Lemon Chicken Romano is a delightful dish that combines the crispy texture of breaded chicken cutlets with the zesty flavors of lemon and the richness of Romano cheese. This recipe offers a perfect balance of tangy and savory notes, making it an ideal choice for a comforting dinner. The addition of melted mozzarella and provolone cheeses elevates the dish, creating a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
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2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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1/2 cup (2 oz) shredded whole milk mozzarella cheese
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1/2 cup (2 oz) shredded provolone cheese (or more mozzarella)
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1 large egg
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1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
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3/4 cup panko bread crumbs
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1/3 cup (packed, 1.25 oz) finely shredded Romano cheese
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1 tablespoon minced fresh oregano, plus 1 more teaspoon for garnish
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2 teaspoons lemon zest (from about 1 lemon)
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper
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1/3 cup olive oil
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4 lemon wedges for spritzing each serving
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2 teaspoons minced fresh parsley (optional)
Directions
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Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Sprinkle each side of the chicken cutlets lightly with salt and let them stand at room temperature for 10 minutes.
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Set Up Dredging Stations: In one shallow dish, whisk together the flour and egg until smooth. In a second shallow dish, combine panko bread crumbs, Romano cheese, oregano, lemon zest, garlic powder, and black pepper.
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Coat the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Working with one cutlet at a time, dredge it in the egg mixture, coating both sides and allowing excess to run off. Then, transfer to the panko mixture, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere to both sides.
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Pan-Fry the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a 10-inch non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the coated chicken cutlets and fry without moving them until the bottom is crispy and golden brown, about 2 minutes. Flip the cutlets and cook for another 2 minutes until golden brown on the other side.
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Bake with Cheese: Transfer the fried chicken cutlets to a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Sprinkle the tops with the shredded mozzarella and provolone cheeses.
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Finish in the Oven: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C), about 8–10 minutes.
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Garnish and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and sprinkle with the remaining 1 teaspoon of oregano and minced parsley, if using. Serve the chicken hot with lemon wedges for spritzing over each serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
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Calories: Approximately 500 kcal
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Total Fat: 39g (60% DV)
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Saturated Fat: 15g (94% DV)
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Cholesterol: 105mg (35% DV)
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Sodium: 780mg (34% DV)
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Total Carbohydrates: 12g (4% DV)
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Dietary Fiber: 1g (4% DV)
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Sugars: 1g
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Protein: 23g (46% DV)
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Vitamin A: 625 IU (13% DV)
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Vitamin C: 1.3mg (2% DV)
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Calcium: 629mg (63% DV)
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Iron: 1.8mg (10% DV)
Why Lemon Chicken Romano Is a Crowd-Pleaser
One of the main reasons Lemon Chicken Romano is such a popular dish is its ability to cater to a wide range of tastes. The crispy coating of panko breadcrumbs combined with the tangy lemon and savory Romano cheese creates an explosion of flavors that appeals to almost everyone. Whether you’re serving it to picky eaters or culinary enthusiasts, this dish has something for everyone.
The crispy chicken cutlets serve as a hearty base, while the cheese and lemon add a fresh, flavorful punch. The combination of mozzarella and provolone cheeses brings an additional layer of creaminess, making the dish even more indulgent. Furthermore, the inclusion of fresh oregano and parsley adds a burst of herbal freshness that balances the richness of the other ingredients.
This dish is also incredibly versatile and can be paired with a wide range of sides. From simple green salads and roasted vegetables to creamy mashed potatoes or pasta, the options for accompaniment are endless. Its ease of preparation and crowd-pleasing flavors make it a go-to meal for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or even dinner parties.
The Health Benefits of Lemon Chicken Romano
Although Lemon Chicken Romano is undeniably indulgent, it does offer several nutritional benefits, especially when compared to other rich, fried chicken dishes. Let’s take a closer look at the health benefits of this dish.
Protein-Packed Chicken
Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle growth, and maintaining a healthy immune system. The chicken in this dish provides a high-quality protein source without excessive fat, making it a healthy option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.
Rich in Calcium
The Romano cheese used in this recipe is not only delicious but also a great source of calcium. Calcium plays a crucial role in maintaining strong bones and teeth, as well as supporting nerve function, muscle function, and blood clotting. When combined with the mozzarella and provolone cheeses, this dish provides a good amount of calcium, making it a great option for promoting bone health.
Vitamins and Minerals from Fresh Herbs and Lemon
Fresh oregano and parsley not only add wonderful flavor to the dish but also contribute essential vitamins and minerals. Oregano is known for its antibacterial and antioxidant properties, while parsley is an excellent source of Vitamin K, Vitamin C, and folate. Additionally, the lemon zest provides Vitamin C, which supports immune function and skin health.
While this dish is rich in flavor and indulgence, it can also be part of a balanced meal when paired with nutritious sides, making it suitable for various dietary needs.
Tips for Perfecting Lemon Chicken Romano
While the recipe is fairly straightforward, a few tips can help ensure that your Lemon Chicken Romano turns out perfectly every time.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh herbs like oregano and parsley. Freshly grated Romano cheese also offers superior flavor compared to pre-grated varieties. Fresh lemon zest adds a more vibrant citrus flavor, enhancing the overall dish.
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Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allowing the chicken to rest at room temperature for about 10 minutes before cooking helps the meat cook more evenly. This ensures a tender and juicy interior while maintaining a crispy exterior.
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Achieve the Perfect Crispy Coating: When breading the chicken, press the breadcrumbs gently into the chicken to ensure they adhere properly. This step is crucial for achieving that golden, crispy coating.
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Cook at the Right Temperature: Ensure that the oil is hot before adding the chicken. This helps to sear the breadcrumbs, locking in the flavors and creating that crispy texture. Also, be sure to finish the chicken in the oven to ensure it reaches the perfect internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
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Serve Immediately: While this dish can be kept warm, it is best served fresh to maintain the crispy texture of the breading. Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra burst of flavor right before serving.
How to Serve Lemon Chicken Romano
Lemon Chicken Romano is a dish that can be served in a variety of ways, making it a versatile addition to any meal plan. Here are some great ideas for sides and accompaniments to serve with this dish:
Classic Sides
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Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like asparagus, carrots, or Brussels sprouts add a healthy and flavorful contrast to the richness of the chicken. The earthy flavors of roasted vegetables pair perfectly with the zesty lemon and creamy cheese.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: For a heartier side, serve the chicken with creamy garlic mashed potatoes. The smooth and velvety texture of the potatoes complements the crispy chicken, creating a satisfying meal.
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Pasta with Lemon Butter Sauce: For an Italian twist, serve the chicken alongside a simple pasta dressed in a light lemon butter sauce. The pasta absorbs the citrusy notes, creating a harmonious combination of flavors.
Salads and Light Options
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Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine lettuce, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons makes for a great accompaniment to the lemony chicken. The richness of the Caesar dressing balances out the bright and zesty chicken.
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Mixed Green Salad: For a lighter, healthier side, serve the chicken with a fresh mixed green salad. Include ingredients like arugula, spinach, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers for a refreshing contrast to the savory dish.
Conclusion
Lemon Chicken Romano is a flavorful and versatile dish that combines crispy, breaded chicken with the richness of Romano cheese and the zesty brightness of lemon. Its balance of tangy and savory flavors, along with its satisfying textures, make it an excellent choice for any meal. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or as part of a larger spread, this dish is sure to delight your guests and loved ones alike.
With its rich flavor, nutritional benefits, and ease of preparation, Lemon Chicken Romano is a recipe worth adding to your repertoire. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that feels both indulgent and wholesome, making it a perfect choice for those looking to impress with a home-cooked meal.