If you’re looking for a dish that effortlessly combines zesty brightness with a satisfyingly crispy crunch, this Parmesan-Crusted Lemon Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need. Each tender chicken breast is lovingly coated in a golden Parmesan and breadcrumb crust, then baked with a luscious lemon butter sauce that brings a vibrant, tangy kick to every bite. This recipe strikes a perfect balance between savory and citrusy warmth, making it an absolute crowd-pleaser for weeknights or special dinners alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this recipe is a breeze, especially once you gather these simple yet powerful ingredients. Each one plays a specific role, whether it’s adding savory depth, crisp texture, or that citrusy pop of flavor that defines this dish.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The lean, tender star of the dish that soaks up all the flavors beautifully.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty richness and helps create the irresistible golden crust.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Provides the crunchy texture that contrasts perfectly with the juicy chicken.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for getting that crisp sear on the chicken in the skillet.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Gives the dish its signature fresh and zesty brightness.
- 4 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and creates the luscious lemon butter sauce you’ll pour over the chicken.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that bring all the flavors to life.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: Offers a pop of color and a fresh herbal note just before serving.
How to Make Parmesan-Crusted Lemon Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
First things first, set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready to finish off your chicken with a perfect bake that locks in moisture while crisping up the crust.
Step 2: Mix the Parmesan and Breadcrumbs
Combine the grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs in a bowl. This dynamic duo forms the crispy, flavorful coating that makes this recipe so unforgettable.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
Generously sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the chicken breasts. Seasoning early ensures every bite is perfectly flavorful from inside out.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Dredge each chicken breast in the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the crust sticks well. This step is crucial for that golden, crispy exterior.
Step 5: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Adding the chicken breasts now and cooking them for about 3-4 minutes per side will give the crust a beautiful golden color and seal in the juices.
Step 6: Prepare for Baking
Transfer the seared chicken to a baking dish. This sets the stage for the final oven-baked finish that ensures the inside is perfectly cooked.
Step 7: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter and stir in the lemon juice. This quick sauce brings a silky tang that enhances the rich Parmesan crust wonderfully.
Step 8: Pour the Sauce
Pour the lemon butter sauce over the chicken in your baking dish. This step infuses the whole dish with bright, zesty flavor that balances the richness of the crust.
Step 9: Bake to Perfection
Bake the chicken for 15-20 minutes in your preheated oven. This final step cooks the chicken through while maintaining all the crispiness and flavor.
Step 10: Garnish and Serve
Finish off by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley on top for a fresh, vibrant touch that also makes your chicken look irresistible.
How to Serve Parmesan-Crusted Lemon Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the classic choice — it adds color and a light herbal flavor that complements the tangy lemon perfectly. A thin lemon wedge on the side can also elevate the dish, allowing guests to add an extra splash of citrus if they wish.
Side Dishes
This Parmesan-Crusted Lemon Chicken pairs wonderfully with light, bright sides. Think garlic mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a simple mixed greens salad tossed with a lemon vinaigrette. These sides keep the meal balanced and fresh.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, try plating the chicken on a bed of wilted spinach or alongside vibrant roasted veggies for a splash of color. Drizzle a little of the leftover lemon butter sauce around the plate for a professional gourmet look that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover chicken tightly in foil or place it in an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, it will stay good for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
If you want to freeze the chicken, cool it completely first and place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It will keep well for up to 2 months. To enjoy later, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating carefully to avoid sogginess.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps maintain the crisp crust better than a microwave, which could make it soggy.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will work great and tend to stay juicier, though you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are fully cooked.
Is there a substitute for Parmesan cheese?
Pecorino Romano is a fantastic substitute that offers a similar salty, nutty flavor. Just keep in mind it’s a bit sharper, which can add a nice twist to the dish.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to keep the crust crispy without any gluten. You’ll still get all the flavor and texture that makes this recipe so special.
How can I make the crust crunchier?
Make sure to press the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture firmly onto the chicken for better adherence. Also, searing the chicken well before baking helps lock in the crunch.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can bread the chicken breasts and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just wait to bake until you’re ready to serve for the best texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Parmesan-Crusted Lemon Chicken Recipe is one of those meals that feels special without requiring a lot of fuss. It’s perfect for impressing family or friends and is so wonderfully satisfying you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again. Give it a try — your dinner table is about to get a whole lot brighter and tastier!
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Parmesan-Crusted Lemon Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Parmesan-Crusted Lemon Chicken is a flavorful and crispy baked chicken dish featuring tender chicken breasts coated in a savory Parmesan and breadcrumb crust, pan-seared to golden perfection and finished in the oven with a tangy lemon butter sauce. This easy-to-make recipe combines the richness of Parmesan with bright citrus notes, making it a delightful main course perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Chicken and Coating
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking and Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the chicken after searing.
- Prepare Coating Mixture: In a bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs thoroughly to create the crust mixture.
- Season Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Coat the Chicken: Dredge each seasoned chicken breast into the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly to ensure the coating adheres well.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the coated chicken breasts and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown crust.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Once seared, place the chicken breasts into a baking dish to finish cooking in the oven.
- Make Lemon Butter Sauce: Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add lemon juice and stir well to combine into a smooth sauce.
- Pour Sauce Over Chicken: Pour the prepared lemon butter sauce evenly over the chicken breasts in the baking dish to infuse them with citrus flavor.
- Bake the Chicken: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving for a fresh and colorful finish.
Notes
- You can use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy crust.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked through by checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute butter with olive oil and omit the Parmesan cheese, though flavor and texture will vary.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to retain juices and improve tenderness.
