Lemon Pecorino Crusted Chicken

Name: Lemon Pecorino Crusted Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese; Zest and juice of 2 large fresh lemons; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or thyme; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: June 14, 2025

by Lionel Ramon

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Lemon Pecorino Crusted Chicken is simple to prepare yet incredibly flavorful
The golden crust adds visual appeal that impresses guests instantly
Ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike
The creamy lemon sauce brings everything together for an unforgettable meal

Every time I make this dish, my friends’ reactions range from “Wow!” to “Can I have seconds?” It’s become a staple at our potlucks and family gatherings.

Essential Ingredients

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

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, adjusting based on how many people I’m feeding.
Pecorino Romano Cheese: Use freshly grated cheese for optimal flavor and better melting qualities.
Fresh Lemons: Choose ripe lemons for juiciness; zesting them can really amp up the flavor profile.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds depth; opt for firm cloves to ensure maximum pungency.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil works best for drizzling and crisping up that flavorful crust.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley or thyme complements the dish beautifully; fresh herbs elevate any meal.

For the Sauce:

Heavy Cream: Adds a luxurious texture to your sauce; ensure it’s full-fat for creaminess.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels; it enhances flavor without overpowering.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings; adjust them according to taste preferences.

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

Let’s Make it together

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with nonstick spray or olive oil. Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure even cooking. healthy veggie side dish Season both sides generously with salt and pepper, allowing flavors to penetrate.

Prepare the crust by grating Pecorino Romano cheese into a bowl. Mix in finely chopped garlic cloves and some lemon zest for an extra zing. The combination of these ingredients creates an irresistible topping that will make your guests swoon.

Next, dip each seasoned chicken breast into olive oil before coating it with the cheese mixture. Press down gently so each piece is well-coated—this is where we lock in all those delightful flavors! Place coated chicken in your prepared baking dish.

Bake chicken in preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until it’s golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). While it’s baking, let’s whip up that creamy lemon sauce! In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir occasionally until heated through but not boiling. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Garlic Sauce Chicken recipe.

Once combined well, add more lemon juice and zest for brightness along with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer gently until slightly thickened—this should take about 5-7 minutes tops! If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some fresh herbs at this stage; they’ll bring freshness right into every bite!

When the chicken is done baking, remove it from oven and let it rest for a few minutes—this helps keep it juicy! Serve each portion drizzled generously with that luscious creamy lemon sauce on top. Garnish with extra herbs if desired—because who doesn’t love a little flair?

Enjoy every bite of this Lemon Pecorino Crusted Chicken with Creamy Lemon Sauce—it might just become your new favorite dish! creamy pasta dish.

You Must Know

This delightful Lemon Pecorino Crusted Chicken with Creamy Lemon Sauce is a game-changer
The zesty flavor pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce, creating a delicious harmony that’s perfect for any occasion
Serve it with a side of veggies for a colorful plate

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken for that golden crust, then prepare the creamy lemon sauce while the chicken finishes baking to ensure everything stays hot and flavorful. flavorful chicken salad recipe.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out Pecorino cheese for Parmesan or add herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate the dish further and add your unique flair.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, keeping that crust crispy.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For the best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight if time allows; this enhances tenderness and taste
Always use fresh lemons for maximum zing—dried lemon juice just doesn’t cut it!
Finally, let the chicken rest before slicing to keep all those tasty juices inside

Cooking this Lemon Pecorino Crusted Chicken brought back memories of family dinners where everyone gathered around, savoring each bite and sharing laughter over stories of culinary disasters.

FAQ

Can I use other cheeses besides Pecorino?

Yes, Parmesan or even Gouda can give a different yet delicious flavor profile.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F when perfectly cooked.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Roasted vegetables or garlic mashed potatoes complement the flavors wonderfully.

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