Crispy Mozzarella Panko Chicken with Roasted Asparagus and Buttery Couscous

This crispy mozzarella panko chicken is a game-changer for busy weeknights. The chicken cutlets are coated in a crunchy panko and mozzarella mixture, then baked until golden and juicy. Served alongside roasted asparagus and buttery lemon couscous, this meal comes together in just 30 minutes.

The combination of melted mozzarella and Italian seasoning creates a flavorful crust that’s both crispy and cheesy. The roasted asparagus adds a fresh, slightly charred contrast, while the couscous is light and buttery with a hint of lemon. It’s a complete dinner that feels special but is simple enough for any night of the week.

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Ingredients

1.5 tablespoon Sour CreamView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

0.75 cup Israeli CouscousView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

ounce BroccoliView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

6 ounce AsparagusView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

1 unit Chicken Stock ConcentrateView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

0.5 unit LemonView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

0.5 cup Mozzarella CheeseView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

0.33 tablespoon Italian SeasoningView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

12 ounce Chicken CutletsView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

0.25 cup Panko BreadcrumbsView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

2 tablespoon (tbsp) Olive OilView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

2 tablespoon (tbsp) ButterView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

teaspoon (tsp) SaltView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

teaspoon (tsp) Black PepperView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

Instructions

1. Adjust rack to top position (top and middle for 4 servings) and preheat oven to 425°F. Wash and dry produce. Zest and quarter lemon. Cut broccoli into bite-size pieces if necessary.
2. In a medium bowl, combine panko, mozzarella, 1 tsp Italian seasoning (2 tsp for 4 servings), 1 tbsp olive oil (2 tbsp for 4), salt and pepper. (Measure the Italian seasoning-we sent more.)
3. Pat chicken dry with paper towels; season all over with salt and pepper. Lightly coat a baking sheet with a drizzle of olive oil. Place chicken on one side of sheet (for 4 servings, place across entire sheet). Evenly spread sour cream onto tops of chicken, then mound with panko mixture, pressing firmly to adhere (no need to coat undersides).
4. Toss broccoli on opposite side of sheet from chicken with a large drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper. (For 4 servings, add broccoli to a second baking sheet; roast on middle rack.) Roast on top rack until chicken is golden brown and cooked through and broccoli is slightly crispy, 18-22 minutes. TIP: If broccoli finishes before chicken, remove from oven and continue roasting chicken.
5. While chicken and broccoli roast, melt 1 tbsp butter (2 tbsp for 4 servings) in a small pot over medium-high heat. Add couscous and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring, until toasted, 2-3 minutes. Add 1 cup water (2 cups for 4) and stock concentrate. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce to a low simmer. Cook until couscous is tender, 6-8 minutes. Turn off heat. Drain any excess liquid if necessary.
6. Once chicken is done, stir 1 tbsp butter (2 tbsp for 4 servings) into couscous until melted. Stir in lemon zest and lemon juice to taste; season with salt and pepper. Divide couscous, chicken and broccoli between plates. Serve with any remaining lemon wedges on the side.

Recipe Tips

FAQ

Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?

Yes, but panko gives a crunchier texture. If using regular breadcrumbs, you may need to adjust the amount slightly.

Can I substitute the asparagus with another vegetable?

Absolutely! Green beans, zucchini or bell peppers would work well. Adjust roasting time as needed.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.