There’s something magical about the combination of zesty lemon and bold black pepper, and this Lemon Pepper Chicken recipe brings it all together in the most flavorful way. With its juicy, tender texture and vibrant seasoning, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering with loved ones.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy days.
- Bursting with Flavor: The zing of lemon and the warmth of black pepper make this dish irresistible.
- Versatile: Great for meal prep, pairing with sides, or even slicing for salads.
- Healthy and Light: Packed with protein and simple, wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe:
- Chicken breasts or thighs
- Lemon juice and zest
- Black pepper (freshly cracked)
- Garlic
- Olive oil or butter
Full details and measurements are waiting for you in the recipe card below!
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season generously with lemon zest, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper on both sides. Let it rest for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown. Avoid overcrowding the pan for the best sear.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Pepper Sauce
Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside. In the same pan, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. Deglaze the pan with freshly squeezed lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits for extra flavor.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Return the chicken to the pan, spooning the lemon sauce over the top. Cover and let it simmer for 5–7 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and juicy.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and a bit more black pepper before serving.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Pound the chicken to an even thickness for quicker, more even cooking.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor—bottled juice just won’t compare.
- Don’t skip the zest! It adds an extra layer of citrusy brightness.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- Swap chicken breasts for thighs if you prefer darker, juicier meat.
- Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for a more complex flavor.
- For a creamier version, stir in a dollop of heavy cream or Greek yogurt at the end.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
This Lemon Pepper Chicken pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or creamy mashed potatoes. It’s also delicious served over rice, quinoa, or pasta to soak up the tangy lemon sauce.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or chicken broth to maintain moisture.
FAQs
1. Can I bake the chicken instead of searing it?
Yes! Season the chicken, place it in a baking dish, and bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes. Spoon the lemon sauce over the chicken halfway through for extra flavor.
2. Can I use chicken with the skin on?
Absolutely! Skin-on chicken adds richness and crisps up beautifully when seared.
3. Is this recipe spicy?
Not at all, but you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a slight kick.
4. Can I use this recipe for meal prep?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep! Store portions in individual containers with your favorite sides for an easy grab-and-go lunch or dinner.
Conclusion
Juicy Lemon Pepper Chicken is the ultimate quick and easy recipe that delivers big on flavor. With its zesty, savory sauce and perfectly cooked chicken, it’s a dish you’ll come back to again and again. Simple, satisfying, and downright delicious—this recipe is a must-try.
Print
Juicy Lemon Pepper Chicken – A Deliciously Simple Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Searing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Juicy Lemon Pepper Chicken is a delightful and simple dish that combines the tangy brightness of lemon with the subtle heat of black pepper. This recipe yields tender, flavorful chicken breasts that are perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. If they are particularly thick, consider pounding them to an even thickness for more uniform cooking.
- Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine the lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, and salt. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts, pressing gently to adhere.
- Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts. Sear for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden-brown crust.
- Add Lemon Juice: Reduce the heat to low. Pour the lemon juice over the chicken breasts, allowing it to sizzle and deglaze the pan. Let the chicken simmer in the lemon juice for an additional 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Check for Doneness: Ensure the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this dish with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the chicken.
- Customization: Adjust the amount of lemon pepper seasoning to suit your taste preferences.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 280
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg