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Crispy Zesty Lemon Pecorino Chicken

Crispy Zesty Lemon Pecorino Chicken for Easy Weeknight Wins

This Crispy Zesty Lemon Pecorino Chicken offers a gourmet flavor experience in just 30 minutes.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 pieces
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 480

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Coating
  • 1 pound Chicken Tenderloins The main protein source, providing tenderness and juiciness.
  • 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour A crucial dredging agent; swap for gluten-free flour if needed.
  • 2 Large Eggs Helps bind the breadcrumbs to the chicken; consider flax eggs for vegan.
  • 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs Offers a satisfying crunch; regular breadcrumbs can be used instead.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Zest Infuses the dish with vibrant citrus flavor; use freshly zested lemons.
  • 1/2 cup Pecorino Romano Cheese Elevates the dish with its sharp flavor; grated Parmesan is a good substitute.
For Cooking
  • 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil Perfect for frying, ensuring richness and taste; avocado oil can be substituted.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Adds richness; vegan butter works for a dairy-free version.
For the Creamy Sauce
  • 2 cloves Minced Garlic Brings depth and aroma; freshly minced is recommended.
  • 1 cup Milk Contributes to creaminess; whole or 2% is ideal, almond milk fits dairy-free.
  • 1/2 cup Heavy Cream Thickens the sauce; half-and-half can be a lighter alternative.
  • 1 cup Chicken Broth Deepens the flavor; substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Adds a burst of acidity; always use freshly squeezed for brightness.

Equipment

  • nonstick pan
  • shallow bowls
  • Meat mallet
  • saucepan

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare the chicken by flattening the chicken tenderloins to an even thickness using a meat mallet, aiming for about ½ inch thick.
  2. Set up a dredging station with shallow bowls: one for flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for panko breadcrumbs mixed with lemon zest and Pecorino.
  3. Take each chicken tenderloin and dredge it first in flour, then in beaten eggs, and finally press into the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
  4. Heat a mixture of olive oil and butter in a large nonstick pan over medium heat until shimmering.
  5. Carefully place the coated chicken tenderloins into the pan, frying each piece for about 3-5 minutes on each side until golden-brown.
  6. While frying, sauté minced garlic in a separate saucepan in olive oil, whisk in flour, then gradually add milk, heavy cream, and chicken broth, stirring continuously.
  7. Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and butter for a rich sauce.
  8. Plate the crispy chicken and drizzle with the creamy sauce to serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1pieceCalories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 36gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 750mgPotassium: 680mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Serve with sides like creamy risotto or a fresh salad to enhance the dining experience.

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