Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe
Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe
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Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe
This Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe is the ultimate choice for a quick, healthy, and flavorful dinner. With its zesty lemony punch and a bold, peppery kick, this chicken recipe is sure to be a family favorite. Perfectly seasoned, tender, and juicy, this Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe is an ideal weeknight meal or a standout option for dinner parties. Learn how to make this simple yet delicious lemon pepper chicken in just 30 minutes.
Description
Lemon pepper chicken is a flavorful, light, and satisfying dish that combines the bright citrus flavor of lemon with the sharp spice of black pepper. This combination creates a tantalizing seasoning that enhances the natural taste of chicken, making each bite bursting with zesty goodness. The recipe is easy to make and doesn’t require any complex ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, lemon pepper chicken never disappoints.
The beauty of this Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe lies in its simplicity. The seasoning is straightforward, and the chicken can be prepared using various cooking methods such as grilling, baking, or pan searing. Each method brings out the full potential of the seasoning. The chicken remains juicy and tender, while the lemon and pepper add complexity and depth to every bite.
You can pair this Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe with a wide range of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad. The dish is versatile enough to complement any meal occasion, whether it’s a weekday dinner or a more elaborate gathering with friends and family.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or melted butter)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (freshly grated)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons black pepper (freshly ground)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps to ensure a nice sear when cooking. Season both sides of the chicken with salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika (if using).
- Make the Lemon Pepper Marinade: In a small bowl, combine the lemon zest, lemon juice, black pepper, and olive oil. Stir the ingredients well to form a smooth marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts into a shallow dish or ziplock bag and pour the lemon pepper marinade over them. Make sure each piece is coated evenly. Marinate the chicken for at least 10 minutes (or up to 30 minutes for more flavor).
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil or butter and allow it to heat up. Once hot, add the marinated chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can also grill or bake the chicken if preferred.
- Serve and Garnish: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- Chicken Variations: You can use bone in chicken pieces instead of boneless breasts or thighs, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Bone in chicken typically takes longer to cook.
- Grilling Option: If you prefer grilling, you can preheat your grill to medium high heat and cook the marinated chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
- Storage: Leftover lemon pepper chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying it out.
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Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest freshly grated
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons black pepper freshly ground
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika optional
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps to ensure a nice sear when cooking. Season both sides of the chicken with salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika (if using).
- Make the Lemon Pepper Marinade: In a small bowl, combine the lemon zest, lemon juice, black pepper, and olive oil. Stir the ingredients well to form a smooth marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts into a shallow dish or ziplock bag and pour the lemon pepper marinade over them. Make sure each piece is coated evenly. Marinate the chicken for at least 10 minutes (or up to 30 minutes for more flavor).
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil or butter and allow it to heat up. Once hot, add the marinated chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can also grill or bake the chicken if preferred.
- Serve and Garnish: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- Chicken Variations: You can use bone in chicken pieces instead of boneless breasts or thighs, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Bone in chicken typically takes longer to cook.
- Grilling Option: If you prefer grilling, you can preheat your grill to medium high heat and cook the marinated chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
- Storage: Leftover lemon pepper chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying it out.
