Lemon Pecorino Crusted Chicken with Creamy Lemon Sauce Recipe

If you are craving a dish that perfectly balances tangy citrus, savory cheese, and crispy, golden chicken, you have to try this Lemon Pecorino Crusted Chicken with Creamy Lemon Sauce Recipe. This delightful meal brings together a crisp, cheesy crust made with Pecorino Romano and fragrant lemon zest, while the luscious creamy lemon sauce adds a silky, bright finish. It’s a true showstopper that’s surprisingly simple to prepare, making it perfect for weeknights or impressive weekend dinners. You’ll find every bite bursting with flavor and texture that feels both comforting and elegantly fresh.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this recipe lies in its straightforward, quality ingredients that come together in harmony to achieve that perfect balance of crispiness, tang, and creaminess. Each item plays an essential role—whether for flavor, texture, or that irresistible lemony zing.

• Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless for easy handling and quick cooking.
• Pecorino Romano cheese: Offers a sharp, salty kick to the crust that pairs beautifully with lemon.
• Italian seasoned breadcrumbs: Add a crunchy texture and herbs for depth of flavor.
• All-purpose flour: Helps the crust adhere to the chicken by creating a perfect base layer.
• Large eggs: Bind the crust ingredients to the chicken and add moisture.
• Lemon zest: Packs an aromatic punch that brightens the entire dish.
• Fresh lemon juice: Brings a fresh acidity that balances the richness of the cheese and cream.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate all the flavors.
• Olive oil: Used for searing to achieve a golden, crispy crust.
• Heavy cream: Creates a silky, indulgent sauce that harmonizes with the lemon.
• Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tang and complexity to the cream sauce.
• Fresh parsley: A fresh, herbaceous garnish that enhances the final presentation.

How to Make Lemon Pecorino Crusted Chicken with Creamy Lemon Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet

Begin by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This moderate temperature ensures the chicken cooks evenly after searing. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Mix the Crust Ingredients

In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Pecorino Romano cheese, Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, lemon zest, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground pepper. This mixture forms the flavorful crust that will give your chicken its signature texture and tang.

Step 3: Prepare the Egg Wash

Whisk together two large eggs and the fresh lemon juice in a separate shallow bowl. This liquid mixture ensures the crust sticks beautifully to the chicken while infusing a subtle lemon brightness right into the coating.

Step 4: Season the Flour

In a third shallow bowl, place the all-purpose flour and season it lightly with salt and pepper. This step might seem simple, but getting this base right guarantees the crust’s perfect adhesion.

Step 5: Coat the Chicken

Take each chicken breast and dredge it first in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip the chicken into the egg and lemon juice wash, allowing excess egg to drip off. Finally, coat the chicken thoroughly in the Pecorino-breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure every inch is covered.

Step 6: Sear for Golden Perfection

Heat a generous 1/4 cup of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the crusted chicken breasts carefully. Sear them for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until the crust is beautifully golden brown. Working in batches if needed avoids crowding the pan and helps retain that crispness.

Step 7: Bake the Chicken

Transfer the seared chicken breasts to your prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Baking through after searing ensures the chicken stays moist inside while the crust remains crunchy.

Step 8: Make the Creamy Lemon Sauce

While your chicken finishes baking, prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the heavy cream and Dijon mustard. Warm the mixture gently for 3 to 5 minutes, being careful not to let it boil to preserve the cream’s smooth texture.

Step 9: Add the Finishing Touches to the Sauce

Once warmed, stir in extra fresh lemon juice and season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Keep this lemony cream sauce warm until you’re ready to serve—it’s the luscious counterpart to your crispy chicken.

Step 10: Rest the Chicken

After you remove the chicken from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and tender beneath that delicious Pecorino crust.

Step 11: Serve with Style

Plate your lemon pecorino crusted chicken generously drizzled with the creamy lemon sauce and sprinkled with chopped fresh parsley. The vibrant green parsley adds a fresh note and a splash of color that makes this dish as beautiful as it is flavorful.

How to Serve Lemon Pecorino Crusted Chicken with Creamy Lemon Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a must for garnishing, adding both vibrant color and a subtle herbaceous lift. You can also add lemon wedges on the side to allow guests to squeeze extra fresh lemon juice for a zesty finish.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides like steamed asparagus or sautéed green beans to complement the richness. Creamy mashed potatoes or a fluffy risotto soak up the creamy lemon sauce deliciously, while a crisp mixed green salad adds texture and balances the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the chicken atop a bed of garlic-infused couscous or lemon-herb quinoa for a textured, wholesome meal. For a more rustic presentation, slice the chicken and fan it out on a wooden board alongside the sauce in a small bowl, perfect for family-style dining or entertaining guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover lemon pecorino crusted chicken should be cooled to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will keep well for 3 to 4 days, retaining much of its crispness when reheated carefully.

Freezing

If you want to save leftovers for longer, freeze the cooked chicken by wrapping each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then placing it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen chicken can last 2 to 3 months and is perfect for quick dinners when thawed.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to revive the crisp crust without drying out the meat. Reheat the creamy lemon sauce gently on the stove or in the microwave at low power, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and can add extra juiciness. Just keep an eye on cooking times as thighs sometimes take a little longer to cook through.

Is Pecorino Romano cheese essential for the crust?

While Pecorino Romano adds a wonderfully sharp, salty flavor, you could substitute with Parmesan in a pinch. Just keep in mind Pecorino has a distinct tang that really complements the lemon zest.

Can I make the creamy lemon sauce dairy-free?

Yes! Use full-fat coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative instead of heavy cream, and ensure your mustard is dairy-free. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious and creamy.

How can I make sure the crust stays crispy after baking?

Searing the chicken first is key for a crispy crust. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan, and let the chicken rest uncovered after baking to prevent sogginess from steam.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! The chicken and sauce can be prepared ahead and stored separately. Just reheat gently before serving to keep the textures and flavors fresh.

Final Thoughts

I truly believe once you try the Lemon Pecorino Crusted Chicken with Creamy Lemon Sauce Recipe, it’ll find a permanent place in your kitchen favorites. The delicious marriage of crispy cheese-crusted chicken and silky lemon sauce brightens any mealtime while feeling special enough for guests. Give it a go—you might end up making it your go-to comfort-meets-elegance dish!

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