Lemon Pepper Chicken

Growing up, my family had a tradition of Sunday dinners, and one of our favorites was always Lemon Pepper Chicken. The scent of zesty lemons and fragrant pepper wafting through the house felt like a warm hug. I remember standing by my mom’s side, eagerly watching as she expertly seasoned the chicken, transforming simple ingredients into something truly extraordinary. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a nostalgic reminder of shared moments around the dinner table, laughter, and the importance of family. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Lemon Pepper Chicken never fails to impress. It’s simple yet elegant, and each bite bursts with flavor, making it a go-to recipe for people of all ages.

What You Need for Lemon Pepper Chicken

To create the magic of Lemon Pepper Chicken, you need a blend of fresh ingredients that work harmoniously together. The star of this dish is undoubtedly the chicken, complemented by the zestiness of lemons and the simple touch of spices. Each ingredient serves a purpose, making the dish flavorful yet uncomplicated. Let’s take a closer look at what you need.

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 8-10 ounces each) – The foundation of this recipe, they create the perfect base for seasoning and cooking.
• 2 fresh lemons – Essential for the citrusy brightness that defines this dish.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps to keep the chicken moist while adding a rich flavor.
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Used for dredging the chicken, giving it a crispy exterior when cooked.
• ½ to ¾ teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• 2½ teaspoons cracked black pepper – Adds necessary heat and depth.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder – A subtle touch of flavor that complements the other ingredients.
• Fresh parsley for garnish – A pop of color and freshness to the finished dish.

How to Prepare Lemon Pepper Chicken

Preparing Lemon Pepper Chicken is a straightforward process, but it’s all about the details that make it shine. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.

1. Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create two thinner cutlets. For even cooking, lightly pound them to a uniform thickness of about ½ inch. This technique helps the chicken cook through evenly and remain juicy.

2. Grate the zest from the lemons to yield 1½ to 2 tablespoons of zest, being careful to avoid the bitter white pith. This zest will imbue the chicken with a vibrant lemon flavor.

3. Combine the lemon zest with 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a bowl. Coat the chicken cutlets thoroughly with the lemon oil mixture, ensuring every piece is well-covered.

4. In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. This mixture will create a delicious crust for the chicken.

5. Dredge each lemon-oil-coated chicken cutlet in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. This step adds a nice crunch to the chicken as it cooks.

6. Heat the remaining olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken cutlets. Cook for 4 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through. Look for a beautiful golden-brown color to indicate they’re ready to flip.

7. If desired, thinly slice the zested lemons and briefly cook the slices in the skillet until caramelized. This adds a lovely garnish and an extra punch of lemon flavor.

8. Garnish the cooked chicken with fresh parsley and serve immediately. The vibrant green parsley not only adds color but also freshness to the dish.

Ways to Customize

While Lemon Pepper Chicken is delicious as is, there are countless ways to customize it to suit your tastes. Here are some ideas to inspire your culinary creativity.

• Add herbs: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill for additional flavor complexity.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the flour mixture for an extra kick.
• Try different citrus: Substitute or add flavors from oranges or limes for a unique twist.
• Top with cheese: For a richer flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of parmesan cheese just before serving.
• Serve with various sides: Pair the chicken with everything from mashed potatoes to quinoa salads for a complete meal.

Perfect Pairings for Lemon Pepper Chicken

• Roasted vegetables: Pair Lemon Pepper Chicken with a side of roasted asparagus or Brussels sprouts for a healthy and colorful addition.
• Rice or quinoa: Serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or nutty quinoa to soak up all the delicious juices.
• Fresh salad: A crisp side salad with a light vinaigrette complements the zesty flavors of the chicken.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even a romantic date night at home.
• Seasonal pairings: Enjoy it during warmer months for an outdoor barbecue or a light summer dinner.

FAQ

Conclusion

Lemon Pepper Chicken truly stands out for its bright and zesty flavors that can elevate any meal. It’s not just a dish; it’s a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients that create delicious results. I encourage you to try this recipe and share it with your loved ones. Whether it’s for a cozy dinner at home or a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress!

Lemon Pepper Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Lemon Pepper Chicken offers a mouthwatering blend of zesty lemon and savory pepper. This easy weeknight dinner is packed with flavor and guaranteed to impress your family. Make it tonight for a meal they won’t forget!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

• Grater
• Mixing Bowl
• Skillet
• Chef's Knife
• Whisk

Ingredients

  

• 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts approximately 8-10 ounces each
• 2 pieces fresh lemons
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ½ to ¾ teaspoon salt
• 2½ teaspoons cracked black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• to taste Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

 

• Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create two thinner cutlets. For even cooking, lightly pound them to a uniform thickness of about ½ inch.
• Grate the zest from the lemons to yield 1½ to 2 tablespoons of zest, being careful to avoid the bitter white pith.
• Combine the lemon zest with 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a bowl. Coat the chicken cutlets thoroughly with the lemon oil mixture.
• In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
• Dredge each lemon-oil-coated chicken cutlet in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
• Heat the remaining olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 4 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through.
• If desired, thinly slice the zested lemons and briefly cook the slices in the skillet until caramelized.
• Garnish the cooked chicken with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat before serving.
• Pairing: Consider serving with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
• Variations: Feel free to add other spices or herbs to suit your taste.
• Don’t skip the zest: The lemon zest is essential for that bright flavor!

Keyword Easy Lemon Pepper Chicken, healthy chicken recipe, Lemon Chicken Recipe, Zesty Chicken Dish