Print

Zesty Lemon Pecorino Crusted Chicken

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Zesty Lemon Pecorino Crusted Chicken is a crispy, golden chicken dish bursting with fresh lemon zest and nutty Pecorino Romano cheese. The crunchy coating locks in juicy flavor, making it a bright, elegant meal that’s simple enough for weeknights and special enough for guests.

  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baked or Pan-Fried
  • Cuisine: Italian-Inspired

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest (freshly grated)
  • 1/2 cup Pecorino Romano cheese, finely grated
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs or regular breadcrumbs
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2–3 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (for brushing or frying)
  • Optional: chopped fresh parsley or lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C), or heat oil in a skillet over medium heat for pan-frying.
  2. Set up a dredging station: flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and in a third bowl mix breadcrumbs, Pecorino, lemon zest, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Pat chicken dry. Dredge each piece in flour, dip in egg, and coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing to adhere well.
  4. For baking: Place coated chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush lightly with olive oil or melted butter. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and cooked through.
  5. For pan-frying: Cook chicken in a lightly oiled skillet for 4–5 minutes per side, until crisp and cooked through. Transfer to paper towels to drain.
  6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

  • Parmesan cheese can be used instead of Pecorino for a milder flavor.
  • Red pepper flakes add a spicy kick if mixed into the breading.
  • Use almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
  • Air fry at 375°F for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway for a lighter option.
  • Letting the coated chicken rest before cooking helps the crust stick better.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://juliameals.com/zesty-lemon-pecorino-crusted-chicken/