slight warmth
Sauce Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil For frying, adds richness
- 4 tbsp fresh lemon juice, divided Brightens flavors
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter Creates smoothness in sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Adds aromatic flavor
- 1/4 tsp onion powder Offers underlying sweetness
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream Creates the creamy base
- 1/2 tsp salt Balances the richness
- 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese Adds nuttiness and depth
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley, optional For freshness
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Reserve some pasta water before draining and set aside.
- In a shallow bowl, combine egg and milk, whisking together until blended. Dip chicken cutlets into the egg wash.
- Transfer chicken to a plate with panko breadcrumbs, sprinkle with salt and pepper, pressing the breadcrumbs onto the chicken.
Cooking
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add panko-coated chicken and cook for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Squeeze 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice over the cooked chicken and remove from the skillet. Slice chicken into strips.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over low heat. Add minced garlic and onion powder, cooking for about 30 seconds.
- Pour in heavy whipping cream and remaining salt, whisking gently while it heats up until it thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat and whisk in the remaining lemon juice.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Adjust sauce consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
- Toss the cooked pasta in the creamy lemon sauce, serving garnished with sliced chicken and parsley if desired.
Notes
For best results, ensure chicken cuts are uniform, monitor garlic to avoid burning, and don't rush the frying process.