Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe – Easy & Delicious

Lemon Pepper Chicken is a flavorful and simple dish that can be made in just a few steps. With the zesty punch of lemon and the bold kick of freshly ground pepper, this recipe is a favorite among those who enjoy bright, citrusy flavors. Whether you’re preparing it for a busy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. The best part? It’s versatile enough to pair with a wide range of sides, and it’s quick enough to be a regular in your meal rotation.

In this recipe, we’ll guide you step-by-step to make the most tender, juicy, and flavorful lemon pepper chicken. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients:

To make this Lemon Pepper Chicken, you’ll need:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon zest (freshly grated)
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt to taste
1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Optional: 1 tablespoon butter for a richer flavor

How to Make Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe ?

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by rinsing the chicken breasts under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This ensures the seasoning sticks well. If the breasts are particularly thick, consider butterflying them to ensure they cook evenly and quickly.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a small bowl, mix together the lemon zest, lemon juice, lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt. Coat the chicken breasts with this seasoning mixture on both sides. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld into the chicken.

Step 3: Heat the Pan

Place a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Allow the oil to heat until it shimmers, but don’t let it smoke.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Once the pan is hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook for 4-6 minutes on the first side without moving them, until a golden-brown crust forms. Flip the chicken and reduce the heat to medium. Continue cooking for another 4-6 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 5: Add the Butter and Finish

If you want an extra layer of richness, add a tablespoon of butter to the pan in the final 2 minutes of cooking. Let it melt and spoon the melted butter over the chicken to enhance its flavor and keep it moist. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.

Variations:

Lemon Pepper Chicken is highly versatile, and you can make some adjustments to suit your taste:

Spicy Lemon Pepper Chicken: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick.
Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs: Substitute chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier alternative.
Oven-Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken: For a hands-off approach, bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes until fully cooked, adding the butter and parsley at the end.
Grilled Lemon Pepper Chicken: Marinate the chicken in the lemon pepper seasoning mix for an hour, then grill it for smoky, charred flavor.

Cooking Notes:

Chicken Thickness: Ensure your chicken breasts are even in thickness for uniform cooking. If needed, pound them to a consistent thickness using a meat mallet.
Pan Choice: A heavy-duty skillet or cast-iron pan works best to create a nice sear on the chicken.
Resting Time: After cooking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before cutting into it. This helps to retain the juices and keeps the meat tender.

Serving Suggestions:

Lemon Pepper Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides:

Rice: Serve over a bed of fluffy white rice or flavorful pilaf for a satisfying meal.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, carrots, or asparagus complement the citrusy chicken perfectly.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes work beautifully with the zesty, savory chicken.
Salads: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette or a Mediterranean-style salad can add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.

Helpful Tips:

Marinate for Extra Flavor: If you have extra time, marinate the chicken in the lemon pepper mixture for 30 minutes to an hour before cooking. This will deepen the flavor.
Internal Temperature: Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked. It should reach 165°F (75°C).
Lemon Pepper Seasoning: If you don’t have pre-made lemon pepper seasoning, you can create your own by mixing black pepper, lemon zest, garlic powder, and salt.

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FAQs About Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, you can! Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, so they are a great alternative. Just adjust the cooking time based on their size.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as long as you’re using gluten-free lemon pepper seasoning. Always double-check the ingredients on the seasoning packet.

Can I make Lemon Pepper Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a skillet for best results.

Conclusion

Lemon Pepper Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s sure to become a go-to in your recipe collection. With its bright citrus flavor and perfect balance of spices, it’s both refreshing and satisfying. The recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to adjust the seasonings or switch up the sides to make it your own. Whether you serve it for dinner or meal prep for the week, this dish will never disappoint. Enjoy the bright, zesty flavors of lemon pepper chicken at your next meal!