This Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Asparagus is a bright and tasty dish! It’s made with juicy chicken coated in zesty lemon and cheesy Parmesan, paired perfectly with fresh asparagus.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken is great for this recipe. If you’re short on time, consider using chicken thighs for added flavor and moisture. They’re also more forgiving if slightly overcooked.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a nice sharp flavor. If you don’t have it, Pecorino Romano works well, or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version that will still bring some cheesy flavor.
Flour: All-purpose flour is the go-to here, but you can use almond flour or gluten-free flour if you prefer a gluten-free option. Just note that the texture might vary a bit.
Olive Oil: While olive oil is great for flavor, you can use canola or vegetable oil if needed. Also, butter enhances richness, so don’t skip it if you can!
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is ideal, but if you can’t find it, green beans or zucchini can be a good substitute. They’ll add crunch and color.
What’s the Best Way to Prepare Chicken for Even Cooking?
Pounding the chicken to an even thickness is crucial for even cooking. You want both sides to cook at the same rate to avoid a dry outer layer and undercooked center.
- Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or wax paper.
- Using a meat mallet or heavy pan, gently pound them to about 1/2 inch thick.
- Be gentle and start from the middle to avoid tearing
This technique not only helps with cooking but also makes the chicken more tender and enjoyable to eat!
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Saute for Asparagus?
Getting that tender-crisp texture in asparagus is all about time and heat. You want to sauté them just until they turn bright green and are still slightly firm.
- Heat your skillet before adding the asparagus to get a good sizzle.
- Sauté for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The color change is your cue!
- Season them with salt and pepper at the end to enhance their natural flavor.
This way, they keep some bite and do not turn mushy, making your meal vibrant and enjoyable.
Enjoy preparing this delicious Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Asparagus! Each step helps elevate the flavors and ensure a delightful dining experience.
How to Make Lemon Parmesan Chicken With Asparagus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
For the Asparagus:
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For Garnish:
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced (plus extra for juice)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley, thinly sliced or chopped
For the Sauce (optional):
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or white wine
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll need around 10 minutes to prepare, followed by about 10 minutes of cooking on the stove and 10 minutes baking in the oven. A quick and delicious meal that you can whip up in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Make sure to prepare an oven-safe pan or skillet where your chicken will bake later.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This allows them to cook evenly, ensuring they stay juicy.
3. Season the Chicken:
Season the chicken on both sides with salt, pepper, and the dried Italian herbs, giving it a boost of flavor.
4. Set Up the Dredging Station:
Prepare three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with grated Parmesan cheese mixed with a little salt and pepper.
5. Coat the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and dredge it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the eggs, and finally, coat it thoroughly with the Parmesan cheese mixture.
6. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Once it’s hot, add the chicken breasts and cook until they’re golden brown on both sides, which should take about 3-4 minutes per side.
7. Cook the Garlic:
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and the minced garlic, sautéing it for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
8. Prepare the Asparagus:
Add the trimmed asparagus to the skillet and sauté until they are tender-crisp, around 4-5 minutes. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper!
9. Assemble the Dish:
Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the pan on top of the asparagus. Lay the lemon slices atop the chicken. If you’re using chicken broth or white wine, pour it around the chicken now to add moisture and flavor.
10. Bake:
Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the juices run clear.
11. Final Touches:
Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top and give it a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for an extra zing.
12. Serve:
Serve your zesty Lemon Parmesan Chicken layered on a bed of sautéed asparagus with the lemon slices on top for garnish. Enjoy this delicious meal!
Enjoy your flavorful, zesty Lemon Parmesan Chicken with tender asparagus!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight, or use the cold water method by placing it in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water until thawed.
What Can I Substitute for Asparagus?
If you can’t find asparagus, green beans or zucchini are great alternatives. Both will add texture and flavor to the dish. Simply sauté them the same way as the asparagus until they are tender-crisp.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and asparagus ahead of time. Cook them up to the point of baking, then store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat in the oven until warmed through before serving.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep the chicken moist.
