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Lemon Pecorino Crusted Chicken with Creamy Lemon Sauce

A crispy, cheesy delight of chicken breasts coated in a zesty lemon and Pecorino crust, served with a creamy lemon sauce.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese the star of the show!
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs panko works wonders for extra crunch
  • 1 piece lemon, zested and juiced let’s bring on that zing!
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves or whatever herbs you have on hand
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 pieces eggs the magical binders
  • Olive oil for frying
For the Creamy Lemon Sauce
  • 1 cup heavy cream hey, we’re living a little!
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice to enhance that zesty flavor
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color!

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken breasts dry and season with salt and pepper.
  2. In a bowl, beat the eggs. In another bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, Pecorino cheese, lemon zest, and thyme.
Crust It Up
  1. Dunk each chicken breast into the egg mixture, letting the excess drip off.
  2. Coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it is nicely coated.
Fry Time
  1. In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Cook the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side until beautifully golden.
Bake the Chicken
  1. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and pop it in the oven.
  2. Bake for about 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Creamy Lemon Sauce
  1. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until warmed through.
  2. Stir in lemon juice, salt, and pepper, letting it simmer until it thickens slightly.
  3. Finish by stirring in the fresh parsley.
Plate It Up
  1. Plate the chicken and drizzle the lemon sauce over the top.
  2. Garnish with extra lemon zest or parsley for an Instagram-worthy touch!

Notes

If your sauce gets too thick, whisk in a splash of chicken broth or a little water to loosen it up. For an extra crunchy finish, sprinkle pecorino cheese on top of the chicken during the last few minutes of baking.