Parmesan Crusted Lemon Pepper Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that has won the hearts of food lovers everywhere. Known for its crispy, cheesy crust and zesty lemon flavor, this recipe is a perfect blend of textures and tastes. The origins of crusted chicken dishes date back to the time when breading meat was a popular method to add flavor and texture. This particular recipe stands out due to its refreshing lemony twist, which pairs perfectly with the savory Parmesan cheese.
Many people soak chicken in lemon before cooking to tenderize the meat and infuse it with a bright, tangy flavor. The acid in the lemon helps break down the proteins in the chicken, making it more tender and juicy. This recipe not only provides a delightful dining experience but also offers a nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients
To make this delectable Parmesan Crusted Lemon Pepper Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Marinade:
- 2 lemons, juiced and zested
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Breading:
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, combine the lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken breasts or thighs, ensuring they are well coated in the marinade.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse the chicken.
Breading the Chicken
- Prepare the Breading:
- In a shallow dish, mix the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, lemon pepper seasoning, and dried oregano.
- Coat the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess liquid drip off.
- Press each piece of chicken into the breading mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated on all sides.
Cooking the Chicken
- Pan-Fry the Chicken:
- In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the breaded chicken to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
- Bake the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Tips and Variations
Cooking Tips
- Use an Air Fryer: For a healthier version, try cooking the breaded lemon chicken in an air fryer. Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Adjust the Lemon Flavor: If you prefer a stronger lemon flavor, add extra lemon zest to the breading mixture.
Variations
- Parmesan Crusted Lemon Pepper Chicken with Mayonnaise:
- Mix 1/4 cup of mayonnaise with the marinade ingredients for a creamier texture.
- Try Different Cuts:
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier result. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Dipping Sauce:
- Serve with a lemon garlic aioli or a tangy yogurt dip for extra flavor.
Nutritional Information
Here is the basic nutritional information per serving (based on using chicken breasts):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 450mg
For those counting carbs, Parmesan crusted chicken is a relatively low-carb option, with approximately 12 grams of carbohydrates per serving, mainly from the breadcrumbs.
Parmesan Crusted Lemon Pepper Chicken is a simple yet sophisticated dish that will impress your family and friends. The combination of crispy Parmesan crust, zesty lemon flavor, and tender chicken makes it a meal to remember. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Try this easy lemon Parmesan chicken recipe today, and don’t forget to share your experience in the comments section below! We’d love to hear your thoughts and any creative variations you’ve tried. For more delicious recipes, be sure to explore other chicken recipes on easycrispyrecipes.com, such as Pan Roasted Halibut With Calvados And Serrano Ham Butter Sauce and Baked Feta Pasta.