Lemon Pecorino Crusted Chicken with Creamy Lemon Sauce Recipe

Get ready to fall head over heels for this Lemon Pecorino Crusted Chicken with Creamy Lemon Sauce! Each bite delivers juicy, perfectly crusted chicken enveloped in a bright, velvety citrus sauce that’s pure comfort. This recipe takes simple pantry staples and transforms them into a meal worthy of a special occasion—or simply a weeknight upgrade.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

This Lemon Pecorino Crusted Chicken with Creamy Lemon Sauce relies on just a few standout ingredients, each one bringing its own magic to the table. Here’s what makes every component essential for flavor, texture, and that irresistible golden crust:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The ultimate blank canvas—juicy and hearty, they perfectly showcase the flavors of the crust and sauce.
• Pecorino Romano cheese, grated: Sharp and salty, Pecorino forms a gorgeous crispy crust and delivers a punch of umami.
• All-purpose flour: Helps the cheese stick to the chicken, ensuring even browning and that coveted crunch.
• Olive oil: For searing the chicken to a golden, crispy finish that holds up in the oven.
• Fresh lemon juice: Brings the zing! Fresh lemon lifts the dish and balances the richness of the cheese and cream.
• Chicken broth: Adds savory depth and keeps the sauce from being too heavy.
• Heavy cream: The foundation of the creamy lemon sauce, making every bite feel oh-so-luxurious.
• Garlic, minced: A gentle background flavor that melds with lemon for a real Italian kiss.
• Salt and pepper: Because seasonings matter—a little goes a long way to brighten the whole dish.
• Fresh parsley, chopped: For a pop of color and fresh, herby lift at the very end.

Variations

One of the best things about Lemon Pecorino Crusted Chicken with Creamy Lemon Sauce is how easy it is to tweak for your family’s cravings, favorite flavors, or what you have on hand. Make it your own with these delicious ideas:

• Swap the Cheese: Try Parmesan or Asiago for a slightly different flavor profile, or even a gluten-free breadcrumb and Pecorino blend for extra crunch.
• Add Herbs to the Crust: Mix in chopped thyme, rosemary, or basil with your cheese and flour mixture to tailor the flavors to your mood.
• Make it Dairy-Free: Use a quality dairy-free Parmesan alternative and your favorite non-dairy cream for the sauce—the results will still be dreamy.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle, lingering heat that plays beautifully with the citrus.

How to Make Lemon Pecorino Crusted Chicken with Creamy Lemon Sauce

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Begin by patting the chicken breasts dry and seasoning both sides generously with salt and pepper. A dry surface and a little seasoning set the stage for a beautiful, flavorful crust.

Step 2: Make the Pecorino Crust

In a shallow dish, combine the grated Pecorino Romano and all-purpose flour. Dredge each chicken breast thoroughly in this mixture, pressing gently so that the cheese really clings. This is your ticket to an ultra-crispy coating that won’t fall off in the pan or oven.

Step 3: Sear for Golden Goodness

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When it shimmers, add the prepared chicken and sear on both sides—about 3–4 minutes per side—until you have a gorgeous, golden crust. Work in batches if needed to avoid crowding the pan and keep that crust intact.

Step 4: Bake to Juicy Perfection

Transfer the seared chicken to a baking dish. Slide the dish into the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (juices run clear and internal temp reaches 165°F/74°C). This ensures the chicken stays moist—and frees up your stovetop.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Lemon Sauce

While the chicken bakes, it’s sauce time! In the same skillet, lower the heat and add the minced garlic, sautéing for about a minute. Pour in lemon juice, chicken broth, and heavy cream, scraping up those golden bits from the pan. Gently simmer for five minutes until the sauce thickens just slightly—it’ll coat the back of your spoon and smell absolutely divine.

Step 6: Serve and Savor

Arrange the hot chicken breasts on plates or a platter, then generously spoon the creamy lemon sauce over each one. Finish with a scatter of fresh chopped parsley for a happy pop of color and flavor.

How to Serve Lemon Pecorino Crusted Chicken with Creamy Lemon Sauce

Garnishes

For the prettiest plate (and a subtle burst of flavor), sprinkle on fresh chopped parsley and add a few extra lemon wedges on the side. A little grated Pecorino over the top never hurt anyone, either!

Side Dishes

This dish is magic with simply steamed asparagus, buttered green beans, or a crisp garden salad. It also shines atop a cloud of mashed potatoes, fluffly rice, or a pile of angel hair pasta to soak up every last drop of creamy lemon sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the chicken and fanning it out over the sauce for a “bistro” look, or plate it family style on a wooden board with generous swirls of sauce. For a festive dinner, stack individual portions with wilted spinach or grilled vegetables and drizzle with extra lemon cream.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Lemon Pecorino Crusted Chicken with Creamy Lemon Sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Keep the sauce separate if possible to maintain the chicken’s signature crispiness.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken breasts (without the sauce) in a tightly wrapped container for up to two months. The sauce is best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for up to three days and gently reheated.

Reheating

Reheat chicken gently in a 350°F oven until just warmed through, or use a covered skillet with a splash of broth. Warm the sauce separately on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often to bring back its creaminess.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dinner that’s equal parts comforting, lively, and impressive, Lemon Pecorino Crusted Chicken with Creamy Lemon Sauce is a total game-changer. I can’t wait for you to see how quickly it vanishes and becomes a favorite in your kitchen too. Give it a try—you’ll be dreaming of those sunny citrus vibes and golden pecorino crust for days!

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