Lemon Chicken is a perfect combination of bright, tangy flavors and savory, crispy texture that’s sure to impress. The crispy Parmesan-crusted chicken pairs wonderfully with a rich, buttery lemon sauce, creating a dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also elegant enough to serve at a dinner party. The zesty lemon and fresh garlic bring a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken, while the Parmesan crust adds a delightful crunch that elevates the entire dish.

This recipe is both flavorful and versatile. You can serve it with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this lemon chicken will become a favorite in your recipe rotation. The lemon butter sauce is what truly ties the whole dish together, creating a smooth, luscious coating over the crispy chicken that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Perfect Balance of Flavors

The combination of crispy Parmesan crusted chicken with a tangy lemon butter sauce is a mouthwatering blend of flavors that’s both rich and refreshing.

2. Quick and Easy to Prepare

Despite its elegant taste, this recipe comes together in just a few simple steps, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner parties.

3. Crispy and Juicy Chicken

The Parmesan crust creates a crispy, golden-brown exterior while keeping the chicken moist and juicy on the inside, giving you the perfect bite every time.

4. Versatile Meal Option

This lemon chicken pairs well with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, pasta, or even a simple side salad, making it a great choice for any occasion.

5. Kid-Friendly

The crispy chicken and rich lemon sauce are sure to appeal to kids and adults alike, making it a family-friendly meal that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

For the Parmesan Crusted Chicken:

Chicken breasts (patted dry)
Olive oil (for sautéing)

Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Lemon slices (for garnish, optional)

For the Egg Mixture:

Eggs

Garlic (minced)
Italian seasoning
Salt

Ground black pepper

For the Parmesan Breading Mixture:

Parmesan cheese (grated)
All-purpose flour

For the Lemon Butter Sauce:

Unsalted butter
Garlic (minced)
Lemon juice

Chicken broth
Ground black pepper

Variations

Add Herbs to the Breading

For an extra layer of flavor, mix some dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil into the Parmesan breading mixture.

Make it Spicy

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the lemon butter sauce for a subtle spicy kick that pairs well with the zesty lemon.

Chicken Thighs Option

If you prefer dark meat, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a juicier option.

Gluten-Free Option

For a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or use almond flour for a low-carb option.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This step is essential for ensuring the crust adheres well to the chicken. Set aside while you prepare the egg mixture and breading.

Step 2: Make the Egg Mixture

In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Parmesan Breading

In another shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese and all-purpose flour. Mix well.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, ensuring it is fully coated. Then, dredge the chicken in the Parmesan mixture, pressing lightly to make sure the coating sticks.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken breasts to the pan. Cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

Step 6: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, add the unsalted butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and golden. Add the lemon juice, chicken broth, and black pepper. Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

Step 7: Serve

Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet with the lemon butter sauce. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Pat the Chicken Dry: Ensure the chicken is dry before breading so the Parmesan crust sticks better.
Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: Cook the chicken in batches if needed, so the chicken gets crispy and doesn’t steam in the pan.

Check the Chicken’s Temperature: To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F.
Add Extra Lemon: For more lemon flavor, zest the lemon before slicing it and add the zest to the sauce.

How to Serve

Lemon Chicken is wonderfully versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Serve it with roasted vegetables, a light pasta dish, or even a crisp green salad. For an extra indulgent touch, serve it with mashed potatoes or garlic butter rice.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Lemon Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet to preserve the crispy crust.

Freezing

While the breaded chicken itself can be frozen before cooking, the lemon butter sauce is best made fresh. If you want to freeze the chicken, coat it, then place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2-3 months. To cook, thaw in the fridge overnight and then sauté as directed.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until heated through. You can also heat the lemon butter sauce separately and pour it over the chicken when serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use skin-on chicken for this recipe?

While skin-on chicken can be used, the Parmesan crust may not adhere as well. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are recommended for best results.

2. Can I make this recipe without Parmesan cheese?

If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, you can substitute it with another hard cheese like Romano or Pecorino for a similar flavor.

3. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165°F for safe consumption.

4. Can I add vegetables to the pan while cooking the chicken?

Yes, you can sauté some vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini in the same pan after removing the chicken for an easy side dish.

5. Can I use a different type of oil to sauté the chicken?

Yes, you can use other oils like avocado oil or vegetable oil in place of olive oil, but olive oil works best for its flavor.

6. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the lemon butter sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it. Reheat it on the stove before serving.

7. Can I use bottled lemon juice for the sauce?

Fresh lemon juice is preferred for the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.

8. How do I make the crust even crispier?

For an extra crispy crust, add a little panko breadcrumbs to the Parmesan mixture.

9. Can I substitute butter with olive oil in the sauce?

While butter gives the sauce a rich flavor, you can substitute olive oil for a lighter option.

10. Can I double this recipe for a larger group?

Yes, you can easily double the ingredients to serve more people. Just ensure to cook the chicken in batches to maintain the crispy crust.

Conclusion

Lemon Chicken is a delightful, flavorful dish that’s easy to make and sure to impress. The crispy Parmesan crust and the tangy, buttery lemon sauce make for a perfect combination that’s both savory and refreshing. Whether you’re preparing dinner for the family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is a surefire hit. Enjoy the delicious flavors of this elegant dish that’s as simple as it is satisfying!