Ingredients
Method
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken cutlets dry with a paper towel. This is crucial for getting a good sear. Season both sides generously with the salt and black pepper.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan or skillet over a medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the chicken cutlets in a single layer (work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding). Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter to the same pan. Once it has melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn, as it will become bitter.
- Build the Sauce Base: Sprinkle the dried thyme and rosemary into the pan and stir for another 30 seconds to toast the herbs. Pour in the chicken stock to deglaze the pan. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up all the delicious browned bits from the bottom. I find this step is absolutely essential for a deep, savoury sauce.
- Make it Creamy: Let the stock simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly. Lower the heat and pour in the double cream, stirring to combine. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer (do not boil) and let it cook for 3-4 minutes, until it begins to thicken.
- Add the Cheese: Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it has completely melted and the sauce is smooth. This is also the point where I taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Bring it All Together: Return the seared chicken and any accumulated juices from the plate back into the pan with the sauce. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken.
- Final Simmer and Serve: Place the pan back over a low heat and let everything simmer gently for another 1-2 minutes, just to heat the chicken through. Garnish with the freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
Serve this chicken over pasta, rice, or with mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. It also pairs well with steamed asparagus or green beans.
