Discover a simple, flavorful Lemon Pepper Chicken recipe perfect for quick dinners. Juicy, tender, and packed with bright citrus-pepper notes. Try it today!
Lemon Pepper Chicken
If you’re looking for a quick, delicious dinner idea, this Lemon Pepper Chicken is a perfect choice. This recipe features tender chicken breasts cooked with a bright and zesty lemon pepper seasoning that will quickly become a household favorite. Lemon Pepper Chicken brings together simple ingredients you likely have on hand for a flavorful meal you can whip up in about 30 minutes.
This is a great recipe for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without a lot of fuss. It pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. For more quick and tasty options, be sure to check out our Easy Weeknight Dinners collection.
Why You’ll Love It
With just a few pantry staples, you’ll get a juicy chicken breast infused with a punch of tangy lemon and a peppery bite. The balance of bright citrus zest and warming black pepper makes this dish fresh yet comforting. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making it an adaptable choice for many diets.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – or thighs for juicier meat
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – substitute avocado oil for a milder flavor
- 1 teaspoon salt – kosher preferred
- 1 teaspoon black pepper – freshly cracked for best taste
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest – fresh lemon zest adds bright citrus notes
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice – for acidity and moisture
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – adds savory depth
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – optional but recommended
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes – optional for a touch of heat
- Fresh parsley for garnish – chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure even browning.
- Mix salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and lemon zest in a small bowl.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts evenly with the spice mixture.
- Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet or cast iron pan.
- Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes without moving until the bottom is golden brown.
- Flip the chicken and continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- During the last 2 minutes, drizzle lemon juice over the chicken and sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes if using.
- Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes before serving.
For more inspiration with chicken dishes, visit our Chicken Recipes page, or discover new flavor profiles with our Citrus Marinades guide.
Expert Tips
To avoid dry chicken, ensure you do not overcook. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temp of 165°F. If you don’t have lemon zest, finely grate some lemon peel but avoid the white pith. For an extra crispy edge, sear chicken on higher heat for the first 2 minutes, then reduce heat.
Storage
Store leftover Lemon Pepper Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To freeze, wrap properly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Variations
- Vegan: Use firm tofu or seitan seasoned with lemon pepper spices and pan-fry.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, just double-check seasoning blends.
- Dairy-Free: The recipe contains no dairy, safe for dairy-free diets.
- Spicy: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
- Herb-Boosted: Add fresh thyme or rosemary along with lemon zest.
FAQ
- What is the best cut of chicken for Lemon Pepper Chicken?
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts are ideal for even cooking, but thighs can be used for juicier results.
- Can I make Lemon Pepper Chicken in the oven?
- Yes. Preheat oven to 400°F, sear chicken on stove top for 2 minutes per side, then transfer to oven for 15-18 minutes.
- How do I store leftover Lemon Pepper Chicken?
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Can I use fresh lemon juice instead of zest?
- Yes, but zest provides more intense citrus flavor. Use juice in combination with zest when possible.
- Is this recipe gluten-free?
- Yes, it uses naturally gluten-free ingredients.
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External resources for inspiration and cooking techniques: Food Network, Allrecipes.
