A citrus explosion awaits you with this delightful Lemon Pepper Chicken recipe. Imagine tender chicken seared to perfection, kissed by the zesty goodness of fresh lemons and aromatic pepper. You’ll find yourself dreaming of sun-soaked picnics and backyard barbecues with every bite.
This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience! Whether you’re serving it up at a casual weeknight dinner or showcasing it at a fancy gathering, this recipe promises to impress. Get ready for a flavor journey that’s both simple and unforgettable!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This zesty lemon pepper chicken offers incredible flavor while being super easy to prepare.
- It’s visually stunning with its vibrant colors, making it perfect for dinner parties.
- Use it in wraps or salads for versatile meal options.
- The bright aroma fills your kitchen and delights everyone around.
I remember the first time I served this dish; my friends’ eyes lit up as they took their first bites. It instantly became a favorite in our circle!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Choose about 3-4 breasts for even cooking and easy seasoning.
- Fresh Lemons: Look for firm lemons; their zest will elevate the flavor tremendously.
- Black Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper adds a brighter spice than pre-ground varieties.
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances the dish’s richness while keeping it healthy.
- Garlic Powder: This gives an extra layer of depth without overwhelming the lemon flavor.
- Salt: Just enough to enhance the overall taste without overpowering the zesty profile.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preparation Time: Start by prepping your ingredients. Gather your chicken breasts, lemons, and spices on your counter so you’re ready to go.
Marinate for Flavor: In a bowl, combine olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until fully blended – let that zesty aroma lift your spirits.
Add the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts into the marinade ensuring each piece gets a good coating. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes – great time to contemplate life choices!
Heat Things Up!: Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking. You want that sizzling sound when you place the marinated chicken on.
Sear to Perfection: Cook each side of the chicken for about 6-8 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F). Listen for that satisfying sizzle!
Rest Before Serving: Remove from heat and let rest for about 5 minutes before slicing – resting helps keep all those juicy flavors locked in.
Enjoy this Lemon Pepper Chicken on its own or paired with veggies or rice! Your taste buds will thank you later!
You Must Know
- This lemon pepper chicken recipe is not just about flavor; it’s an easy weeknight dinner.
- With zesty lemon and pepper, it brightens up any meal and makes your taste buds dance.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken in a mixture of lemon juice, pepper, and olive oil for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply for a deliciously juicy result.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out fresh herbs or add garlic for extra flavor. You can also experiment with different citrus juices like lime for a fun twist on this classic.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover lemon pepper chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through to keep it juicy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Marinate overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
- Ensure your pan is hot before searing for that golden crust.
- Don’t skip resting time; it keeps the chicken tender and moist.
Cooking this lemon pepper chicken always reminds me of that one family barbecue when I accidentally over-seasoned it with extra pepper. Everyone’s faces turned bright red, but they still loved it! We laughed so hard that I made it my signature dish ever since.
FAQ
What can I serve with lemon pepper chicken?
Lemon pepper chicken pairs wonderfully with rice, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just ensure it’s fully thawed before marinating and cooking to achieve even flavor distribution.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safe consumption and perfect juiciness.
Lemon Pepper Chicken
Lemon Pepper Chicken is a zesty delight that brings vibrant flavors to your table in just minutes. Perfect for any occasion, this dish will quickly become a family favorite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 minutes
- Total Time: 26 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling/Searing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 fresh lemons (juiced and zested)
- 2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions
- 1. Prep Ingredients: Gather chicken, lemons, and spices.
- 2. Marinate: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until blended. Add chicken and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- 3. Heat Skillet/Grill: Preheat over medium-high heat until hot.
- 4. Cook Chicken: Sear the marinated chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side or until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- 5. Rest & Serve: Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before slicing to retain juiciness.
Notes
- For added flavor, marinate overnight.
- Try adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra depth.
- Substitute lime juice for a unique twist.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approximately 6 oz)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 680 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 42 g
- Cholesterol: 150 mg
