Lemon Pepper Panko Crusted Chicken: Crispy, Flavorful, and Easy!

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner that feels gourmet without the effort, this Lemon Pepper Panko Crusted Chicken is your new go-to recipe. With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you get a perfectly crispy, golden-brown crust with a bright, zesty lemon pepper flavor. Plus, it’s baked (or air-fried!) for a healthier twist on classic fried chicken.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Key Benefits

• Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes with minimal prep
• Healthy – Baked or air-fried, no deep frying needed
• Family-Friendly – A dish everyone will love, from kids to adults
• Meal Prep Friendly – Store leftovers and reheat for another easy meal

Taste & Texture

• Crispy & Crunchy – Thanks to the panko breadcrumbs, this chicken has an irresistible texture
• Bright & Zesty – The fresh lemon juice and lemon pepper seasoning add a vibrant, citrusy flavor
• Juicy & Tender – Baked to perfection, the chicken stays moist and flavorful

Dietary Attributes

• Naturally gluten-free option – Use gluten-free panko
• High-protein – Packed with 25g of protein per serving
• Low-calorie – Only 203 calories per serving

Ingredients & Substitutions

Ingredient List

• 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or cutlets)
• 2 tablespoons avocado oil, olive oil, or melted butter
• ¼ cup lemon juice (approx. 1 large or two small lemons)
• ½ cup Italian-seasoned panko or gluten-free panko
• 1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon fine ground sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

Optional Garnish:

• 1 lemon, cut into slices
• ¼ cup chopped flat-leaf parsley

Notes on Quality

• Fresh lemons make a difference—bottled lemon juice won’t have the same bright flavor
• Panko breadcrumbs create a crispier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs
• Use thin chicken breasts or cutlets for even cooking

Possible Substitutions

• Chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier option
• Gluten-free panko for a celiac-friendly version
• Lime juice instead of lemon for a slightly different citrus twist

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep Work

1. Preheat oven to 375ºF
2. Line a 9×13-inch baking dish or rimmed sheet pan with aluminum foil and lightly grease with nonstick spray or oil

Coating the Chicken

3. Place chicken breasts between sheets of wax paper or plastic wrap
4. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound to even thickness for uniform cooking
5. Mix oil and lemon juice, then brush onto both sides of the chicken

Breading the Chicken

6. In a gallon-size Ziploc bag, breading tray, or pie plate, mix panko, lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper
7. Coat each chicken breast in the panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere

Baking Instructions

8. Arrange chicken in a single layer in the prepared baking dish
9. Bake for 12 minutes, then flip the chicken and continue baking for another 12-15 minutes until golden brown
10. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 163°F
11. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving, allowing carryover cooking to bring it to 165°F

Air Fryer Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 350ºF
2. Add the panko-coated chicken to the air fryer basket in a single layer
3. Air fry for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp
4. Check for an internal temperature of 163°F, then let rest for 5 minutes before serving

Expert Tips & Tricks

Best Practices

• Pound chicken to even thickness – Ensures even cooking and prevents dryness
• Press panko onto the chicken firmly – Helps the crust stay crisp and intact
• Use a thermometer – The most reliable way to check for doneness

Common Mistakes

• Skipping the oil/lemon juice mix – This helps the breading stick and adds flavor
• Not flipping the chicken – Flipping ensures both sides crisp up evenly
• Overcooking – Pull the chicken out at 163°F since it will continue cooking as it rests

Time-Saving Tips

• Use pre-cut chicken cutlets instead of whole breasts
• Make the panko seasoning mix in advance and store for future use
• Use an air fryer for a faster cook time with extra crispiness

Serving Suggestions

Pairings

• Serve with Sheet Pan Gnocchi for a complete meal
• Pair with roasted veggies like asparagus, green beans, or Brussels sprouts
• Add a side of garlic mashed potatoes for a comforting, hearty dinner

Presentation Ideas

• Garnish with fresh lemon slices and parsley for a bright, elegant touch
• Serve on a white plate for a beautiful contrast with the golden crust

Beverage Pairings

• White wine – A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the lemony flavors
• Sparkling water with lemon – A refreshing, non-alcoholic option

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
• Freeze for up to 3 months in a sealed bag or container

Reheating Methods

• Oven: Reheat at 350°F for 5-10 minutes, broiling at the end for crispiness
• Air Fryer: Set to 350°F for 3-5 minutes for best results
• Microwave: Not recommended—it softens the crispy crust

Frequently Asked Questions

Substitutions & Adjustments

Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
Yes, but the texture will be less crispy.

What if I don’t have lemon pepper seasoning?
Mix black pepper, dried lemon zest, and a pinch of salt for a DIY version.

Troubleshooting

Why didn’t my chicken get crispy?
Make sure you press the panko firmly onto the chicken and bake at the right temperature.

What if my chicken is dry?
Check the internal temperature and avoid overcooking.

Variations & Customizations

Dietary Adaptations

• Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free panko
• Dairy-free? Skip the butter and use oil

Flavor Twists

• Add Parmesan cheese to the panko for a richer taste
• Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

Seasonal/Holiday Versions

• Serve with roasted butternut squash in the fall
• Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a winter variation

Conclusion

This Lemon Pepper Panko Crusted Chicken is crispy, zesty, and incredibly easy to make. Whether baked or air-fried, it’s a quick dinner that never fails to impress. Try it for your next meal, and let me know how it turns out in the comments. Don’t forget to pin this recipe on Pinterest for later.

For more delicious chicken recipes, check out Creamy Chicken Marsala, or explore another easy 30-minute meal like Sheet Pan Gnocchi. Happy cooking!

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