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zesty lemon pecorino crispy chicken - featured image

Zesty Lemon Pecorino Crispy Chicken

  • Author: Nora Winslow
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

A crispy, golden chicken with a zesty punch from lemon and a salty, savory Pecorino crust. Perfect for an easy, impressive dinner entree with a perfect balance of tang, saltiness, and crunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 pounds / 900g)
  • 1 cup finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese (100g)
  • Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (45ml)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin.
  2. In a bowl, combine finely grated Pecorino, lemon zest, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Rub the chicken all over with olive oil, then press the Pecorino mixture onto the skin side firmly.
  4. Heat an oven-safe skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
  5. Place chicken thighs skin-side down (crust side down) and sear without moving for 6-8 minutes until golden and crispy.
  6. Flip the chicken so the skin side is up and pour fresh lemon juice around the chicken in the skillet.
  7. Transfer the skillet to a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven and roast for 15-20 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  8. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to lock in juices and set the crust.
  9. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Pat chicken skin dry thoroughly for best crispiness. Do not overcrowd the pan to avoid steaming. Use freshly grated Pecorino and fresh lemon zest and juice for optimal flavor. Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet with olive oil to maintain crust crispness. Avoid microwaving leftovers.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh
  • Calories: 380
  • Sodium: 620
  • Fat: 25
  • Saturated Fat: 8
  • Carbohydrates: 2
  • Protein: 35

Keywords: lemon chicken, crispy chicken, Pecorino Romano, easy dinner, weeknight meal, chicken thighs, lemon zest, savory crust

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Find it online: https://gentlerecipes.com/zesty-lemon-pecorino-crispy-chicken-recipe-easy-perfect-dinner-entree/