Elevate your chicken dinners with this Panko-Crusted Chicken Breast recipe, which combines the delightful crunch of panko breadcrumbs with the fresh zest of lemon and thyme. This dish is not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight staple.
Ingredients:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: 4 (6 oz each)
- Panko breadcrumbs: 1 1/4 cups
- Fresh thyme leaves, minced: 1 tablespoon (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup
- Lemon zest: 1 teaspoon
- Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
- Milk or Dijon mustard for coating
- Olive oil for frying
Directions:
- Prep the Chicken: Flatten chicken breasts to even thickness. Season with salt and pepper.
- Prepare Breading: In a mixing bowl, combine panko, thyme, Parmesan, lemon zest, and seasonings.
- Coating: Dip chicken in milk or mustard, then dredge in breadcrumb mixture.
- Cook: Heat oil in a skillet. Fry chicken until golden and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Serve: Garnish with lemon slices and fresh thyme.
Conclusion and Tips: This recipe for Panko-Crusted Chicken Breast is wonderfully versatile. Serve it alongside a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or over pasta for a satisfying meal. The key to achieving the perfect crust is to ensure the oil is hot before adding the chicken, securing a crispy finish.