Name: Lemon Pepper Chicken
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tbsp Lemon Pepper Seasoning; 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tbsp butter

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There’s nothing quite like the zest and brightness of Lemon Pepper Chicken to lift your spirits and bring a burst of flavor to your dinner table. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a chilly evening, and the idea of a warm, comforting meal filled with tangy lemon and aromatic pepper sounded perfect. As I cooked, the inviting aroma wafted through my kitchen, instantly making my home feel cozy. I couldn’t wait to dig in! This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience, one that I love sharing with family and friends.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
15 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
10 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
29 g

Diet:
Paleo, Whole30, Gluten-Free

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Skillet, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl

The Best Thing About This Lemon Pepper Chicken

Flavor Explosion

The first reason I absolutely adore Lemon Pepper Chicken is the incredible flavor combination. The citrusy tang of lemon paired with the spicy kick of pepper creates a taste that’s refreshing yet satisfying. It’s a dish that can brighten any meal and make even the simplest of ingredients shine!

Quick and Easy

Another aspect that makes this recipe stand out is how quickly it comes together. From start to finish, you can have this delicious dish on your table in no time. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something tasty but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.

Versatile and Adaptable

What I love most about Lemon Pepper Chicken is its versatility. You can easily swap out the protein or add in different vegetables based on what you have on hand. Feel free to get creative! It works wonderfully with fish or even vegetables for a lighter meal.

Family-Friendly

This dish is also a hit with kids! The flavors are appealing to even the pickiest eaters, and it’s an excellent way to introduce them to new tastes without overwhelming them. I often serve it during family dinners, and I’m always met with clean plates.

Healthy and Nutritious

Finally, Lemon Pepper Chicken is a healthier option compared to many other comfort foods. It’s loaded with protein from the chicken and the lemon adds a good dose of vitamin C, making it a nutritious choice for any meal. You can enjoy it guilt-free while still savoring every bite!

Recipe Ingredients for Lemon Pepper Chicken

When it comes to the ingredients for Lemon Pepper Chicken, simplicity is key. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the vibrant flavor profile that makes this dish so special. The key players here are the chicken, which provides a hearty base, and the lemon pepper seasoning, which infuses the dish with its signature zest. Let’s take a closer look at these ingredients.

1/4 cup all-purpose flour: This acts as a light coating for the chicken, helping to create a crispy exterior while sealing in moisture.
1 tbsp Lemon Pepper Seasoning: The star of the show, this seasoning gives the chicken its delightful citrus flavor with a touch of spice.
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Tender and juicy, chicken breasts are perfect for this quick-cooking dish.

2 tbsp butter: Adds richness and helps in achieving that beautiful golden color when cooking the chicken.

Cooking Method for Lemon Pepper Chicken

Cooking Lemon Pepper Chicken is straightforward and requires just a few steps. As you get started, make sure to prepare your workspace and ingredients beforehand. This not only makes the process smoother but also enhances the experience. Let’s dive into the detailed cooking instructions!

Begin by gathering all your ingredients. In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour and Lemon Pepper Seasoning. Mix well to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the flour.

Next, take the boneless, skinless chicken breasts and make sure they are thoroughly damp. This moisture will help the seasoned flour adhere better to the chicken.
Carefully coat each piece of chicken in the seasoned flour mixture, making sure every side is covered. This step adds a wonderful texture to the chicken once cooked.
Now, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the butter. Allow it to melt and bubble slightly, which indicates it’s hot enough for cooking.

Once the butter is sizzling, place the coated chicken breasts into the skillet. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; you want each piece to have enough space to cook evenly.
Cook the chicken for about 3 to 4 minutes on one side. You’ll notice it will start to turn a lovely golden brown, which is a sign it’s time to flip.
After flipping, cook the other side for another 3 to 4 minutes. Keep an eye on the color and ensure both sides are cooked through and golden.

Continue this process until all the chicken is cooked. If necessary, you can add more butter to the skillet for flavor and to prevent sticking.
Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a minute before serving. This helps keep it juicy.
Serve your Lemon Pepper Chicken warm and enjoy the delicious flavors!

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking Temperature: Always ensure your skillet is at medium heat to avoid burning the butter while achieving that golden crust on the chicken.
Don’t Rush: Allowing the chicken to cook undisturbed ensures a nice sear. Avoid flipping too often.
Resting Time: Letting your chicken rest after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender bite.

Seasoning Variations: Feel free to play with the seasoning to match your personal taste or mood!

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

If you’re looking to mix things up with Lemon Pepper Chicken, there are countless ways to adapt this recipe to suit your tastes. Here are some tips to consider:

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about three to four days.

Freezing: You can freeze cooked chicken for up to three months. Make sure it’s fully cooled before packaging it in freezer-safe bags.
Pairing: This chicken pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Herb Infusion: Consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.

Spicy Kick: If you enjoy heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.
Rice or Pasta: Serve the chicken over a bed of rice or alongside pasta to enhance your meal.

What Complements This Lemon Pepper Chicken

Fresh Salads: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette is a perfect complement to the zesty chicken.

Roasted Vegetables: Serve with seasonal roasted vegetables for a hearty and healthy meal.
Couscous or Rice: These options provide a nice base to soak up the flavorful juices of the chicken.
Occasions: This dish is perfect for casual family dinners or as a star dish during gatherings.

Storing Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them in the fridge for a quick lunch option the next day.
Seasonal Pairings: Pair this dish with fresh summer herbs during warmer months or hearty sides in winter.

FAQ

You can serve Lemon Pepper Chicken with a variety of sides. Some great options include a refreshing green salad, roasted vegetables, or a bed of fluffy rice. If you’re looking for something hearty, consider pairing it with mashed potatoes or couscous. All of these sides complement the zesty flavors of the chicken beautifully and make for a well-rounded meal.

Absolutely! While this recipe calls for boneless, skinless chicken breasts, you can easily substitute chicken thighs if you prefer. Thighs tend to be juicier and offer a richer flavor. Just be mindful of the cooking time; they may require a few extra minutes to cook through due to their higher fat content.

Yes, Lemon Pepper Chicken can be a healthy meal option, especially when cooked with minimal oil. It’s high in protein and packed with flavor thanks to the lemon pepper seasoning. Pair it with vegetables or a salad to increase its nutritional value. Just be cautious with portion sizes and added ingredients to keep it balanced.

Certainly! You can prepare the seasoned flour and coat the chicken ahead of time. Simply store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. This makes it a great option for meal prep. Additionally, cooked chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days or frozen for later meals.

Conclusion

The vibrant flavors and quick cooking time of Lemon Pepper Chicken make it a standout dish in any home kitchen. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; your taste buds will thank you for it, and it just might become a new family favorite!

Lemon Pepper Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Lemon Pepper Chicken is a quick and easy weeknight dinner filled with vibrant flavors. Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a meal you’ll want to make tonight!

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 10

Total Time 15

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

Skillet
Chef's Knife
Mixing Bowl

Ingredients

1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 tbsp Lemon Pepper Seasoning
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tbsp butter

Instructions

Begin by gathering all your ingredients. In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour and Lemon Pepper Seasoning. Mix well to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the flour.
Next, take the boneless, skinless chicken breasts and make sure they are thoroughly damp. This moisture will help the seasoned flour adhere better to the chicken.

Carefully coat each piece of chicken in the seasoned flour mixture, making sure every side is covered. This step adds a wonderful texture to the chicken once cooked.
Now, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the butter. Allow it to melt and bubble slightly, which indicates it's hot enough for cooking.
Once the butter is sizzling, place the coated chicken breasts into the skillet. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; you want each piece to have enough space to cook evenly.

Cook the chicken for about 3 to 4 minutes on one side. You’ll notice it will start to turn a lovely golden brown, which is a sign it's time to flip.
After flipping, cook the other side for another 3 to 4 minutes. Keep an eye on the color and ensure both sides are cooked through and golden.
Continue this process until all the chicken is cooked. If necessary, you can add more butter to the skillet for flavor and to prevent sticking.

Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a minute before serving. This helps keep it juicy.
Serve your Lemon Pepper Chicken warm and enjoy the delicious flavors!