Introduction
Welcome to a delightful journey of flavor with this Lemon Chicken Romano recipe! This dish is the perfect blend of tender chicken, crispy coating, and the bright zing of lemon. Picture the scene: golden-brown chicken breasts, gently baked to juicy perfection, and bursting with a rich, cheesy flavor. It’s a comforting yet elegant dinner that’s sure to impress your family and friends while remaining easy enough to whip up on a weeknight.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup flour, for dredging
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup grated Romano cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
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).
- In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, and pepper, mixing well to create a seasoned dredging flour.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs until well blended and frothy.
- In a third bowl, mix the grated Romano cheese and breadcrumbs together to form a delicious coating.
- Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, shaking off the excess for a light coating.
- Dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip back into the bowl.
- Coat the chicken in the breadcrumb and cheese mixture, pressing firmly to ensure it sticks well.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add the breaded chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes on each side, or until they are beautifully golden brown.
- Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and pour the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest over the top, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish the chicken with chopped fresh parsley before serving for a touch of color and freshness.
Notes or Tips
For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder to your breadcrumb mixture, or serve with a side of lemon wedges for added zest. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables to round out your meal. And of course, don’t forget to savor every bite!
Cooking Techniques
To achieve that perfect crust, ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken; this will help to create a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy. Using three separate bowls for the dredging, egg, and breadcrumb mixtures will help you maintain a clean workspace, and remember, one hand for wet ingredients and one for dry will keep things less messy!
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more moisture and flavor while still working wonderfully in this recipe.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can bread the chicken in advance and keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. Just be sure to cook it within a day or two for the best results.
Conclusion
This Lemon Chicken Romano is a comforting meal that gives you the satisfaction of a homemade dish without overwhelming preparation. With its inviting aroma and mouthwatering flavors, it’s bound to become a family favorite. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy this delicious and delightful recipe!