Lemon Pecorino Crusted Chicken with Creamy Lemon Sauce is a dish that will tantalize your taste buds and elevate your dinner game. Picture this: tender chicken coated in a zesty, cheesy crust that crackles with every bite, all smothered in a luxurious creamy lemon sauce that feels like a warm hug from the inside. This dish is not only delicious but also perfect for impressing guests or simply indulging yourself after a long day.

As I stood in my kitchen, surrounded by the delightful chaos of cooking, I recalled the first time I attempted to make this recipe. It was one of those evenings where everything seemed to go wrong—my oven was temperamental, and I forgot to buy half the ingredients. But as I tasted the final product, that explosion of flavors made every mishap worth it. So whether you’re hosting a fancy dinner party or just looking to treat yourself on a Tuesday night, this Lemon Pecorino Crusted Chicken with Creamy Lemon Sauce is bound to become a favorite.

Ingredients for Lemon Pecorino Crusted Chicken with Creamy Lemon Sauce

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts will work well; adjust based on serving needs.
• Pecorino Romano Cheese: Look for freshly grated cheese for maximum flavor and texture.
• Breadcrumbs: Use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs to add crunch; panko works great too.
• Fresh Lemons: Choose juicy lemons; you’ll need both zest and juice for this recipe.
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds an aromatic kick; crush them for better flavor release.
• Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil elevates the dish’s richness.

For the Sauce:

• Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth so you can control the saltiness of the sauce.
• Cream Alternative (like coconut cream): Adds creaminess without dairy; choose unsweetened varieties.
• Agar-Agar Powder: Use this plant-based gelling agent if you want to thicken your sauce without gelatin.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

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How to Make Lemon Pecorino Crusted Chicken with Creamy Lemon Sauce

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, grab a baking dish and spray it lightly with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season them generously with salt and pepper. This step ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 3: Make the Coating

In a mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs, grated Pecorino Romano cheese, lemon zest, and minced garlic. Drizzle in some olive oil until everything is well moistened—it should resemble wet sand.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Take each chicken breast and coat it thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. Press down firmly so it sticks—this will give you that glorious crust we’re aiming for!

Step 5: Bake

Place the coated chicken breasts in your prepared baking dish and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and are beautifully golden brown.

Step 6: Prepare Your Sauce

While the chicken is baking, whisk together chicken broth, cream alternative, lemon juice, and agar-agar powder in a saucepan over medium heat until thickened slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Once everything is cooked through and bubbly, transfer your perfectly baked chicken onto plates and drizzle generously with creamy lemon sauce for that final touch of decadence! Enjoy every mouthful as you savor the layers of flavor that come together in this delightful dish.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

First, sear your chicken to lock in those juicy flavors. While it’s sizzling, whip up the creamy lemon sauce and prepare your side dish like roasted veggies or rice. This multitasking method ensures everything is ready at once and maximizes flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of the usual parsley. Want a kick? Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the creamy lemon sauce. You can also swap out the chicken for turkey or beef for different flavor profiles.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring that the chicken remains tender and moist.

The first time I served this dish, my friends couldn’t stop raving about it! They even asked for seconds—and you know it’s a hit when they want to take leftovers home!

FAQs

What is Lemon Pecorino Crusted Chicken with Creamy Lemon Sauce?

Lemon Pecorino Crusted Chicken with Creamy Lemon Sauce is a flavorful dish featuring tender chicken coated in a zesty lemon and pecorino cheese crust. The creamy sauce complements the crispy crust, adding richness to each bite. This recipe makes for an impressive meal that balances savory and tangy flavors beautifully. Using chicken instead of pork ensures a versatile option suitable for various palates.

How do I prepare the Lemon Pecorino Crusted Chicken?

To prepare Lemon Pecorino Crusted Chicken, start by seasoning the chicken. Create a mixture of grated pecorino cheese, breadcrumbs, lemon zest, and herbs. Coat the chicken in this mixture and bake until golden and cooked through. For the creamy lemon sauce, combine vegetable broth, lemon juice, and a plant-based gelling agent like agar-agar to achieve the desired consistency. Serve together for a delicious meal.

Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?

Yes, you can customize this recipe based on your preferences. For example, if you prefer turkey or lamb, feel free to use those proteins instead of chicken. Similarly, switch out vegetable broth for chicken broth if you desire a richer flavor profile. Adjustments will still yield a delightful Lemon Pecorino Crusted dish that maintains its core essence while catering to your taste.

What sides pair well with Lemon Pecorino Crusted Chicken?

Lemon Pecorino Crusted Chicken pairs beautifully with several side dishes. Consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts for a colorful plate. A light citrus salad can also complement the flavors of the dish perfectly. Additionally, creamy mashed potatoes or quinoa provide satisfying starch options to round out your meal.

Conclusion for Lemon Pecorino Crusted Chicken with Creamy Lemon Sauce

In summary, Lemon Pecorino Crusted Chicken with Creamy Lemon Sauce is an exquisite dish that combines crunchy textures with rich flavors. This recipe allows for various protein substitutions while ensuring everyone enjoys its delightful taste. Pair it with fresh sides to enhance your dining experience further. Enjoy this dish at your next gathering or family dinner; it’s sure to impress!

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Lemon Pecorino Crusted Chicken with Creamy Lemon Sauce

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Lemon Pecorino Crusted Chicken with Creamy Lemon Sauce is a delightful culinary experience that combines tender chicken coated in a zesty, cheesy crust with a rich, creamy lemon sauce. This dish is perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a comforting meal. With its vibrant flavors and appealing presentation, it’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 1 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
• 1 cup plain breadcrumbs (or panko)
• Zest and juice of 2 fresh lemons
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• ½ cup unsweetened cream alternative (like coconut cream)
• 1 tsp agar-agar powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Pat the chicken dry and season with salt and pepper.
3. In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Pecorino cheese, lemon zest, minced garlic, and olive oil until moistened.
4. Coat each chicken breast with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly to adhere.
5. Place the coated chicken in the baking dish and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
6. While baking, whisk together chicken broth, cream alternative, lemon juice, and agar-agar in a saucepan over medium heat until thickened. Season to taste.
7. Serve baked chicken drizzled with creamy lemon sauce.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce (about 8 oz)
• Calories: 440
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: Enhance flavor by adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. Substitute turkey or pork for different protein options. Pair this dish with roasted vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal.