Italian Lemon Pecorino Chicken is a zesty, flavorful dish combining tender chicken with the bright acidity of lemon and the savory richness of Pecorino Romano cheese. It’s perfect for a comforting yet elegant meal. Here’s a recipe to try:
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, if preferred)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional; can substitute with more chicken broth)
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 1-2 lemons)
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 2 tbsp heavy cream (optional, for a creamier sauce)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon slices, for garnish
Directions:
- Prep the chicken:
- Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch thick). This ensures even cooking.
- Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper. Dredge the chicken lightly in flour, shaking off any excess.
- Cook the chicken:
- Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate. Cover to keep warm.
- Make the sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Deglaze the pan with white wine (if using), scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let the wine simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Stir in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.
- Finish the sauce:
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Pecorino Romano cheese, whisking to melt it into the sauce. Add the heavy cream if using, for a richer sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Serve:
- Transfer the chicken to a serving plate and pour the sauce over it. Garnish with fresh parsley, lemon zest, and lemon slices.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Italian Lemon Pecorino Chicken over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Pair it with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Enjoy this tangy, cheesy, and satisfying dish—it’s sure to impress at any dinner!
