🍋 Parmesan Crusted Lemon Chicken
Crispy, golden, and bursting with zesty flavor this chicken is a total dinner winner!
If you’re craving something quick, flavorful, and satisfying, this Parmesan Crusted Lemon Chicken is your go-to. Juicy chicken breasts are coated in a savory Parmesan crust with a kick of lemon zest and spice — pan-fried to perfection and ready in under 30 minutes.
🧂 Ingredients:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut in half horizontally to make 4 cutlets)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Zest of 1 lemon
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup panko or regular breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (about half a lemon)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or unsalted butter (for frying)
- Fresh parsley or lemon wedges, for garnish (optional)
🔥 Instructions:
1. Prep the chicken:
Place chicken cutlets between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper and gently pound to even thickness (about ½ inch thick). Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. Set up your dredging station:
- In one bowl, beat the egg with lemon juice.
- In another shallow dish, mix Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and lemon zest.
3. Coat the chicken:
Dip each chicken piece in the egg mixture, then press into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture until evenly coated. Pat the coating on firmly to help it stick.
4. Cook the chicken:
Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp of 165°F / 74°C).
5. Serve:
Remove from skillet and let rest for 2–3 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or lemon wedges. Serve with a side of roasted veggies, salad, mashed potatoes, or buttery pasta.
🍽️ Tips & Variations:
- Cheese matters: Use finely grated Parmesan (not shredded) for best crust adherence.
- Crunch boost: Add a tablespoon of crushed cornflakes or crushed crackers to the breadcrumb mix.
- Lighter version: Bake at 400°F (200°C) on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
📌 Quick Facts:
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Calories: ~350 kcal per serving (approx.)
This Parmesan Crusted Lemon Chicken is crisp on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with lemony zing. A perfect combo of comfort and freshness in every bite!
Let me know if you’d like this in printable format, Pinterest pin, or meal-prep version! 🍋✨
