Ingredients:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (about 6 oz each)
- /2 cup All-Purpose Flour
- teaspoon Kosher Salt (for dredge)
- /2 teaspoon Black Pepper, freshly ground (for dredge)
- cup Panko Breadcrumbs
- cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated)
- tablespoon Dried Parsley (for crust)
- teaspoon Garlic Powder
- Large Eggs, lightly beaten
- tablespoons Olive Oil or Vegetable Oil
- tablespoons Unsalted Butter, softened
- tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice
- tablespoon Fresh Parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the chicken: Slice the chicken breasts horizontally to create 8 thinner cutlets, or butterfly and pound all 4 breasts to an even 1/2-inch thickness. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Set up the dredging station in three shallow dishes: Dish 1: Flour seasoned with salt and pepper. Dish 2: Lightly whisked eggs. Dish 3: Combine Panko, grated Parmesan, dried parsley, and garlic powder. Mix thoroughly.
- Coat the chicken: Dredge each chicken piece sequentially: 1) Flour (shake off excess), 2) Egg (let excess drip off), 3) Parmesan Mixture (press firmly so the crust adheres well). Place coated pieces on a clean plate.
- Preheat & Sear: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Heat oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the crusted chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until the crust is golden brown. Do not cook through entirely.
- Finish in Oven: Transfer the seared chicken pieces to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10–14 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Make the Lemon Butter: While the chicken bakes, melt the butter in a small saucepan or microwave. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and fresh parsley. Keep warm.
- Serve: Remove the Parmesan Crusted Chicken from the oven. Let it rest for 2 minutes, then plate immediately. Drizzle generously with the warm Lemon Herb Butter.