Lemon Pepper Chicken

The moment I first tasted Lemon Pepper Chicken, it felt like a vibrant burst of sunshine on my plate. I remember standing in my kitchen, the aroma of freshly squeezed lemons mixing with the savory scent of chicken, making my mouth water in anticipation. This dish has a special place in my heart, not just because of its zesty flavor but also due to the memories it evokes of family dinners filled with laughter. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering, Lemon Pepper Chicken always manages to steal the spotlight. Its simplicity and vibrant taste make it a go-to recipe in our household, and I’m excited to share it with you!

Ingredients for Lemon Pepper Chicken

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the dish’s signature taste. The key players here are the chicken breasts, which provide the protein base, and the lemon pepper seasoning, which brings that zesty, peppery kick. Together, they create a delightful harmony that elevates the dish to new heights.

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The foundation of the dish, these juicy breasts soak up all the flavors, making each bite tender and delicious.
• 1½ teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning: This seasoning blends tangy lemon zest with the heat of black pepper, infusing the chicken with its distinctive flavor.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder: A dash of aromatic depth that enhances the overall taste.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for bringing out the flavors in the chicken.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing the chicken, adding a rich flavor.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: This adds richness to the sauce and helps create a luscious texture.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic gives an aromatic kick that elevates the dish.
• ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth: This will create a flavorful base for the sauce.
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (from 2 lemons): Fresh juice is key for that zesty flavor.
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest: A burst of citrus aroma and flavor.
• 1 tablespoon capers, drained: They add a delightful briny touch to the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon honey: A hint of sweetness that balances the acidity of the lemon.
• ½ tablespoon all-purpose flour: This helps thicken the sauce to a perfect consistency.
• Chopped fresh parsley, optional, for garnish: Adds a pop of color and freshness to the final dish.

The Method for Lemon Pepper Chicken

The method for preparing Lemon Pepper Chicken is straightforward, making it perfect for cooks of all skill levels. It begins with prepping the chicken, ensuring it’s seasoned beautifully before cooking. Let’s walk through the steps together!

1. Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it helps achieve a nice golden-brown crust during cooking. Then, pound the breasts to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly. Season both sides generously with lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, and a pinch of kosher salt.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the pan. Cook for about 5 to 6 minutes on one side until it develops a lovely golden color. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan to allow for even cooking.
3. Once the first side is beautifully browned, reduce the heat to medium, flip the chicken breasts, and continue to cook for another 5 to 6 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
4. In the same skillet, add butter and the minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute until the garlic is fragrant, taking care not to burn it. This step adds incredible flavor to the sauce.
5. Next, add the chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, capers, and honey to the skillet. Stir everything together until well combined, then bring it to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 3 to 5 minutes, or until the sauce reduces slightly.
6. While the sauce is simmering, combine the flour with a couple of tablespoons of the lemon sauce in a small cup. Mix until smooth, then pour this mixture back into the skillet. Stir until the sauce is thickened and creamy.
7. Return the cooked chicken breasts back to the skillet, coating them in the luscious sauce. Let it simmer for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
8. Finally, garnish your Lemon Pepper Chicken with chopped fresh parsley and lemon slices for a beautiful presentation. Serve warm, and enjoy the burst of flavors!

Recipe Variations about Lemon Pepper Chicken

While the classic Lemon Pepper Chicken is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to change it up! Here are some fun variations and tips to inspire you:

• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs! Fresh thyme or dill can add a unique twist to the flavor profile.
• Veggie Additions: Toss in some sliced bell peppers or asparagus to the skillet for added color and nutrition.
• Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick.
• Grilled Option: For a smoky flavor, try grilling the chicken instead of pan-searing it. Just marinate it in the lemon pepper seasoning beforehand.
• Make it Creamy: For a creamy sauce, add a splash of cream to the sauce just before serving.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with rice or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.

What Complements This Lemon Pepper Chicken

• Fresh Salads: A light garden salad or a caesar salad goes well, offering a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, carrots, or brussels sprouts make for a colorful and healthy side.
• Rice Dishes: Fluffy jasmine rice or a lemon rice pilaf creates a fantastic base to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Seasonal Dishes: This dish is perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to celebratory gatherings.
• Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave to maintain moisture.

FAQ

Conclusion

Lemon Pepper Chicken is truly a dish that brings joy to the table with its zesty flavor and simple preparation. The delightful combination of lemon and pepper elevates the chicken to a whole new level, making it a fantastic choice for any meal. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it may just become a new favorite in your household! Enjoy every bite of this vibrant and delicious dish!

Lemon Pepper Chicken

The ultimate comfort food that satisfies your cravings! Lemon Pepper Chicken is a zesty and savory dish that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner. With its juicy chicken and bright lemon flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Try it tonight!

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1.5 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning
• 0.5 teaspoons garlic powder
• 0.5 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic
• 0.5 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 0.25 cups fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon capers
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 0.5 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• to taste garnish Chopped fresh parsley optional

Equipment

• Saucepan
• Wooden Spoon
• Skillet
• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife

Method

 

1. Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it helps achieve a nice golden-brown crust during cooking.
2. Pound the breasts to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly. Season both sides generously with lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, and a pinch of kosher salt.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the pan. Cook for about 5 to 6 minutes on one side until it develops a lovely golden color.
4. Reduce the heat to medium, flip the chicken breasts, and continue to cook for another 5 to 6 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
6. In the same skillet, add butter and the minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute until the garlic is fragrant.
7. Next, add the chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, capers, and honey to the skillet. Stir everything together until well combined, then bring it to a gentle simmer.
8. Allow it to cook for about 3 to 5 minutes, or until the sauce reduces slightly.
9. While the sauce is simmering, combine the flour with a couple of tablespoons of the lemon sauce in a small cup. Mix until smooth, then pour this mixture back into the skillet.
10. Stir until the sauce is thickened and creamy. Return the cooked chicken breasts back to the skillet, coating them in the luscious sauce.
11. Let it simmer for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Garnish your Lemon Pepper Chicken with chopped fresh parsley and lemon slices for a beautiful presentation.
12. Serve warm, and enjoy the burst of flavors!

Notes

• Storage: Store lemon pepper chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

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Meet Chloe Bennett

I started this blog to document the rustic, comforting food I love to make. I’m the “Pine” of the group I’m all about hearty stews, wood-fired cooking, and cozy, one-pot meals. I brought my best friends on board to make this a shared journal of our adventures. I work closely with Maya to develop our main courses and do most of the writing for our posts.