Zesty Lemon Pecorino Crispy Chicken Recipe

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Say hello to golden, crispy perfection with this Zesty Lemon Pecorino Crispy Chicken Recipe. Coated in a crunchy pecorino cheese and panko crust, then bathed in a vibrant lemon butter sauce, each bite delivers bold, tangy flavor with a savory, cheesy crunch. It’s the kind of dish that makes you close your eyes after the first bite.

Ideal for dinner parties or weeknight indulgence, this chicken brings gourmet flair to your plate without the fuss. With a perfect balance of brightness from the lemon and depth from aged cheese, it’s a satisfying twist on traditional breaded chicken.

Why You’ll Love This Zesty Lemon Pecorino Crispy Chicken Recipe

It’s light, crispy, juicy, and packed with zesty flavor. Unlike heavy cream-based dishes, this one is fresh and citrusy with a cheesy crust that actually holds its crunch. Plus, it’s easy enough for a Tuesday but fancy enough for guests. You can pan-fry or bake it—your choice!

What Makes This Chicken So Crispy and Flavorful?

The secret is in the coating. A mix of panko breadcrumbs and finely grated pecorino cheese creates the perfect golden crust. The lemon zest is incorporated directly into the breading for citrusy notes in every bite. Don’t skip the resting time after frying—it keeps the crust intact and ensures juicy meat. For maximum flavor, finish with a warm drizzle of homemade lemon butter sauce.

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Ingredients for the Zesty Lemon Pecorino Crispy Chicken Recipe

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in achieving that signature crunchy, cheesy, and zesty finish.

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: The base of the dish, pounded thin for even cooking and maximum crispiness.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: Extra crunchy texture that browns beautifully in a pan or oven.
• Pecorino Romano Cheese: Salty, nutty, and sharp—the star of the crust.
• Lemon Zest and Juice: Adds brightness and a citrusy zing to the crust and sauce.
• All-Purpose Flour: Helps the egg adhere to the chicken and forms the base of the breading.
• Eggs: Acts as the binding agent between the flour and panko mixture.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer.
• Garlic Powder: Adds a subtle savory depth to the crust.
• Unsalted Butter: Used to create the rich lemon butter sauce.
• Olive Oil: Ideal for pan-frying, gives a nice golden crisp without overpowering flavor.
• Fresh Parsley (optional): For garnish and a touch of herbal freshness.

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How To Make the Zesty Lemon Pecorino Crispy Chicken Recipe

With just a few simple steps, you can have crispy, golden chicken with a restaurant-worthy sauce.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness. Pat dry and season with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

Place flour in one shallow bowl, beaten eggs in another, and a mix of panko, pecorino, lemon zest, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a third.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

Dredge each piece in flour, dip in egg, then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb-pecorino mixture. Press firmly to adhere.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken 3–4 minutes per side or until golden and cooked through. Alternatively, bake at 400°F for 18–20 minutes on a wire rack over a baking sheet.

Step 5: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

In a small saucepan, melt butter and add lemon juice. Simmer briefly, stirring to combine. Season lightly with salt.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

Plate the crispy chicken and spoon lemon butter sauce over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon slices.

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How to Serve and Store This Zesty Lemon Pecorino Crispy Chicken Recipe

This crispy chicken is best served hot with the lemon butter sauce poured over just before serving to preserve the crunch. It’s perfect as a main dish for two to four people depending on portion sizes. Pair with simple sides to let the zesty flavor shine.

To store leftovers, allow the chicken to cool completely. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a hot oven or air fryer to revive the crispy texture. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it softens the crust. The lemon butter sauce can be stored separately and reheated gently on the stove.

What to Serve With Zesty Lemon Pecorino Crispy Chicken?

These fresh and flavorful pairings round out the meal perfectly:

H3: Creamy Mashed Potatoes

A smooth, buttery base that soaks up the lemon sauce beautifully.

H3: Sautéed Garlic Green Beans

Their crisp-tender texture contrasts nicely with the chicken.

H3: Lemon Herb Couscous

A light, zesty grain dish that echoes the citrus notes.

H3: Roasted Asparagus

Earthy and slightly charred, a great veggie side.

H3: Simple Arugula Salad

Peppery greens with a lemon vinaigrette keep things fresh and bright.

H3: Parmesan Polenta

Creamy with a touch of cheese, it complements the crunchy chicken crust.

H3: Garlic Bread

Because who doesn’t love garlic bread with a buttery sauce?

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Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If this Zesty Lemon Pecorino Crispy Chicken has you licking your plate clean, here are more delicious chicken recipes from NoraNosh you’ll want to try:

• Buttery Garlic Pork Chops — If you love savory crusts, these pork chops are a must.
• Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs — A fun twist perfect for game night or snacks.
• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta — Comforting and hearty, perfect after a busy day.
• Cheesy Zucchini Casserole — Want a cheesy veggie side? This one pairs great.
• Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna — For those wanting to explore a seafood variation.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest chicken board so you always have it on hand for your next craving.

Tried it with an air fryer? Used parmesan instead of pecorino? I’d love to hear how you personalized it! Drop your questions, tips, or swaps in the comments and let’s inspire each other.

Find even more flavor-packed recipes for every occasion at NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest and keep your weekly dinners exciting.

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