Introduction
Welcome to a delightful culinary experience with our Irresistible Lemon Chicken Romano! This mouthwatering dish combines the tangy zest of fresh lemons with the rich depth of Romano cheese, all enveloped around tender, juicy chicken breasts. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe brings a burst of flavor to your table that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into creating this delicious meal that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup grated Romano cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Juice of 2 lemons
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it warmed up for the perfect bake.
- In a shallow dish, combine the flour, grated Romano cheese, salt, and pepper, creating a flavorful coating.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs until well combined, ready to add richness to the chicken.
- Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, ensuring they’re well coated. Then dip them into the beaten eggs, and return to the flour mixture for an extra layer of deliciousness.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and unsalted butter over medium-high heat until sizzling.
- Add the chicken breasts to the skillet, cooking until they turn a gorgeous golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and transfer it to a baking dish, laying them side by side.
- In the same skillet, pour in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth. Stir to combine, scraping up those mouthwatering browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Pour the vibrant lemon sauce over the chicken in the baking dish, allowing it to soak in all that flavor.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear.
- Once done, remove from the oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve hot to your delighted guests!
Notes or Tips
For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in lemon juice and olive oil for a few hours before breading. This will enhance the lemony goodness while keeping the chicken juicy. Pair this dish with a fresh green salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal that looks as good as it tastes!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe employs a classic dredging technique that helps achieve a crispy, cheesy exterior on the chicken breasts. The quick sear in the skillet locks in moisture while creating a beautiful golden crust. Remember, cooking over medium-high heat is key to prevent the chicken from drying out while achieving that coveted crispy coating.
FAQ
Can I use other types of cheese? Absolutely! While Romano adds a beautiful flavor, feel free to experiment with Parmesan or even a combination for a unique twist.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free? Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour for a delicious alternative.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can bread the chicken and keep it in the fridge for a few hours before cooking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the refrigerator.
Conclusion
This Irresistible Lemon Chicken Romano is a dish that brings sunshine to your kitchen and warmth to your dinner table. Whether you’re looking for an impressive meal to serve guests or a comforting family dinner, this recipe won’t disappoint. These tender chicken breasts bathed in a flavorful lemon sauce are bound to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy every bite and happy cooking!