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Easy Zesty Lemon Pecorino Crispy Chicken

Easy Zesty Lemon Pecorino Crispy Chicken

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  • Author: Jennifer
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 13 minutes
  • Total Time: 28 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Pan-Fried
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Description

Crispy pan-fried chicken breasts coated in a zesty lemon and Pecorino breadcrumb crust. Quick, flavorful, and perfect for weeknight dinners.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
  • ½ cup grated Pecorino cheese
  • Zest of 1 large lemon
  • Juice of 1 large lemon
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Olive oil (for frying)

Instructions

1. Place the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet, gently pound to an even thickness, approximately ½ inch.

2. In one shallow dish, place the flour. In the second dish, whisk together the eggs. In the third dish, combine breadcrumbs, grated Pecorino cheese, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, paprika, and oregano.

3. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off the excess. Dip into the egg wash, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

4. In a large skillet, heat a generous amount of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan.

5. Place the coated chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

6. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and immediately drizzle with lemon juice from one large lemon.

7. Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain moisture and enhances flavor.

8. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add a touch of color and freshness.


Notes

For extra crunch, toast the breadcrumbs slightly before breading the chicken.

Serve with a simple arugula salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

You can substitute Pecorino with Parmesan if preferred.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 620mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 40g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg