This Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Asparagus is a bright and tasty dish that combines juicy chicken with fresh asparagus. The lemon adds a zesty kick, while the Parmesan cheese gives it a cheesy delight!
Trust me, this meal is so easy to whip up; it’s perfect for weeknight dinners. I love serving it with a side of rice to soak up all that yummy sauce. You won’t need fancy skills to impress!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are best for this recipe. If you prefer, you can use thighs for a juicier texture. Just adjust the cooking time as they may take a bit longer.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives a light and crunchy texture. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, but you might lose some of that delightful crunch.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is a key flavor here. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste or use a vegan Parmesan alternative.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus adds a nice crunch. If it’s not in season, green beans or broccoli can be a great substitute. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.
Heavy Cream: This is used for creaminess in the sauce. If you want to lighten it up, use half-and-half or coconut cream for a non-dairy option while keeping it rich.
How Can I Make Sure the Chicken is Cooked Evenly?
To get juicy and evenly cooked chicken, pounding it to an even thickness is essential. This helps it cook uniformly, preventing any parts from drying out. Here’s how to do it:
- Place chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper.
- Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the breasts to about ¾-inch thick.
- Season with salt and pepper before proceeding with the breading process.
This technique also makes it easier for the breadcrumbs to stick, giving you that delicious crispy coating!
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Asparagus?
Getting the asparagus just right can enhance the dish’s overall flavor. Here are some tips:
- Make sure to trim the ends to remove any tough, woody parts. Simply bend the stalk until it snaps to find the natural breaking point.
- Cook asparagus quickly to keep it bright green and crunchy. When you add it to the skillet before baking, make sure it’s not overcooked.
By following these steps, you’ll enjoy tender yet crisp asparagus that pairs perfectly with the chicken.
How to Make Lemon Parmesan Chicken With Asparagus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or oregano
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or butter, divided
For the Asparagus:
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced (plus juice of one lemon)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and breading the chicken, and then about 20 minutes cooking everything in one skillet and baking it in the oven. It’s a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s ready when you need it later.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and pound them to an even thickness for even cooking. Season both sides with salt and pepper. This helps keep the chicken juicy and flavorful.
3. Set Up Your Breading Station:
Grab three shallow dishes. In the first dish, add the flour. In the second, beat the eggs. In the third, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and dried herbs.
4. Coat the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and dredge it in the flour first—this helps the egg stick. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to make sure it sticks well.
5. Cook the Chicken:
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter in a large oven-proof skillet over medium heat. Add the breaded chicken to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
6. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
7. Add the Liquid Ingredients:
Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, lemon juice, and add the thinly sliced lemon. Stir everything together and bring the sauce to a simmer; it should start to bubble gently.
8. Prepare the Asparagus and Chicken:
Add the trimmed asparagus to the skillet, arranging it nicely. Next, place the browned chicken breasts on top of the asparagus.
9. Bake it All Together:
Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the asparagus is tender but still slightly crisp.
10. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, remove the skillet from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra lemon slices if desired. Serve warm, spooning the creamy lemon Parmesan sauce over the chicken and asparagus. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s crucial to thaw it completely first! The best way is to leave it in the fridge overnight or use a sealed bag submerged in cold water for quicker thawing. Make sure to pat it dry before proceeding with the recipe.
Can I Substitute Asparagus with Another Vegetable?
Absolutely! If asparagus isn’t available, consider using green beans or broccoli. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed—both should be added to the skillet at the same time as the asparagus for best results.
How Do I Store Leftover Lemon Parmesan Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken and asparagus in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can prep the chicken and even bread it a few hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. However, for best texture, it’s recommended to bake it fresh rather than reheat after baking.
