If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bright flavors and simple elegance, this Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts perfectly seduced by zesty lemon juice, fragrant garlic, and a kick of bold lemon pepper seasoning. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just treating yourself to something special, this recipe shines with freshness and ease, making it a memorable meal any day of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is half the fun, and this Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe keeps it uncomplicated yet flavorful. Each ingredient plays its part, from the tangy lemons bringing a fresh brightness to the mix, to the olive oil ensuring every bite stays juicy and rich.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Choose fresh, evenly sized breasts for consistent cooking and tenderness.
- Juice from 2 large fresh lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds zesty brightness that store-bought just can’t match.
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: This helps marinate the chicken beautifully while giving a silky texture.
- 2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning: A perfect blend of pepper and citrus notes that brings punchy flavor to the chicken.
- 3 minced garlic cloves: Garlic introduces a warm, aromatic depth that balances the lemon’s acidity.
How to Make Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by combining the fresh lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, and lemon pepper seasoning in a bowl. Nestle the chicken breasts into this fragrant mixture and let them soak in the flavors for at least 30 minutes. This marinade is where the magic begins, tenderizing the chicken and loading it with zesty goodness.
Step 2: Preheat Your Grill or Skillet
While the chicken marinates, get your grill or skillet heating up over medium-high. A hot surface is key to achieving that perfect sear, locking in all the marinade’s delicious flavors and creating a golden crust that’s simply irresistible.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts on the grill or skillet and let them cook undisturbed for about 6 minutes on each side. The goal is a juicy interior and a charred, flavorful exterior. Use a meat thermometer to make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe, succulent chicken.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, resist the temptation to slice immediately. Letting the chicken rest for five minutes allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and tender. After resting, slice the chicken against the grain and prepare to enjoy!
How to Serve Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few lemon wedges instantly brighten the plate and add a pop of color. Plus, a drizzle of extra lemon juice right before serving keeps the dish fresh and lively.
Side Dishes
This Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe pairs beautifully with light, fresh sides. Think fluffy quinoa salad, roasted asparagus, or a crisp green salad with vinaigrette. These sides complement the citrusy flavors without overpowering the star of the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your lemon pepper chicken sliced atop a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or nestled alongside sautéed garlic spinach. Garnish with edible flowers or microgreens to impress guests at your next dinner party with style and flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover lemon pepper chicken can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It stays flavorful and makes for quick lunches or dinner the next day.
Freezing
If you want to keep the chicken longer, wrap it tightly in foil or freezer-safe bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, use a low setting in your oven or microwave to avoid drying out the chicken. Cover it with foil or a microwave-safe lid to maintain moisture. A quick pan-sear can also revive that beautiful crust perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken for this Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe?
Absolutely! Bone-in chicken will take a bit longer to cook but offers amazing flavor. Just adjust the cooking time and use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F internally.
Is lemon pepper seasoning easy to make at home?
Yes, you can make your own lemon pepper seasoning by combining coarse ground black pepper with finely grated lemon zest and a pinch of salt. It’s fresh and customizable to your taste!
Can I bake the lemon pepper chicken instead of grilling?
Definitely! Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Baking keeps things simple while still packing in the flavor.
What if I don’t have fresh lemons on hand?
Fresh lemon juice is ideal for vibrant flavor, but in a pinch, bottled lemon juice can work. Just use slightly less since it tends to be more concentrated and less bright.
Can I double the marinade to use as a sauce?
I wouldn’t recommend using the leftover marinade as a sauce unless you boil it first to kill any bacteria from the raw chicken. Alternatively, make a fresh batch of the marinade ingredients heated gently to serve as a sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients and straightforward techniques can create a dish that feels special every time. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or a cozy dinner for two, this recipe delights with juicy chicken full of citrus zest and peppery warmth. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your cooking repertoire.
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Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This delicious Lemon Pepper Chicken recipe offers a zesty and flavorful way to prepare juicy boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Marinated in fresh lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and lemon pepper seasoning, then grilled or pan-seared to perfection, this dish is perfect for a quick, healthy weeknight meal or a weekend dinner with family and friends.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
Marinade
- Juice from 2 large fresh lemons
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, combine the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, and lemon pepper seasoning. Place the chicken breasts in the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Preheat the cooking surface: Heat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat until hot. This ensures a nice sear on the chicken for optimal texture and flavor.
- Cook the chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill or skillet. Cook for about 6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and juicy.
- Rest the chicken: Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken tender and moist.
- Serve: Slice the chicken and serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- For even more flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours, but not longer to prevent the lemon juice from breaking down the meat too much.
- If you don’t have a grill, a heavy skillet or grill pan works perfectly on the stovetop.
- Check doneness using a meat thermometer to ensure food safety and avoid drying out the chicken.
- Optional garnish: fresh parsley or extra lemon slices for added brightness.
