Introduction

If you’re craving a dish that’s both crispy and creamy with a burst of fresh lemon flavor, this Lemon Pecorino Crusted Chicken with Creamy Lemon Sauce is just what you need. The tender chicken is coated in a zesty, cheesy breadcrumb crust and paired with a luscious lemon sauce, creating a meal that’s elegant enough for entertaining yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for You

This recipe is perfect for anyone who enjoys a balance of textures and flavors in their meals. The crispy, golden-brown chicken combined with the rich and tangy lemon sauce makes each bite a delight. It’s a dish that’s sure to impress family and guests alike, and it’s surprisingly easy to prepare.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 8 (2-ounce) chicken tenderloins
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Zest from 1 lemon
• ¼ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter

For the Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup milk
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon butter

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Flatten the chicken tenderloins to an even thickness using a meat mallet. Set up three dredging stations: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs, lemon zest, and Pecorino cheese.
2. Cook the Chicken: In a large nonstick sauté pan, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Fry the chicken until golden and cooked through, about 3-5 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
3. Make the Sauce: In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant. Whisk in flour, then gradually add milk, cream, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil and simmer until thickened, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and butter.
4. Serve: Drizzle the creamy lemon sauce over the crispy chicken before serving. Enjoy your meal with a side of vegetables or pasta.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Meat mallet
• Three shallow bowls for dredging
• Large nonstick sauté pan
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Tongs

Tips and Shortcuts

• Even Cooking: Flattening the chicken tenderloins ensures they cook evenly and quickly, giving you perfectly crispy results every time.
• Fresh Zest: Use fresh lemon zest for the best flavor. It adds a bright, citrusy note that pairs beautifully with the Pecorino cheese.
• Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out with a little more chicken broth or milk until it reaches your desired consistency.

Recipe Swaps and Variations

• Cheese Swap: Try substituting Pecorino Romano with Parmesan or Asiago for a slightly different flavor.
• Herb Addition: Add fresh herbs like parsley or basil to the breadcrumb mixture for added flavor and color.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a hint of spice.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken and sauce separately to maintain the crispiness of the chicken. The sauce can be reheated in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed.