Lemon Chicken Romano

Lemon Chicken Romano is a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table. This recipe features tender chicken breasts enveloped in a tangy lemon sauce, topped with savory Parmesan cheese. It’s an ideal choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, ensuring that your meals are memorable and vibrant.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Combination: The zesty lemon sauce combined with nutty Parmesan creates an irresistible flavor profile.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad to suit your family’s preferences.
• Impressive Presentation: Garnished with fresh parsley, this dish looks as good as it tastes, making it great for entertaining.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and low in carbs, it’s a nutritious option that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into cooking Lemon Chicken Romano, gather your kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will streamline the process and help you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Serving platter

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ensures even cooking of the chicken while allowing enough space for simmering the sauce.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes prep work quick and safe when chopping garlic and parsley.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced

For the Sauce

• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

For Thickening

• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water

Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Lemon Chicken Romano

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by chopping the parsley and mincing the garlic to have everything ready for cooking.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to enhance their flavor.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Broth

Once the chicken is browned, add minced garlic to the skillet. Pour in low-sodium chicken broth and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

Mix cornstarch with cold water in a small bowl. Add this mixture to the skillet and stir until the sauce thickens.

Step 6: Finish with Lemon Juice and Cheese

Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top, allowing it to melt slightly before serving.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Garnish your Lemon Chicken Romano with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy this delicious meal!

This recipe serves four people and is perfect for any occasion where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to Serve Lemon Chicken Romano

Serving Lemon Chicken Romano can elevate your dining experience, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to complement this vibrant dish.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A mix of leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers drizzled with a light vinaigrette.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with a creamy dressing and crunchy croutons for added texture.

Accompany with Pasta

• Garlic Butter Pasta: Simple spaghetti tossed in garlic butter enhances the lemony flavors of the chicken.
• Lemon Herb Orzo: Light and fluffy orzo pasta cooked with fresh herbs provides a refreshing contrast.

Offer Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Toasted bread brushed with garlic butter, perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Focaccia: Soft, herb-infused focaccia adds an Italian touch and is great for sharing.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle additional parsley on top for extra color and freshness.
• Basil Leaves: Fresh basil can add aromatic notes that complement the lemon sauce beautifully.

How to Perfect Lemon Chicken Romano

Perfecting Lemon Chicken Romano is all about balancing flavors and ensuring moist chicken. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your dish is a hit.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and lemons enhance the flavor profile significantly compared to dried or bottled options.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cook until just done; this keeps the chicken juicy and tender.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! You may want more lemon juice or seasoning based on your preference.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest before slicing helps retain juices and enhances flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Chicken Romano

Choosing the right side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some top picks that pair wonderfully with Lemon Chicken Romano.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly seasoned steamed broccoli adds crunch and color to your plate.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus in olive oil and roast until tender for a flavorful side.
3. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing salad made with quinoa, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber dressed in lemon vinaigrette complements the dish beautifully.
4. Risotto: Creamy risotto infused with lemon zest creates a rich pairing that balances the zesty chicken.
5. Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini lightly sautéed provides a low-carb option that’s both healthy and tasty.
6. Mixed Vegetables Stir-Fry: A colorful medley of bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas stir-fried in olive oil brings vibrancy to your meal.
7. Couscous Pilaf: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs and spices makes an excellent base for enjoying saucy chicken dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Lemon Chicken Romano, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish to perfection. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Not seasoning the chicken properly: Failing to season the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning before cooking.

• Using too high heat: Cooking on high heat can cause the chicken to burn on the outside while remaining raw inside. Stick to medium heat for even cooking and a golden crust.

• Skipping the simmering step: Neglecting to let the chicken simmer in broth after searing can result in a lack of flavor depth. Allow it to simmer for at least 5 minutes to enhance taste.

• Ignoring fresh ingredients: Using stale garlic or bottled lemon juice can diminish the dish’s brightness. Fresh garlic and freshly squeezed lemon juice make all the difference in flavor.

• Overcooking the chicken: Overcooked chicken becomes dry and tough. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for juicy, tender results.

• Forgetting the garnish: Skipping fresh parsley as a garnish can make your dish look less appealing. A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds color and freshness right before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to three days.

Freezing Lemon Chicken Romano

• Freeze in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Can be stored for up to three months.

Reheating Lemon Chicken Romano

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes.

• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if necessary to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Lemon Chicken Romano that may help you:

Can I use other types of cheese instead of Parmesan?

Yes! You can substitute Romano cheese with feta or add capers for a Mediterranean twist.

How do I know when my chicken is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (75°C) at the thickest part of the breast.

What sides pair well with Lemon Chicken Romano?

Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, pasta, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Can I meal prep this Lemon Chicken Romano recipe?

Absolutely! This dish stores well in both the refrigerator and freezer, making it perfect for meal prep.

Final Thoughts

Lemon Chicken Romano is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with vibrant flavors that will impress any guest. Its versatility allows for various customizations, whether you want to swap cheeses or add extra herbs. Give this delightful dish a try – it’s sure to become a favorite!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Lemon Chicken Romano

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves four

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Description

Lemon Chicken Romano is a vibrant and flavorful dish that elevates any dinner table. Featuring tender chicken breasts enveloped in a zesty lemon sauce and topped with savory Parmesan cheese, this recipe is perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s quick to prepare yet impressive enough to wow guests. The combination of fresh garlic, tangy lemon juice, and rich Parmesan creates an irresistible flavor profile. Serve it alongside your favorite pasta, rice, or salad for a delightful dining experience that’s both nutritious and satisfying.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Prepare your ingredients: Chop parsley and mince garlic.
2. Season chicken: Sprinkle salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides of the chicken breasts.
3. Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown.
4. Add garlic and broth: Stir in minced garlic followed by chicken broth. Simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Thicken the sauce: Combine cornstarch with cold water and stir into the skillet until the sauce thickens.
6. Finish with lemon juice and cheese: Pour in fresh lemon juice and sprinkle grated Parmesan on top before serving.
7. Garnish: Top with chopped parsley just before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Searing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approximately 170g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 540mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 54g
• Cholesterol: 130mg