Crispy Crusted Chicken Romano Recipe – A Cheesecake Factory Copycat You’ll Beg for Seconds

Crusted Chicken Romano is a delightful dish that combines the savory richness of Romano cheese with the crispy crunch of panko bread crumbs. The first bite of this crispy, golden chicken is so satisfying, it will leave you wanting more—so much more that you'll be begging for seconds! This recipe is a perfect replica of the famous dish from Cheesecake Factory, but with a simple homemade twist that makes it even more satisfying.

Photo byInsanelyGoodRecipes

I stumbled upon this recipe here and couldn't resist sharing it. The combination of flavors and textures in this dish is simply divine. Not only is it easy to make, but it also captures the rich, cheesy crust that makes it a must-try for any chicken lover.

A Little Backstory

Chicken Romano has become one of my favorite go-to recipes when I want to impress family or friends with minimal effort. It’s the perfect dish for those nights when you crave something indulgent and crispy but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The Romano cheese in the crust adds a salty, slightly tangy flavor that elevates the chicken, while the panko creates a crispy, crunchy texture that you just can't resist.

Cheesecake Factory made this dish famous, but now you can recreate this amazing flavor in the comfort of your own home. Not only does this dish taste just like the restaurant version, but it's also surprisingly quick to prepare. Once you’ve tried it, you’ll see why this recipe is so popular!

Cultural Origins

Although Chicken Romano is famously served at Cheesecake Factory, the dish has its roots in Italian-American cuisine, where breaded and fried chicken cutlets are often paired with rich sauces and cheeses. Romano cheese, one of Italy’s finest, adds a unique flavor to this recipe, setting it apart from the usual Parmesan-coated dishes. The tangy, bold taste of Romano cheese gives the dish its signature punch, while the crispy texture makes it irresistible.

Recipe Ingredients

• 3 chicken breasts, halved lengthwise
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 ½ cups panko bread crumbs
• 1 ½ cups grated Romano cheese, plus ½ cup extra for serving
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Begin by slicing each chicken breast in half lengthwise, creating six thin cutlets. Place them between plastic wrap or in a zip-top bag, then gently pound them with a meat mallet until they are about ¼” thick. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
2. Set Up Dipping Stations: Arrange three shallow dishes for the coating process. In the first dish, mix together the flour and Italian seasoning. In the second, whisk the eggs and water until frothy. The third dish should contain the panko bread crumbs mixed with the grated Romano cheese.
3. Coat the Chicken: Dredge each chicken cutlet in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip the floured cutlets into the egg mixture, letting the excess drip off. Finally, coat each cutlet thoroughly in the panko and Romano cheese mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the crumbs adhere. Let the coated cutlets rest for 5 minutes.
4. Fry to Perfection: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully add the cutlets to the skillet, frying each for 4-5 minutes per side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding by cooking in batches if needed.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Once the chicken is fried to perfection, transfer the cutlets to a serving plate and cover lightly with foil to keep warm. Serve with pasta and sauce of your choice—marinara, pesto, or Alfredo all work beautifully. For an extra touch of flavor, garnish with extra Romano cheese and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Cooking Tips and Variations

• Serving Suggestions: This crispy Crusted Chicken Romano pairs wonderfully with a side of pasta. Opt for a classic marinara for a tangy contrast, or go rich with a creamy Alfredo sauce. A fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables on the side will balance out the richness of the dish.
• Dietary Alternatives: For a gluten-free version, simply substitute the all-purpose flour and panko bread crumbs with gluten-free alternatives. You can also bake the chicken in the oven at 400°F for about 20 minutes if you prefer a lighter, oil-free option.
• Cheese Swaps: While Romano cheese is the star of this dish, feel free to experiment with Parmesan or Pecorino for a slightly different flavor profile.

This Crusted Chicken Romano recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household, just like it has in mine. The combination of flavors, textures, and the ease of preparation makes it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners or even special occasions.

Did You Love This Recipe?
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