Introduction
If you’re looking to elevate your weeknight dinners, look no further than this Zesty Lemon Pecorino Crispy Chicken. It’s a delightful twist on the classic breaded chicken, packed with a burst of citrusy flavor and the rich, savory notes of pecorino cheese. Imagine sinking your teeth into juicy chicken with a wonderfully crispy coating that’s both golden brown and utterly irresistible! Perfect for impressing family and friends, this dish brings a freshness that’s sure to brighten your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 cup finely grated pecorino cheese
- Zest of 2 lemons
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make clean-up a breeze.
- In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. This will form the first layer of flavor.
- In another shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and the fresh lemon juice until well combined. This zesty mixture will help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken.
- In a third shallow dish, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the finely grated pecorino cheese and lemon zest. The cheese will add a creamy, salty depth, while the zest will brighten the flavor.
- Take each chicken breast and dip it first into the flour mixture, shaking off the excess. Next, coat it in the egg mixture, and lastly, roll it in the panko mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
- Heat a generous drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the breaded chicken breasts. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are beautifully golden brown and crispy.
- Once browned, transfer the chicken breasts to the prepared baking sheet. Pop them into the preheated oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes to retain its juiciness. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy the crunch!
Notes or Tips
- For an extra punch of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in lemon juice for 30 minutes before breading.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses—Parmesan or even a sharp cheddar would work well.
- This chicken pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a light meal.
Cooking Techniques
Frying the chicken to a golden crisp is the key to achieving that perfect texture. Be sure to maintain the heat so the oil does not cool down too much, which can cause the breading to become soggy. Baking after frying ensures the chicken cooks through without losing that delicious crunch.
FAQ
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely! Thighs can add extra juiciness and flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
- What dipping sauce pairs well with this chicken? A simple lemon aioli or garlic dipping sauce would complement the flavors beautifully!
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the breaded chicken ahead of time, and just fry and bake when you’re ready to serve.
Conclusion
This Zesty Lemon Pecorino Crispy Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience bursting with flavor and texture that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its crunchy exterior and tender, juicy center, it’s the perfect way to elevate your dinner routine. Gather your loved ones, serve with a side of good conversation, and enjoy every delicious bite!