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Homemade Creamy Lemon Parmesan Turkey Cutlets recipe photo

Creamy Lemon Parmesan Turkey Cutlets

This Creamy Lemon Parmesan Turkey Cutlets recipe is quick, indulgent, and bursting with bright citrusy flavor and rich creaminess. Perfect for weeknight dinners!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 4 turkey cutlets thin, even slices for quick cooking
  • 1 cup heavy cream the base for the luscious sauce
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese adds sharp, nutty flavor
  • 1 lemon zest and juice for bright, citrusy notes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for searing the cutlets
  • 3 cloves garlic minced, infuses the sauce with savory depth
  • Salt to taste, enhances all the flavors
  • Black pepper to taste, for a mild kick
  • Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish and freshness

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Microplane or fine grater
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Citrus juicer (optional)

Method
 

Prepare the Turkey Cutlets
  1. Pat the turkey cutlets dry with paper towels to ensure they sear nicely. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
Sear the Cutlets
  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the turkey cutlets. Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan. Remove the cutlets and set aside.
Make the Sauce
  1. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and stir to deglaze the pan, scraping up browned bits.
  2. Add lemon zest and juice, stirring well to combine.
Add Parmesan and Simmer
  1. Lower heat slightly and sprinkle in grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and sauce thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
Return Turkey to the Pan
  1. Place turkey cutlets back into the sauce. Spoon sauce over top and let warm together for 1-2 minutes to marry flavors.
Garnish and Serve
  1. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the cutlets. Serve immediately over pasta, rice, or vegetables.

Notes

  • Pat turkey dry before searing to achieve a golden crust and avoid steaming.
  • Adding lemon zest with juice enhances the citrus flavor more vibrantly.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother, creamier sauce.
  • Cook garlic just until fragrant to prevent bitterness and maintain sauce smoothness.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container refrigerated up to 3 days; reheat gently to avoid sauce breaking.