Description
This Lemon Pecorino Crusted Chicken with Creamy Lemon Sauce is a delicious and elegant dish that combines the sharp, salty tang of Pecorino Romano cheese with a bright, creamy lemon sauce. Perfectly pan-seared and finished in the oven, this recipe delivers tender, flavorful chicken breasts coated with a crispy cheese crust and topped with a luscious sauce, making it ideal for a special dinner or a weeknight treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Coating
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup Pecorino Romano cheese, grated
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Creamy Lemon Sauce
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the chicken after searing.
- Season the Chicken: Season the boneless, skinless chicken breasts evenly with salt and pepper on both sides to enhance the flavor.
- Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, combine the grated Pecorino Romano cheese and all-purpose flour. Dredge each chicken breast in the mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even and thorough coating of the cheese and flour blend.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the coated chicken breasts in the skillet, searing for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust.
- Bake the Chicken: Transfer the seared chicken breasts to a baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Make the Creamy Lemon Sauce: Using the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic over medium heat for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the fresh lemon juice, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Serve: Plate the baked chicken breasts and spoon the creamy lemon sauce generously over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is patted dry before seasoning to help the coating stick better.
- Sear the chicken without overcrowding the pan to achieve a proper crust.
- Use freshly grated Pecorino Romano for best flavor and texture.
- You can adjust the thickness of the sauce by simmering it longer to reduce or adding additional chicken broth to thin.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
