Here’s a Zesty Lemon Pecorino Crispy Chicken recipe that’s bright, savory, and perfectly crunchy. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and pairs great with roasted vegetables, salad, or pasta.
🍋 Zesty Lemon Pecorino Crispy Chicken
Serves: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20–25 minutes
🧂 Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
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4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (pounded to even thickness)
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper
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Zest of 1 lemon
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1 tsp lemon juice
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
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1/2 cup Pecorino Romano cheese, finely grated
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1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
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1/4 cup plain breadcrumbs
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1/4 cup all-purpose flour
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2 eggs, beaten
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1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional, for extra zing)
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2 tbsp olive oil (for pan-frying)
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
🥣 Instructions:
1. Prep the Chicken:
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Season the chicken with salt, pepper, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
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Let it marinate for 10–15 minutes while preparing the breading.
2. Prepare the Breading Station:
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Bowl 1: Flour
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Bowl 2: Eggs mixed with Dijon mustard (optional)
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Bowl 3: Combine Pecorino, panko, plain breadcrumbs, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Bread the Chicken:
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Dredge each piece in flour, then dip in the egg mixture, then press into the breadcrumb-Pecorino mix, coating thoroughly.
4. Cook:
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add chicken and cook 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F / 74°C).
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For extra crispiness, finish in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 5–7 minutes.
5. Serve:
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Garnish with more lemon zest and chopped parsley.
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Serve with a squeeze of lemon over the top.
🥗 Serving Suggestions:
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Arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
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Garlic roasted potatoes
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Lemon butter pasta
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Grilled asparagus