why make this recipe
Crusted Chicken Romano is a delicious dish that brings the famous Cheesecake Factory flavors right to your kitchen. It’s crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also a great way to impress family or friends. Make it for a special dinner or just to enjoy a cozy night at home!
how to make Cheesecake Factory Crusted Chicken Romano
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds Chicken Breasts (Slice lengthwise for quicker cooking.)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.)
- 1 large Egg (Beat until smooth for even coverage.)
- 1 cup Panko Bread Crumbs (Regular breadcrumbs can be used if needed.)
- 1/2 cup Grated Romano Cheese (Feel free to swap with Parmesan.)
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (Optional, but highly recommended.)
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest (Fresh lemon juice is a nice alternative.)
- 1/4 cup Avocado Oil or Olive Oil (Remember, olive oil has a lower smoke point.)
- 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (Provolone is another tasty option.)
Directions:
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Preparation: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the chicken breasts lengthwise to make thinner pieces for quicker cooking. Season the chicken with salt and pepper to your taste.
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Set up a breading station: In one bowl, add the flour. In another bowl, beat the egg until smooth. In a third bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, Romano cheese, parsley, and lemon zest.
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Dip each chicken piece first in the flour, then in the egg, and finally coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure each piece is well-covered.
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Heat the avocado oil (or olive oil) in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces in batches and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
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After browning the chicken, place it in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
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In the last few minutes of baking, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of each chicken piece. Return to the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
how to serve Cheesecake Factory Crusted Chicken Romano
Serve your Crusted Chicken Romano hot out of the oven. It pairs nicely with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or pasta. A slice of lemon on the side can enhance the flavor even more!
how to store Cheesecake Factory Crusted Chicken Romano
If you have leftovers, let the chicken cool to room temperature, then put it in an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
tips to make Cheesecake Factory Crusted Chicken Romano
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken to get a crispy texture.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon juice or your favorite seasoning before breading.
- Adjust the seasoning in the breadcrumb mixture to match your taste preferences.
variation
You can add different herbs to the breadcrumb mixture or try using different cheeses like Parmesan or Cheddar for a twist. Adding some spices like paprika or garlic powder can also enhance the flavor.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well and can be juicier than breasts.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just substitute the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
What sides go well with Crusted Chicken Romano?
This dish goes well with salads, pasta, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Crusted Chicken Romano
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds Chicken Breasts Slice lengthwise for quicker cooking.
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
Breading Mixture
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour Substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
- 1 large Egg Beat until smooth for even coverage.
- 1 cup Panko Bread Crumbs Regular breadcrumbs can be used if needed.
- 1/2 cup Grated Romano Cheese Feel free to swap with Parmesan.
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley Optional, but highly recommended.
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest Fresh lemon juice is a nice alternative.
Cooking Ingredients
- 1/4 cup Avocado Oil or Olive Oil Remember, olive oil has a lower smoke point.
- 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Provolone is another tasty option.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the chicken breasts lengthwise for quicker cooking. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Breading
- Set up a breading station: In one bowl, add the flour. In another, beat the egg until smooth. In a third, mix the panko breadcrumbs, Romano cheese, parsley, and lemon zest.
- Dip each chicken piece first in the flour, then in the egg, and finally coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring each piece is well-covered.
Cooking
- Heat the avocado oil (or olive oil) in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces in batches and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
- Place the browned chicken in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- In the last few minutes of baking, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of each chicken piece. Return to the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
