Description
Introducing the Lemon Pecorino Chicken Delight, a succulent chicken recipe that combines the zest of lemon with the robust flavor of Pecorino Romano cheese. This dish revolves around tender chicken tenderloins ensconced in a crispy panko crust, infused with lemon zest and topped with a creamy, aromatic lemon sauce. Ideal for anyone looking to elevate their dinner repertoire, this recipe promises a mouthwatering meal that will satisfy both family and guests alike.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 (2-ounce) chicken tenderloins
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1/4 cup milk
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Prep the Tenderloins: Gently flatten the chicken tenderloins using a meat mallet to an even thickness to ensure uniform cooking.
- Set Up Breading Station: Prepare three bowls for the breading process: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and another combining panko breadcrumbs, lemon zest, and grated Pecorino Romano cheese.
- Dredge the Chicken: Coat each tenderloin first in flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally cover completely with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a mixture of olive oil and butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 3-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked. Drain on paper towels. Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding, if necessary.
- Sauté the Garlic: For the sauce, start by heating olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce Base: Whisk in flour to the sautéed garlic, cooking briefly before gradually adding the milk, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring regularly, until the sauce thickens (about 3-5 minutes).
- Finish the Sauce: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in lemon juice and a tablespoon of butter, mixing until the sauce is smooth and velvety.
- Prep Time: 10-15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes