Now, in the same skillet, I add the minced garlic and let it cook for about a minute until fragrant. Then, I pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet; this is where all the flavor lies! I let it simmer for a couple of minutes to reduce slightly. Next, I take the cottage cheese and stir in the remaining lemon pepper seasoning, creating a creamy mixture that I pour back into the skillet. This will form the luscious sauce that wraps the chicken in flavor.
I place the chicken back into the skillet, generously coating it in the creamy sauce. Letting it simmer for another few minutes helps all those wonderful flavors to meld together. It’s truly such a vibrant dish that’s bursting with lemony goodness! Finally, I garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color before serving it up. This dish can easily be enjoyed with rice, pasta, or even a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Pro Tips for Best Results
Firstly, I tested this recipe with both fresh and frozen chicken breasts, and I found that fresh chicken gives the best texture and flavor. If you’re using frozen, just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Also, I like to adjust the lemon pepper seasoning based on my taste. If I’m in the mood for more zing, I’ll add a touch more to really enhance that brightness!
Another tip is to ensure your skillet is hot enough when you add the chicken. It helps to create a beautiful sear that locks in moisture. I made the mistake one evening of cooking on too low of heat, and the chicken turned out a bit rubbery. Trust me; a good sear makes all the difference.
Lastly, don’t skip letting the chicken rest after cooking. It helps redistribute the juices, keeping your chicken tender and flavorful. I often let mine rest while I prepare the sauce, which gives me the perfect window to clean up just a bit before serving!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake I made when I first started making this dish was not properly seasoning the chicken. A generous amount of salt and pepper is essential to elevate the whole flavor profile. I recommend seasoning both sides well; a little extra can go a long way! (See the next page below to continue…)