Lemon Chicken Romano: A Delicious Recipe for a Flavorful Dinner

Lemon Chicken Romano is a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table. As I prepare this recipe, I can’t help but think about the rich culinary traditions that inspire it. Originating from Italian-American cuisine, Lemon Chicken Romano combines the zesty brightness of fresh lemons with the savory depth of Romano cheese, creating a harmonious balance that tantalizes the taste buds. This dish is not only a feast for the senses but also a convenient option for busy weeknights, as it comes together in just a matter of minutes.

People love Lemon Chicken Romano for its tender chicken, crispy coating, and the refreshing tang of lemon that elevates the entire meal. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a favorite among family and friends, whether served over a bed of pasta or alongside a crisp salad. Join me as we dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that promises to impress and satisfy everyone at your table!

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup grated Romano cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Chicken

1. Start by placing the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This helps the chicken cook evenly and stay tender. 2. Once pounded, season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken.

Preparing the Breading

3. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, grated Romano cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure that all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed. 4. In another shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. This will be your egg wash, which helps the breading stick to the chicken.

Breading the Chicken

5. Take each chicken breast and first dip it into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off. 6. Next, dredge the chicken in the flour and cheese mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres well. Make sure to coat both sides thoroughly. Place the breaded chicken on a plate and repeat this process for all the chicken breasts.

Cooking the Chicken

7. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Allow the butter to melt completely and start to bubble, but be careful not to let it brown. 8. Once the oil and butter are hot, carefully add the breaded chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan. 9. Cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. You can check for doneness by cutting into the thickest part of the chicken; it should be no longer pink and the juices should run clear. 10. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

Making the Lemon Sauce

11. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to low and add the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon; this adds great flavor to the sauce. 12. Allow the lemon juice to simmer for about 2-3 minutes, letting it reduce slightly. This will concentrate the flavors and create a delicious sauce. 13. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add a pinch of salt or a dash of black pepper if you feel it needs it.

Assembling the Dish

14. To serve, place a piece of the cooked chicken on each plate. Drizzle the lemon sauce generously over the top of the chicken. 15. For a pop of color and freshness, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the chicken. This not only adds a beautiful presentation but also enhances the flavor.

Serving Suggestions

16. Lemon Chicken Romano pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. I love serving it with a light arugula salad dressed with olive oil and lemon, or alongside some roasted vegetables for a wholesome meal. 17. You can also serve it with a side of pasta tossed in olive oil and garlic, or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious lemon sauce.

Storing Leftovers

18. If you have any leftovers, allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. 19. To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to keep it moist. Cover with a lid to help it heat through without drying out. 20. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to cover it to prevent it from becoming rubbery.

Conclusion:

In summary, this Lemon Chicken Romano recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners or impress guests at a gathering. The bright, zesty flavors of lemon combined with the savory notes of Romano cheese create a delightful dish that is both refreshing and satisfying. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy evenings or special occasions alike. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this dish with a side of garlic roasted vegetables or a light arugula salad to complement the citrusy notes of the chicken. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with variations by adding capers for a briny kick or swapping out the chicken for shrimp or even a plant-based protein for a delicious twist. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this Lemon Chicken Romano recipe a try! I’d love to hear about your experience, so don’t forget to share your thoughts and any personal touches you added. Cooking is all about creativity and making it your own, and I can’t wait to see how you make this dish uniquely yours. Happy cooking! Print