Alright, friend—get ready to meet your new weeknight obsession. This Zesty Lemon Pecorino Crispy Chicken is all kinds of golden, crunchy, juicy goodness with a zippy citrus twist that just makes your taste buds do a happy dance. Imagine the crackle of that crispy coating giving way to tender, flavorful chicken with notes of salty cheese and bright lemon. Yeah, it’s as good as it sounds.
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Whether you’re impressing dinner guests or just cooking for yourself (because you deserve fabulous food too), trust me—this one’s a game-changer. Let’s talk about why it deserves a place in your regular recipe rotation.
Why You’ll Love Zesty Lemon Pecorino Crispy Chicken
Versatile:
Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re hosting a laid-back dinner party. This chicken goes just as well with a crisp salad as it does piled high on mashed potatoes.
Budget-Friendly:
No fancy ingredients here—just a few pantry staples and a good wedge of pecorino cheese. It’s proof that simple can still be spectacular.
Quick and Easy:
No complicated steps or techniques. If you can bread chicken, you can make this dish—and make it well.
Customizable:
Feeling spicy? Add red pepper flakes to the breading. Want it more herby? Throw in fresh thyme or rosemary. You’re in charge.
Crowd-Pleasing:
Even the pickiest eaters will be asking for seconds. That perfect balance of crispy, cheesy, and citrusy? It’s a universal win.
Ingredients in Zesty Lemon Pecorino Crispy Chicken
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Chicken Thighs or Breasts: Juicy and flavorful, they’re the perfect base for that crispy coating. Use boneless, skinless pieces for the best texture.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give that ultra-crunchy, golden exterior we’re all obsessed with.
Pecorino Romano Cheese: Salty, nutty, and just sharp enough to cut through the richness. It melts into the crust beautifully.
Lemon Zest: The zesty zing that brightens everything up. It adds freshness and balance to the savory flavors.
Garlic Powder: Adds depth without overpowering the other ingredients.
Eggs: The glue that holds your crust together.
Flour: Helps everything stick and gives the crust some body.
Olive Oil or Neutral Oil: For frying to golden perfection.
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Equipment:
Start by preheating your skillet over medium heat. A nice, even preheat ensures a golden, crispy crust.
Combine Ingredients:
In one bowl, mix your flour with garlic powder and a pinch of salt. In a second bowl, whisk your eggs. In a third, combine panko, pecorino, lemon zest, and a little black pepper.
Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
Get your skillet hot and pour in enough oil to shallow fry. You want enough to crisp the bottom but not submerge the chicken.
Assemble the Dish:
Dredge each chicken piece in the flour, then the egg, and finally the panko mix. Press the coating in firmly for maximum crunch.
Cook to Perfection:
Place the chicken into the hot oil and cook for about 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Don’t overcrowd the pan—work in batches if needed.
Finishing Touches:
Remove the chicken and let it rest on a paper towel-lined plate. Sprinkle a little extra lemon zest or cheese on top while it’s hot if you’re feeling fancy.
Serve and Enjoy:
Slice it up or serve whole—just make sure to serve it hot and crispy. Maybe with a lemon wedge on the side for an extra burst.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 410
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
How to Serve Zesty Lemon Pecorino Crispy Chicken
Fresh Salads: A lemony arugula salad with shaved parmesan and balsamic glaze makes a dreamy side.
Crusty Bread: A slice of warm sourdough or focaccia is perfect for soaking up any juicy bits.
Creamy Accompaniments: A herby aioli or lemon-garlic yogurt dip takes things up a notch.
Vegetable Sides: Roasted asparagus, garlic green beans, or buttery corn on the cob are perfect pairings.
As a Standalone: Honestly? It’s amazing just on its own with a squeeze of lemon and a side of something cold and bubbly.
Additional Tips
Prep Ahead: Bread the chicken up to 4 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to fry.
Spice It Up: Add a dash of cayenne or smoked paprika to the breadcrumb mix.
Dietary Adjustments: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to keep it GF-friendly.
Storage Tips: Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for crispiness.
Double the Batch: You’ll want extras—trust me. Make more and freeze uncooked breaded chicken for an easy meal later.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I substitute Pecorino with Parmesan?
A1: Absolutely! Parmesan works great if that’s what you have—just expect a slightly milder flavor.
Q2: Can I make this in the oven?
A2: Yes! Bake at 425°F on a wire rack for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and cooked through.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: In an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer for best texture.
Q4: Can I freeze the chicken?
A4: Yes! Freeze after breading but before cooking. Lay flat on a tray until solid, then transfer to a bag or container.
Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A5: Reheat in the oven at 375°F for 10–12 minutes or until crispy and heated through.
Q6: Can I use chicken tenders or drumsticks?
A6: Sure! Just adjust the cooking time. Tenders cook quicker, while drumsticks may take a bit longer.
Q7: Is this kid-friendly?
A7: Very! If your kids are sensitive to lemon, go light on the zest and they’ll devour it.
Q8: Can I air fry this recipe?
A8: You bet! Air fry at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway. Spritz with oil for extra crispiness.
Q9: What oil is best for frying?
A9: A neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil works best. Olive oil is great for flavor but has a lower smoke point.
Q10: Can I serve this cold?
A10: Surprisingly, yes! It’s delicious chopped into a salad or tucked into a sandwich the next day.
Zesty Lemon Pecorino Crispy Chicken
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Zesty Lemon Pecorino Crispy Chicken features tender, golden chicken tenders coated in a flavorful lemon and Pecorino breadcrumb crust, topped with a creamy, tangy lemon sauce. It’s a perfect balance of crispy and creamy, ideal for a quick dinner or special meal!
Ingredients
- 8 (2-ounce) chicken tenderloins
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Zest from 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (for sauce)
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for sauce)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1/4 cup milk
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon butter (for sauce)
Instructions
- Using a meat mallet, flatten the chicken tenderloins to an even thickness.
- Set up three bowls for dredging: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs, lemon zest, and Pecorino Romano cheese.
- Coat each tenderloin first in flour, then in egg, and finally in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large nonstick sauté pan over medium heat. Once hot, fry the chicken on both sides until golden and cooked through, about 3–5 minutes per side. Work in batches if necessary. Drain on paper towels.
- In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Whisk in flour, then gradually add milk, cream, and chicken broth.
- Increase heat to medium-high, bring to a boil, and cook until the sauce thickens, about 3–5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and butter.
- Drizzle the sauce over the crispy chicken before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can garnish with fresh parsley or extra lemon zest.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or a side of roasted vegetables.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 440mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 165mg