Lemon Pecorino Chicken Tenderloins

Zesty, cheesy, and full of flavor, these Lemon Pecorino Chicken Tenderloins are a perfect balance of tangy lemon and savory Pecorino, making them a delicious choice for dinner or a special treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe for its fresh, vibrant flavors and simple yet impressive execution. The tangy lemon and nutty Pecorino create a wonderful contrast that elevates the chicken tenderloins to something truly special. The crispy, cheesy coating adds a satisfying crunch, while the tender chicken remains juicy and perfectly cooked. It’s the kind of dish that’s easy enough for a quick weeknight meal but also feels fancy enough for a special occasion. Whether I’m preparing it for a family dinner or just a treat for myself, these chicken tenderloins never disappoint!

Ingredients

1 lb chicken tenderloins

1/2 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese

1/4 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)

1 tbsp lemon zest

1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

1 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

In a shallow bowl, mix the grated Pecorino, breadcrumbs, lemon zest, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Drizzle the chicken tenderloins with lemon juice, ensuring they’re well coated.

Dredge the lemon-coated chicken in the Pecorino breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Once the skillet is hot, sear the chicken tenderloins for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.

Transfer the chicken to a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and tender.

Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot with your favorite side.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Storage/Reheating

I find that these Lemon Pecorino Chicken Tenderloins store well in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just place them in an airtight container, and they’ll stay fresh. To reheat, I like to pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until they’re heated through. For the crispiest texture, you can briefly broil them for a minute or two at the end.

FAQs

Can I use a different cheese besides Pecorino Romano?

Yes, if Pecorino Romano isn’t available, you can substitute it with Parmesan cheese. It will still give a similar savory and nutty flavor to the dish.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular panko, and you’ll have a gluten-free version of this tasty dish.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) to be considered fully cooked. I recommend using a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

While the chicken tenderloins are best fresh, you can prepare the breadcrumb coating ahead of time and store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to cook, just coat the chicken and follow the recipe as usual.

What side dishes pair well with this chicken?

I love serving these tenderloins with roasted vegetables, a simple green salad, or mashed potatoes. The crispy, cheesy coating pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides.

Conclusion

These Lemon Pecorino Chicken Tenderloins are an easy, flavorful dish that’s bound to become a favorite in my kitchen. With their tangy lemon, savory cheese, and crispy coating, they’re a treat for the taste buds. Whether I’m making them for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal, they’re sure to impress. I hope you give them a try and enjoy the perfect balance of flavors just as much as I do.

Recipe:

Lemon Pecorino Chicken Tenderloins

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These Lemon Pecorino Chicken Tenderloins are a delightful, zesty dish featuring a perfect blend of tangy lemon and savory Pecorino Romano cheese. Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, this recipe is easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The combination of fresh lemon zest, garlic, and Pecorino delivers a burst of flavor, elevating simple chicken tenderloins into a delicious and impressive meal.

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

1 lb chicken tenderloins

1/2 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese

1/4 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)

1 tbsp lemon zest

1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

1 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. In a shallow bowl, mix together grated Pecorino, breadcrumbs, lemon zest, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

3. Drizzle the chicken tenderloins with fresh lemon juice to coat.

4. Dredge the lemon-coated chicken in the Pecorino breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure it sticks.

5. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the skillet is hot, sear the chicken tenderloins for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.

6. Transfer the chicken to a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is fully cooked.

7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with your favorite side.

Notes

You can substitute Pecorino Romano with Parmesan cheese for a slightly milder flavor.

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular panko.

For best results, use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) internally.

• Author: Anna
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking, Searing
• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4 servings
• Calories: 320 kcal