Prepare to transform your ordinary chicken dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience that will make your taste buds dance with joy! This Matzo Breaded Crispy Chicken Breast with Lemon is not just a recipe—it's a flavor explosion that combines the traditional Jewish cooking technique with a modern, irresistible twist. Imagine biting into a perfectly golden, crunchy exterior that gives way to tender, juicy chicken, all enhanced by a bright, zesty lemon essence. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat your family to a restaurant-quality meal at home, this recipe is your secret weapon to culinary greatness.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Jewish
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup matzo meal
- 2 eggs
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring a crisp coating.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper, creating a flavor base for the breading.
- Prepare three shallow dishes: one with matzo meal, one with beaten eggs, and a clean plate for the finished breaded chicken.
- Add the lemon zest to the matzo meal and mix thoroughly to distribute the citrus flavor evenly.
- Dip each chicken breast first into the beaten eggs, ensuring complete coverage and allowing excess to drip off.
- Immediately coat the egg-covered chicken in the lemon-infused matzo meal, pressing gently to help the breading adhere completely.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, ensuring enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan.
- Carefully place the breaded chicken breasts into the hot oil, cooking for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Check the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer for food safety.
- Remove chicken from the pan and let rest on a wire rack for 2-3 minutes to maintain crispiness and allow juices to redistribute.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh lemon wedges and chopped parsley before serving for additional brightness and presentation.
Tips
- Pat the chicken breasts completely dry before breading to ensure maximum crispiness.
- Use fresh, high-quality matzo meal for the best texture and flavor.
- Let the breaded chicken rest for a few minutes before frying to help the coating adhere better.
- Maintain consistent oil temperature (around 350°F) for even, crispy browning.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is perfectly cooked without overdrying.
- For extra flavor, add herbs like dried thyme or paprika to your matzo meal mixture.
- Let the chicken rest on a wire rack after cooking to prevent the bottom from getting soggy.
- Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point like vegetable or canola oil for frying.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 651kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 56g
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 237mg
