Lemon Pepper Chicken is a tasty dish that combines the bright flavor of lemon with the zingy taste of pepper. It’s juicy, simple, and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Cooking this dish fills my kitchen with a lovely aroma. I love serving it with rice or veggies—it’s always a hit! Plus, it takes hardly any time to make, which is a win in my book!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well here for a lean meal. If you’re looking for a different texture, try thighs instead; they tend to be juicier and more forgiving to cook.
Olive Oil: This adds great flavor and helps with cooking. If you’re out of olive oil, you can use vegetable oil or butter. Both will give a nice result, although butter adds a richer taste.
Lemon Juice & Zest: Fresh lemon juice enhances flavor, and zest adds a fragrant kick. If fresh lemons aren’t available, bottled lemon juice can work, but I recommend using about two-thirds of the amount suggested for a milder taste.
Lemon Pepper Seasoning: This gives the chicken its signature flavor. If you don’t have it, a mixture of dried black pepper and a bit of lemon zest or even garlic powder could work as a substitute.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but there are key steps to get it just right. First, let your chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes. This not only infuses flavor but also helps keep it juicy. When cooking, ensure your skillet is hot enough to sear the chicken.
- Once you add the chicken, don’t rush flipping it; cook for 5-7 minutes per side. Look for a nice golden-brown color.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should read 165°F (75°C). This guarantees it’s done without being dry.
- In the last minute, adding lemon slices lets them caramelize nicely, adding a lovely finish to your dish.
How to Make Lemon Pepper Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Lemon slices for garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes for preparation and at least 30 minutes for marinating. Total cooking time is about 15 minutes. So, you can expect to have this delicious lemon pepper chicken ready in about 55 minutes or so, plus any time you spend making sides. Perfect for a tasty dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
Start by mixing the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, lemon pepper seasoning, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Give it a good stir until everything is well combined. This will be the marinade that makes your chicken extra delicious!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken breasts to the bowl with the marinade. Make sure each piece is coated evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow all those yummy flavors to sink in, or up to 2 hours if you have the time.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Time to cook! Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. When it’s hot, carefully add the marinated chicken breasts to the skillet. Make sure to discard any leftover marinade. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, checking that they turn a nice golden brown and are fully cooked (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
4. Add Lemon Slices:
In the last minute of cooking, toss in some lemon slices to the skillet. Let them caramelize a bit with the chicken for added flavor. It will smell amazing!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and place it onto a serving platter. Don’t forget to pour any delicious juices from the skillet over the chicken. Garnish with extra lemon slices and chopped fresh parsley if you like. Serve hot, alongside your favorite sides like rice or steamed veggies for a complete meal!
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer bone-in chicken, adjust the cooking time to about 10-12 minutes per side, depending on the thickness. Make sure the internal temperature still reaches 165°F (75°C) and that it’s thoroughly cooked through.
What Can I Substitute for Lemon Pepper Seasoning?
If you don’t have lemon pepper seasoning on hand, you can create a substitute by combining equal parts of black pepper, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. For added flavor, you can also include garlic powder or onion powder to mimic the taste of the seasoning.
How Should I Store Leftover Lemon Pepper Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the chicken moist when reheating, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a bit of broth before warming it up on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken overnight for an even more intense flavor! Just make sure to cover the chicken well in the refrigerator. If it’s marinated for too long, the acid in the lemon juice can start to break down the chicken, potentially making it too soft.
