Crispy Lemon Herb Chicken

Here’s a recipe for Crispy Lemon Herb Chicken that’s full of flavor with a perfectly crispy exterior!

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken breasts (or thighs, if you prefer dark meat)
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tbsp dried thyme)
• 2 tbsp fresh rosemary (chopped, or 1 tbsp dried)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for added flavor)
• 1 egg (beaten)
• 1 tbsp flour (for dredging)

Instructions:

1. Prep the Chicken:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
   • If your chicken breasts are thick, you can slice them in half horizontally to make them thinner for quicker cooking.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
   • In a small bowl, combine the lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, thyme, rosemary, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
   • Coat the chicken in the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to an hour (the longer, the better).
3. Prepare the Coating:
   • In one shallow bowl, add the flour.
   • In another shallow bowl, beat the egg.
   • In a third shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
4. Coat the Chicken:
   • Dredge each marinated chicken breast in flour, then dip it in the beaten egg, and finally coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick well.
5. Cook the Chicken:
   • Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add a little olive oil (about 1-2 tbsp).
   • Once the skillet is hot, add the coated chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
6. Finish in the Oven:
   • Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 12-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
7. Serve:
   • Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
   • Garnish with additional fresh herbs or a sprinkle of lemon zest for a pop of freshness.

Optional Side Suggestions:

• Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad to complement the crispy chicken.

Enjoy this crispy, flavorful chicken that balances the freshness of lemon with the aromatic herbs!