Parmesan Lemon Chicken Recipe – Easy Healthy Dinner Idea with Fresh Flavor
This Parmesan lemon chicken recipe is crispy, zesty, and flavorful, made with juicy chicken, Parmesan coating, and fresh lemon. Perfect for healthy dinners, family meals, or a quick weeknight recipe.
Equipment
- Meat mallet or rolling pin (for pounding chicken)
- Mixing bowls
- Shallow dishes for dredging
- Skillet or baking sheet
- Tongs
- Zester or grater
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded into cutlets)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (regular or panko)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for pan-frying)
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Extra Parmesan (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Prep Chicken: Pound chicken breasts into even cutlets for uniform cooking. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Coating Station: Place flour in one shallow dish, beaten eggs in another, and a mix of breadcrumbs and Parmesan in a third.
- Coat Chicken: Dredge each cutlet in flour, dip in egg wash, then press into Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
- Cook: Heat olive oil in a skillet. Pan-fry cutlets for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Alternatively, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes until crispy.
- Lemon Finish: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over cutlets and sprinkle with zest.
- Garnish: Add parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.Pro Tip: Rest chicken for 5 minutes before serving to lock in juices.
Notes
- Protein Swaps: Use turkey cutlets, fish fillets, or tofu for variety.
- Flavor Twists: Add garlic butter, chili flakes, or fresh herbs to the coating.
- Dietary Adjustments: Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs or dairy-free Parmesan.
- Serving Styles: Serve over pasta, rice, or salad for a complete meal.