Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lemon Pepper Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the tangy zest of lemon with the bold kick of black pepper. This quick and easy recipe delivers a juicy, tender chicken breast coated in a zesty lemon pepper seasoning, complemented by a rich garlic butter sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or st Lemon Pepper Chicken eamed vegetables.

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 1.3 lbs total)
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning
1 tablespoon cooking oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon butter
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
1/8 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts horizontally to create two thinner cutlets.
Season and Dredge: In a shallow dish, combine the flour and lemon pepper seasoning. Lightly moisten the chicken cutlets with water and dredge them in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring an even coat.
Sear the Chicken: Heat the cooking oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken cutlets and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, stirring to combine and deglaze the skillet. Allow the sauce to simmer for 3–5 minutes, or until slightly reduced.
Combine and Serve: Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Let it simmer for an additional 2 minutes to heat through. Garnish with chopped parsley and freshly cracked black pepper before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.
Spicy Kick: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for a spicy twist.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the sauce for added depth of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture. Alternatively, microwave on a microwave-safe plate, covered, for 1–2 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used. They may require a slightly longer cooking time due to their higher fat content.

Is lemon pepper seasoning available in stores?

Yes, lemon pepper seasoning is widely available in most grocery stores. Alternatively, you can make your own by combining dried lemon zest with cracked black pepper.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

While the chicken can be seasoned and dredged ahead of time, it’s best to cook and prepare the sauce just before serving to maintain optimal flavor and texture.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Lemon Pepper Chicken pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, rice pilaf, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative like olive oil or a plant-based butter.

How can I make the sauce creamier?

For a creamier sauce, add 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or coconut milk to the skillet after simmering the broth and lemon juice.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Lemon Pepper Chicken is great for meal prep. Store the chicken and sauce separately to prevent the chicken from becoming soggy.

Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-frying?

Yes, grilling the chicken adds a smoky flavor. Season and grill the chicken over medium heat for 6–7 minutes per side, then proceed with the sauce preparation as directed.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used as a substitute if necessary.

Conclusion

Lemon Pepper Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together the bright flavors of lemon and the boldness of black pepper. With its simple preparation and versatile pairing options, it’s sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this recipe offers a delicious and satisfying option for chicken lovers.