Delicious Parmesan-Crusted Lemon Chicken served on a plate, garnished with herbs

Parmesan-Crusted Lemon Chicken

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Why Make This Recipe

Parmesan-Crusted Lemon Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the savory flavors of Parmesan cheese with the bright, zesty taste of lemon. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or meal prep, as it is both simple to make and incredibly satisfying. The crispy crust gives each chicken breast an appealing texture, while the juicy meat remains moist and flavorful. With just a few ingredients and straightforward cooking steps, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen.

How to Make Parmesan-Crusted Lemon Chicken

Making Parmesan-Crusted Lemon Chicken is a breeze. Follow these steps to bring this tasty recipe to life:

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Lemon slices for garnish

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Directions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step ensures that your chicken will cook evenly and build a delicious crisp on the outside while keeping the inside moist.

  2. Prepare the Coating: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This mixture will create a flavorful crust for your chicken, so mix it well to ensure even distribution of the ingredients.

  3. Coat the Chicken: Take each chicken breast and coat it generously with the cheese mixture. Press down lightly to ensure that the mixture sticks well to the chicken. This step is important, as it helps to create that crispy crust that everyone loves.

  4. Heat the Skillet: Place a skillet over medium heat and add the butter. Allow the butter to melt and become bubbly. This is where the chicken will get its first burst of flavor as it sears.

  5. Cook the Chicken: Carefully add the coated chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes, or until they turn golden brown. This step is essential, as it enhances the flavor and texture of the chicken before baking.

  6. Transfer to Baking Dish: Once the chicken is browned, transfer it to a baking dish. Make sure to place them in a single layer to ensure that they cook evenly.

  7. Add Lemon Juice: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken in the baking dish. This adds an extra layer of flavor and moisture, helping to lock in the juiciness of the chicken.

  8. Bake the Chicken: Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes. You can check that the chicken is fully cooked by making sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

  9. Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve it hot, garnished with lemon slices for an extra pop of color and flavor.

How to Serve Parmesan-Crusted Lemon Chicken

Parmesan-Crusted Lemon Chicken is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Here are a few ideas on how to present this delightful dish:

  • Plate it Simply: Serve the chicken on a plate with a garnish of lemon slices. Pair it with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables for a light and healthy meal.

  • Add a Starch: Consider serving the chicken with seasoned rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes. The creamy texture of mashed potatoes complements the crispy chicken perfectly.

  • Make a Sandwich: Slice the chicken and layer it on a sandwich with some fresh arugula, tomato, and a drizzle of lemon mayonnaise for a delicious twist.

  • Pair with Sauce: Serve it with a dip or sauce on the side, such as a tangy lemon aioli or a refreshing tzatziki, to enhance the flavor.

How to Store Parmesan-Crusted Lemon Chicken

Proper storage will help keep your Parmesan-Crusted Lemon Chicken fresh for your next meal. Here’s how to store leftovers:

  1. Cooling Down: Allow any leftover chicken to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This helps to prevent condensation, which can make the coating soggy.

  2. Airtight Container: Place the chicken in an airtight container. This helps to retain its flavor and prevents it from drying out or absorbing other odors from the fridge.

  3. Refrigeration: Store the container in the refrigerator. The chicken will remain fresh for up to 3 days when properly stored.

  4. Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain the crispiness. Alternatively, you can warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a little extra butter to help crisp it back up.

Tips to Make Parmesan-Crusted Lemon Chicken

Here are some handy tips to ensure your Parmesan-Crusted Lemon Chicken turns out perfect every time:

  • Chicken Thickness: Try to use chicken breasts of even thickness. If they’re too thick, you can pound them slightly with a meat mallet. This ensures even cooking and helps them finish cooking at the same time.

  • Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh Parmesan cheese instead of pre-grated cheese for more flavor and better texture. Freshly grated cheese melts better and creates a more substantial crust.

  • Breadcrumb Options: You can use panko breadcrumbs for an even crunchier coating. They create a lighter and crispier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.

  • Spice It Up: Add some cayenne pepper or paprika to the cheese mixture for a little extra kick. It enhances the flavor variety without overpowering the lemon.

Variation

If you want to switch things up, consider trying these variations of Parmesan-Crusted Lemon Chicken:

  • Herbed Version: Mix in dried herbs like oregano or thyme into the cheese coating for added earthy flavors.

  • Garlic Butter Version: Instead of using plain butter, you can infuse it with minced garlic. This adds an aromatic flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.

  • Vegetarian Option: Consider using thick slices of eggplant or zucchini that are breaded in the same way. Bake them as you’d do with the chicken for a delicious vegetarian version.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but ensure they are completely thawed before cooking. This will allow for even cooking and prevent the chicken from being rubbery.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the coated chicken breasts ahead of time. Just store them covered in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook. It’s best to cook them the same day for optimal crispiness.

3. Is it necessary to sear the chicken before baking?

While searing is not mandatory, it adds a delightful golden crust and enhances the flavor significantly. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but expect a softer crust.

In conclusion, Parmesan-Crusted Lemon Chicken is a delicious and simple dish that combines the crispiness of Parmesan with the zest of lemon, making it a delightful meal for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress!

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Parmesan-Crusted Lemon Chicken

  • Author: ethanmiller
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: None
Print Recipe

Description

A delightful dish that combines the savory flavors of Parmesan cheese with bright, zesty lemon, perfect for weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Lemon slices for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Coat each chicken breast with the cheese mixture.
  4. Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt the butter.
  5. Add the coated chicken breasts and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
  6. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top.
  7. Bake in the oven for about 20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  8. Let rest for a few minutes and serve garnished with lemon slices.

Notes

Use fresh Parmesan cheese for better flavor. You can also substitute with panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier texture.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: chicken, parmesan, lemon, baked chicken, easy dinner

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