Lemon Panko Chicken
There’s something truly special about the simplicity of the Lemon Panko Chicken. Picture a busy weeknight when you want to serve something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. This dish brings all the flavors of fresh lemon and crispy panko to your table with minimal effort. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma of lemon zest filled the air as I prepped, and my family couldn’t wait to dig in! It’s become a go-to in our household, and I can’t wait to share this recipe with you.
Recipe Snapshot
26 mins
10 mins
16 mins
Medium
320 kcal
30 g
Paleo, Low FODMAP
15 g
shallow bowl or pie plate, measuring spoons, citrus zester, fork, cutting board or cutting mat, plastic wrap, meat mallet or rolling pin, paper towels, cast iron pan, kitchen tongs, digital meat thermometer (recommended)
What’s Great About This Lemon Panko Chicken
Unforgettable Flavor
One of the reasons I absolutely love Lemon Panko Chicken is the incredible flavor that comes from just a few simple ingredients. The zest of fresh lemon adds a bright, refreshing note that perfectly complements the crispy panko coating. Each bite is a burst of flavor that makes you want to savor every moment.
Quick and Easy
This recipe is a lifesaver on busy nights. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delightful dinner ready in no time. It requires no complicated steps, which means you can spend less time fussing in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal with loved ones.
Perfectly Crispy Texture
The combination of panko bread crumbs and the right cooking technique gives this dish its signature crispy texture. You’ll love the satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the juicy chicken. It’s the ultimate comfort food, yet feels light thanks to the refreshing lemon flavor.
Versatile Dish
Lemon Panko Chicken is incredibly versatile! You can serve it with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or even some fluffy rice. It’s adaptable enough to fit any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or an elegant meal for guests.
Healthier Alternative
For those looking to make healthier choices, this recipe is a great alternative to fried chicken. The light olive oil and baked method ensure you get that crispy texture without the added calories from deep frying. It’s a guilt-free way to indulge in your favorite flavors.
Family-Friendly
Kids and adults alike will fall in love with the crispy, flavorful coating of this dish. It’s an excellent way to introduce the vibrant taste of lemon to younger palates without overwhelming them. My children ask for seconds every time I make it!
Ingredients You’ll Need for Lemon Panko Chicken
When it comes to making Lemon Panko Chicken, the ingredients are straightforward yet impactful. Each component plays a vital role in creating the perfect blend of flavors and textures. From the zest of fresh lemons to the crunch of panko breadcrumbs, these ingredients come together to elevate the dish.
- ⅛ teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors and balances the dish.
- ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder – Adds subtle depth and warmth to the seasoning mix.
- ⅛ teaspoon onion powder – Provides a hint of sweetness and earthiness.
- ⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes – Introduces a mild heat that elevates the dish without being overpowering.
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper – Adds a bit of spice to round out the flavor profile.
- ¾ teaspoon freshly grated lemon zest – The star ingredient, bringing a bright and zesty flavor to the dish.
- 2 tablespoons unseasoned panko bread crumbs – Creates the crunchy coating that we all love.
- 8 ounces boneless, skinless chicken breast – The main protein, juicy and tender once cooked.
- 1 teaspoon mild olive oil – Used to rub on the chicken for added moisture.
- 1 tablespoon mild olive oil – For frying the chicken, helping to achieve that perfect golden crust.
- Fresh lemon juice, to taste – A finishing touch that brightens the dish just before serving.
How to Assemble Lemon Panko Chicken
Making Lemon Panko Chicken is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Let’s get into the steps that will lead you to a deliciously crispy chicken dish. Follow these simple instructions, and you’ll have a meal that’s sure to impress!
Start by heating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Preheating the oven ensures that the chicken will cook evenly and develop a beautiful golden crust.
In a shallow bowl or pie plate, add the salt, garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, black pepper, and lemon zest. Mix these ingredients together with a fork until they are well combined. You want to ensure that the dry seasonings are evenly distributed and moistened by the lemon zest.
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Add the panko to the seasoning mixture in the bowl. Use your fork to mix it in well, ensuring that the breadcrumbs are fully coated with the flavorful seasonings. Set this mixture aside for later.
Now, take your chicken breast and place it on a cutting board. Cover it with plastic wrap and pound it to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This step is crucial as it helps the chicken cook evenly and stay tender.
Once the chicken is flattened, dry it using paper towels. This helps the oil and panko adhere better. Next, rub the chicken on both sides with the mild olive oil.
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Press both sides of the oiled chicken breast into the panko mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated. You want a generous layer of the crunchy mixture on your chicken for that satisfying crunch.
In a cast iron pan, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat until it shimmers. Carefully place the coated chicken into the pan. Fry each side for about 4 minutes until the crust is golden-brown and crispy.
Once both sides are beautifully browned, transfer the pan to the preheated oven. Bake the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit, which typically takes around 5 more minutes for a ¾-inch thick piece.
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After the chicken is fully cooked, transfer it to a plate and allow it to cool for about 3 minutes. This resting time helps the juices redistribute, keeping your chicken moist.
Finally, before serving, sprinkle a few drops of fresh lemon juice over the chicken for an extra burst of flavor that complements the panko crust.
Things Worth Knowing
- Moisture Matters: Always ensure your chicken is patted dry before adding oil and panko. This helps the coating stick better.
- Season Generously: Don’t shy away from seasoning the chicken and breadcrumbs. The flavor comes from the seasonings, so make sure to be generous.
- Cooking Temperature: If you have a meat thermometer, use it! It’s the best way to guarantee perfectly cooked chicken every time.
- Let it Rest: Allow the chicken to rest after cooking to keep it juicy and flavorful. Patience pays off!
Recipe Variations about Lemon Panko Chicken
If you’re anything like me, you love to experiment in the kitchen! Here are some variations and tips to customize your Lemon Panko Chicken to suit your taste:
- Herb Infusion: Add dried herbs like oregano or thyme to the panko mixture for a delightful twist.
- Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy heat, consider increasing the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or adding a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Alternative Proteins: This same technique works beautifully with fish or pork. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Citrus Variety: Experiment with different citrus fruits like lime or orange zest for a unique flavor profile.
- Swap the Breadcrumbs: If you want a gluten-free option, substitute traditional panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts.
- Serving Style: Serve with a creamy dipping sauce like ranch or a tangy yogurt sauce to complement the crispiness.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to regain that crispiness.
- Freezing: You can freeze cooked chicken to enjoy later. Just ensure it’s sealed properly to prevent freezer burn.
- Pairing: Serve this dish with a light arugula salad or some steamed broccoli for a complete meal.
Serving Ideas for Lemon Panko Chicken
Bringing the delicious Lemon Panko Chicken to the table is all about presentation and pairing it with the right sides. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving:
- Fresh Salads: A light and crisp salad, such as a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette, complements the lemony flavors of the chicken.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or asparagus for a healthy and colorful plate.
- Rice or Quinoa: Fluffy rice or quinoa can help soak up any juices from the chicken, adding heartiness to the meal.
- Pasta Dishes: Pair with a light pasta dish, perhaps tossed in olive oil and garlic, for a comforting yet elegant meal.
- Perfect for Lunch: Leftover Lemon Panko Chicken makes for a fantastic lunch option. Simply slice it over a bed of greens for a quick salad.
- Garnish Ideas: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil on top adds a pop of color and freshness.
- Special Occasions: This dish is impressive enough for special occasions but simple enough for a weeknight dinner, making it versatile for any gathering.
- Last Minute Guests: Quickly whip this up for unexpected guests, serving it with whatever sides you have on hand for a stress-free meal.
FAQ
Conclusion
Lemon Panko Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together the refreshing zing of lemon with a crispy, satisfying coating. It’s perfect for any night of the week, and the family will surely love it. I encourage you to try this recipe; it’s an easy way to impress during dinner while enjoying all the flavors you crave. Happy cooking!
Lemon Panko Chicken
Equipment
- shallow bowl or pie plate
- Measuring Spoons
- citrus zester
- Fork
- cutting board or cutting mat
- Plastic Wrap
- meat mallet or rolling pin
- Paper towels
- cast iron pan
- kitchen tongs
- Digital meat thermometer (recommended)
Ingredients
- ⅛ teaspoon Salt
- ⅛ teaspoon Garlic powder
- ⅛ teaspoon Onion powder
- ⅛ teaspoon Crushed red pepper flakes
- ¼ teaspoon Ground black pepper
- ¾ teaspoon Freshly grated lemon zest (you need about ¼ of a large lemon for that)
- 2 tablespoons Unseasoned panko bread crumbs
- 8 ounces Boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 teaspoon Mild olive oil (to rub on the chicken)
- 1 tablespoon Mild olive oil (for frying the chicken)
- to taste Fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Heat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a shallow bowl or pie plate, add the salt, garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, black pepper, and lemon zest. Mix these ingredients together with a fork until they are well combined.
- Add the panko to the seasoning mixture in the bowl and mix until fully coated.
- Place the chicken breast on a cutting board and cover it with plastic wrap, pounding it to an even thickness.
- Dry the chicken using paper towels and rub with olive oil on both sides.
- Press both sides of the oiled chicken breast into the panko mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
- In a cast iron pan, heat the remaining olive oil and fry the chicken for about 4 minutes on each side.
- Transfer the pan to the oven and bake until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Transfer chicken to a plate and let it cool for 3 minutes before serving.
- Before serving, sprinkle with fresh lemon juice.
Notes
- Make sure: Get all ingredients well combined with the fresh lemon zest for better sticking to the panko.
