Lemon Pecorino Crusted Chicken with Creamy Lemon Sauce

Lemon Pecorino Crusted Chicken with Creamy Lemon Sauce is a delightful dish that combines the zesty brightness of lemon with the rich flavor of Pecorino Romano cheese. The crispy, cheesy coating adds a savory crunch to tender chicken breasts, while the creamy sauce elevates the dish to a restaurant-quality meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup Pecorino Romano cheese, grated
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. In a shallow dish, combine the Pecorino Romano cheese and flour. Dredge the chicken breasts in the mixture, pressing to coat evenly.
4. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. In the same skillet, add the garlic and cook for 1 minute. Stir in the lemon juice, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Simmer until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
7. Serve the chicken with the creamy lemon sauce drizzled on top, and garnish with chopped parsley.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Cheese Alternatives: Substitute Pecorino Romano with Parmesan or a similar cheese if desired.
• Add Vegetables: Include sautéed spinach or roasted asparagus as a side for added nutrition and flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also use the microwave, but be cautious not to overcook the chicken.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use bone-in chicken breasts?
   Yes, but cooking time will need to be adjusted. Bone-in pieces may take longer to cook through.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, but it’s best to bake the chicken fresh for the best texture.
3. Is this dish gluten-free?
   To make it gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
4. What can I serve with this chicken?
   Serve with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad to complement the flavors.
5. Can I freeze leftovers?
   Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
6. What should I do if I don’t have fresh lemon juice?
   You can use bottled lemon juice, but fresh lemon juice provides a brighter flavor.
7. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   Yes, other hard cheeses like Grana Padano or aged Gouda can also work well.
8. How can I tell when the chicken is done?
   Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
9. Can I add herbs to the sauce?
   Fresh herbs like thyme or basil can enhance the flavor of the sauce beautifully.
10. What’s the best way to serve this dish?
    Serve the chicken sliced with a drizzle of the creamy lemon sauce on top, garnished with fresh parsley.

Conclusion

Lemon Pecorino Crusted Chicken with Creamy Lemon Sauce is a flavorful and elegant dish that is easy to prepare yet impressive enough for any gathering. The combination of crispy chicken, creamy sauce, and zesty lemon makes it a delightful addition to your dinner rotation. Enjoy this savory meal with your favorite sides for a satisfying dining experience!$

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