This Parmesan-Crusted Lemon Chicken is the perfect combination of crispy texture and zesty flavor. Each chicken cutlet is coated in a golden parmesan and breadcrumb crust that delivers an irresistible crunch. Infused with garlic and fresh lemon zest, every bite is flavorful and tender, offering a balance of savory and citrus notes.
Ideal for quick weeknight dinners or elegant meals, this recipe is simple yet sophisticated. Pair it with roasted vegetables, garlic butter pasta, or a refreshing salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy and Flavorful: The parmesan and breadcrumb coating creates a deliciously crispy crust with each bite.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
- Versatile Pairing: Matches beautifully with a variety of side dishes.
- Zesty and Fresh: Lemon zest and fresh juice brighten the flavors, adding a refreshing note.
- Customizable: Simple ingredient swaps can make it gluten-free or lighter.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut in half lengthwise to make 4 thin cutlets)
- ½ teaspoon salt (to enhance flavor)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (for subtle heat)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (for a rich, savory note)
- ½ teaspoon paprika (for color and a hint of spice)
- Zest of 1 lemon (for bright, zesty flavor)
For the Breading
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for a savory, crispy crust)
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (for added crunch)
- 1 egg, beaten (to help the breading stick)
- 2 tablespoons milk (to thin the egg mixture slightly)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour (for the initial coating)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
For Cooking & Serving
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (or butter, for frying)
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving and an extra lemony touch)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Dry the Chicken: Pat each chicken cutlet dry using paper towels to ensure the breading adheres well.
- Season: Sprinkle both sides of the chicken with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and lemon zest, ensuring even coverage for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Stations
- Flour Station: Place all-purpose flour in a shallow dish.
- Egg Station: In another dish, whisk together the beaten egg and milk until well combined.
- Breadcrumb Station: In a third dish, mix the Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs until evenly distributed.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
- Dredge: Coat each chicken cutlet in the flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip: Next, dip the chicken into the egg mixture, letting the excess drip off.
- Press: Finally, press each cutlet into the Parmesan-panko mixture, ensuring the coating sticks evenly and completely.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
- Heat Oil: Add olive oil to a large skillet and heat over medium heat.
- Fry: Once hot, place the chicken cutlets into the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until the coating is golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- Rest: Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Lemon Squeeze: Just before serving, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken for a burst of flavor.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
- Serve: Accompany with lemon wedges on the side for an extra citrus kick.
Cooking Tips for Success
- Thin Cutlets: Ensure chicken cutlets are even in thickness for consistent cooking.
- Oil Temperature: Heat oil properly to avoid soggy breading; it should sizzle when the chicken hits the pan.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary to avoid lowering the oil temperature.
- Resting Time: Let the chicken rest after cooking to retain its juices.
- Extra Crispy: For an extra crispy crust, consider using a mix of panko and crushed cornflakes.
Substitutions & Variations
- Gluten-Free: Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs for the coating.
- Lighter Option: Bake instead of frying at 400°F (200°C) for 20-22 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- More Flavor: Add 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Herbal Twist: Swap parsley for basil or thyme for a different flavor profile.
- Cheese Variety: Replace Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well. Adjust the cooking time to 5-6 minutes per side due to the slightly thicker cut.
2. What’s the best side dish for this chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with:
- Mashed potatoes or garlic butter pasta
- Roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or zucchini
- A fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
3. Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
Absolutely! Bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-22 minutes, flipping once midway for an even, crispy crust.
4. How can I ensure the coating sticks to the chicken?
Pat the chicken dry, and don’t skip the flour step—it helps the egg mixture and breading adhere properly.
5. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to maintain crispiness.
Nutritional Information
(Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
Storage Instructions
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze breaded, uncooked chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
- Reheating: Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to keep the coating crispy.
Conclusion
This Parmesan-Crusted Lemon Chicken offers the perfect combination of crispiness and fresh, zesty flavor. Whether served as a casual family meal or as an elegant dinner with roasted vegetables and pasta, this recipe is a reliable crowd-pleaser. The simplicity of the preparation, paired with the sophisticated flavors of Parmesan and lemon, makes it a must-try for any home cook.
Make this chicken once, and it’s sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation!