Introduction
Welcome to a delightful culinary adventure with our Lemon Chicken Romano! This dish is a perfect marriage of flavors, featuring tender chicken breasts coated in a crispy, cheesy crust that’s bursting with zesty lemon goodness. It’s a comfort food classic that is both elegant enough for a dinner party and simple enough for a weeknight meal. Let’s explore this recipe that promises to fill your kitchen with aromatic bliss!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup grated Romano cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that our chicken bakes to perfection.
- In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This seasoned flour will add flavor to our chicken and help create that irresistible crust.
- In another dish, beat the eggs until they are smooth and well mixed. This will help our cheese adhere beautifully to the chicken.
- In a third dish, place the grated Romano cheese, which will add a rich and tangy flavor.
- Dredge each chicken breast first in the flour mixture, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with the Romano cheese. Make sure each piece is generously covered!
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the coated chicken breasts and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and delicious.
- Once browned, transfer the chicken to a baking dish, creating a beautiful layer of crispy chicken.
- In the same skillet, add the chicken broth, lemon zest, and lemon juice to deglaze the pan, scraping up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom. This step enhances the flavor of your dish.
- Pour the lemon broth mixture over the chicken in the baking dish, allowing it to soak in all those zesty flavors.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and juicy.
- Before serving, garnish your Lemon Chicken Romano with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in lemon juice and herbs for an hour before breading. You can also try substituting Parmesan cheese for Romano if you prefer a different cheese profile. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe utilizes the classic technique of dredging, which helps to create a flavorful and crispy crust on the chicken. Deglazing the skillet not only helps incorporate the browned bits into the sauce but also adds a depth of flavor to the dish. Baking the chicken after searing ensures it remains tender and juicy while achieving a beautiful finish.
FAQ
Can I freeze leftovers? Yes! Allow the chicken to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw and warm it in the oven until heated through.
Can I use bone-in chicken parts? Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as bone-in pieces will take longer to cook through.
Conclusion
There you have it—a simple yet spectacular Lemon Chicken Romano that is sure to brighten up your dinner table! With its crispy crust, savory flavors, and a hint of citrus, this dish is destined to become a favorite in your household. Serve it up with a smile, and enjoy each delicious bite!