Enjoy a flavorful twist on a classic dish with this Lemon Pepper Chicken recipe! It’s light, zesty, and perfect for any occasion. The combination of tangy lemon, peppery spice, and rich garlic butter sauce makes it an irresistible choice for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Introduction
Lemon Pepper Chicken is a fresh and vibrant dish that pairs the citrusy punch of lemon with the savory richness of garlic and butter. This dish has roots in Mediterranean cuisine, where lemon and herbs are often used to bring out the natural flavors of meats. This recipe offers a crisp, golden exterior and a tender, juicy interior that’s simply irresistible. It’s quick, easy, and delicious!
Ingredients
To make this delightful Lemon Pepper Chicken recipe, you’ll need:
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut in half lengthwise
- ¼ cup flour
- 1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Lemon slices, for garnish
- Chopped parsley or dill, for garnish
Feel free to adjust the lemon pepper seasoning for a more intense citrusy flavor or add a pinch of chili flakes for a hint of heat.
How to Make Lemon Pepper Chicken
Follow these steps to make Lemon Pepper Chicken:
- Prepare the Chicken: In a shallow, wide bowl, combine the flour, lemon pepper seasoning, and salt. Dredge each chicken breast into the flour mixture, coating evenly.
- Cook the Chicken: Melt the butter and heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the breaded chicken breasts and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken and place it on an ovenproof plate, keeping it warm in the oven while you prepare the sauce.
- Prepare the Sauce: If there’s less than 2 tablespoons of fat left in the skillet, add equal amounts of butter and olive oil until you reach 2 tablespoons, and heat over medium-low. Add the minced garlic, stirring frequently, and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Allow the sauce to simmer and reduce for a few minutes, letting it thicken slightly. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Combine and Serve: Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, spooning the sauce over each piece to warm and coat them with flavor. Garnish with fresh lemon slices and a sprinkle of chopped parsley or dill for a beautiful presentation.
Helpful Tips
- Choosing the Right Pan: A heavy-bottomed skillet works best for even browning and heat distribution.
- Adjusting the Tang: Add extra lemon juice if you prefer a more tangy, zesty flavor in the sauce.
- Herbs to Try: Fresh dill, parsley, or even basil can be used as a garnish for an added herbaceous note.
Cooking Tips
Here are a few extra tips to make your Lemon Pepper Chicken shine:
- Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: Sear the chicken in batches if needed to ensure even browning.
- Using Low-Sodium Broth: This allows you to control the saltiness of the dish without overwhelming the lemon flavor.
- Equipment Tip: A meat thermometer helps to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Lemon Pepper Chicken with a side of steamed vegetables, rice, or a light salad. It pairs well with mashed potatoes or a side of pasta for a complete, satisfying meal. For a refreshing finish, garnish with lemon slices and a sprinkle of parsley, creating a vibrant and visually appealing dish.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional highlights of Lemon Pepper Chicken:
- High in lean protein and rich in vitamin C from the lemon, making it a healthful choice.
- Provides essential nutrients from olive oil and fresh herbs.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 320
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Potassium: 400mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Vitamin A: 6%
- Vitamin C: 10%
- Calcium: 3%
- Iron: 8%
This dish is balanced in protein and healthy fats, with a light lemony flavor that’s both satisfying and refreshing.
Storage and Leftovers
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to keep the chicken moist. Avoid microwaving as it may dry out the chicken.
This Lemon Pepper Chicken also works wonderfully sliced over salads or as a sandwich filling for an easy leftover meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks, but note that they will require a longer cooking time to reach the correct internal temperature.
What if I don’t have lemon pepper seasoning?
You can make a simple substitute by combining black pepper, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Certainly. Substitute the butter with an extra tablespoon of olive oil for a dairy-free option.
Related Recipes
If you enjoyed this Lemon Pepper Chicken, here are some related recipes to try:
- Garlic Herb Chicken Breast
- Honey Lemon Glazed Salmon
- Pan-Seared Garlic Butter Shrimp
- Lemon Basil Pasta
Conclusion
This Lemon Pepper Chicken recipe brings a bright, refreshing flavor to the table, perfect for both family dinners and meal-prep lunches. It’s simple, delicious, and sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. We’d love to hear how yours turned out, so share your experience and enjoy every bite!