Introduction:
Elevate your chicken game with our Parmesan-Crusted Lemon Chicken – a culinary masterpiece that combines the irresistible crunch of Parmesan crust with the zesty brightness of lemon. This easy-to-make dish transforms simple chicken into a flavorful experience that will have your taste buds singing. Get ready to savor every bite of this delicious weeknight wonder!
Why We Love This Recipe:
✔️ Golden Crust: Parmesan-infused crispiness that adds a delightful texture to the chicken. ✔️ Zesty Twist: Fresh lemon infuses a burst of citrusy flavor into every bite. ✔️ Quick and Easy: A gourmet dish made effortlessly for a perfect weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Zest of 2 lemons
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.
- In a shallow bowl, mix together Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, lemon zest, and chopped parsley.
- Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, ensuring an even coating.
- Press the chicken into the Parmesan mixture, coating both sides generously.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each side of the chicken until golden brown, about 3 minutes per side.
- Transfer the seared chicken breasts to the prepared baking sheet.
- Drizzle lemon juice over the chicken and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the crust is golden and crispy.
- Garnish with additional chopped parsley and lemon slices before serving.
Notes:
- For extra lemon flavor, add more lemon zest to the Parmesan mixture or squeeze additional lemon juice over the baked chicken.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or your favorite grain.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Absolutely! Adjust cooking times based on the thickness of the chicken thighs.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the coated chicken and refrigerate it for a few hours before cooking.