Zesty Lemon Pepper Chicken: A Weeknight Winner

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Ever had one of those days? Me too. This lemon pepper chicken recipe is the answer. Honestly, it is quick, easy, and bursts with flavor.

Brief Overview

This lemon chicken recipe has roots in classic Italian-American cooking. It is an easy recipe, ready in about 35 minutes. This recipe makes 4 servings. Perfect for a weeknight meal.

Main Benefits

This healthy baked lemon chicken is packed with protein. It is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. What makes this recipe special? It is so simple yet so satisfying.

Are you ready to learn more about ingredients of easy lemon pepper chicken recipe ?

Zesty Lemon Pepper Chicken: A Weeknight Winner Recipe Card

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Preparation time:15 Mins

Cooking time:20 Mins

Servings:4 servings

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz/170g each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (30ml)
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 1 large lemon)
• 2 tablespoons freshly cracked black pepper (or coarse ground)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick!)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (30g)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed, about 1/2 lemon)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

• Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
• In a small bowl, combine lemon zest, black pepper, garlic powder, salt, and red pepper flakes (if using). Rub the mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into the hot skillet.
• Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest. Add butter to the skillet and let it melt. Stir in lemon juice and parsley. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the sauce slightly thickens.
• Spoon the lemon butter sauce (if using) over the chicken and serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts

Calories:300 calories

Fat:12g

Fiber:2g

Recipe Info

Category:Main Course

Cuisine:American

Making the Zesty Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe

This lemon pepper chicken recipe is not just a dish; it's an experience. i remember the first time i made it.

My friends were impressed! it is easier than it looks. i promise!

This recipe falls under the umbrella of delicious chicken entrees . It is so simple, it practically cooks itself.

Time-Saving Tips for Quick Chicken Dinner Recipes

We've all been there. short on time, but still crave something tasty. this dish is your shortcut to culinary satisfaction.

You can even prep the chicken ahead. marinate it for maximum flavor. this recipe is a true weeknight hero. a family favourite at my home.

So next time your looking for some Weeknight chicken recipes or a Pan fried lemon pepper chicken recipe think of this recipe!

Ingredients & Equipment for the Best Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe

Let's dive into what you'll need to whip up this amazing lemon pepper chicken recipe . Trust me; it’s easier than finding a decent parking spot on a Saturday.

Main Ingredients: Your Shopping List

Here’s the curated list of ingredients. No stress, I got you covered. This list will ensure you have a perfect base to create some amazing chicken entrees .

• Chicken Breasts: You'll need 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz/170g each). Quality matters! Look for chicken that’s pink and firm. Avoid anything that looks pale or feels slimy.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons ( 30ml ) This is essential for cooking your crispy chicken breast perfectly.
• Lemon Zest: 1 tablespoon (from about 1 large lemon). Fresh zest is key. It smells amazing and tastes even better.
• Black Pepper: 2 tablespoons freshly cracked or coarse ground. Don't skimp on the pepper!
• Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon . Because garlic makes everything better.
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon . Just the right amount.
• Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (optional, for a bit of a kick!). Adds a little somethin' somethin'.

For the Lemon Butter Sauce (Optional)

• Unsalted Butter: 2 tablespoons ( 30g ) Makes the sauce velvety.
• Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed (about 1/2 lemon). Adds the final touch of flavour
• Fresh Parsley: 1 tablespoon chopped (for garnish). Adds a touch of colour.

Seasoning Secrets: Flavor Power-Ups

This easy lemon pepper chicken recipe is all about the seasoning. We're aiming for a vibrant, zesty flavor.

A good combo is lemon zest, freshly cracked black pepper, and garlic powder. the zest brings the brightness, pepper adds depth, and garlic gives it a savory kick.

For a twist, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika. don't have garlic powder? use a clove of minced garlic instead.

For lemon pepper chicken thighs you can replace lemon with lime.

Equipment: Keep It Simple

You really don't need fancy stuff for this pan fried lemon pepper chicken . The quick chicken dinner recipes don't require fancy equipment!

• A large skillet (cast iron or non-stick) is a must.
• A citrus zester makes quick work of the lemon zest.
• A lemon juicer is handy but not essential.
• A meat thermometer (optional) ensures the chicken reaches 165° F ( 74° C) .

Zesty Lemon Pepper Chicken: The Perfect Pan-Fried Treat

Want a super tasty and easy lemon pepper chicken recipe ? honestly, this is the one. it’s become my go-to quick chicken dinner recipe when i'm short on time.

And trust me, that's most weeknights! no fancy skills needed.

Prep Like a Pro (Even When You're Not)

First things first, get organized. this is the essential mise en place. grab those 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6oz each).

Next, get your 2 tablespoons olive oil , 1 tablespoon lemon zest , and 2 tablespoons of freshly cracked black pepper ready.

Seriously, freshly cracked pepper makes a huge difference! also, have your 1 teaspoon garlic powder , 1/2 teaspoon salt , and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (if you're feeling spicy!) measured out.

Time-saving tip: zest your lemon before juicing it, duh! safety first: wash your hands.

The Chicken-Cooking Dance

1. Pat the chicken dry. This is super important for crispy chicken.
2. Mix your lemon zest, pepper, garlic powder, salt, and red pepper flakes.
3. Rub that mixture all over the chicken. Get every nook and cranny.
4. Heat olive oil in your pan over medium-high heat. It should shimmer, not smoke.
5. Cook chicken 5- 7 minutes per side , until golden brown and reaches 165° F ( 74° C) .

My Secret (Not So Secret) Pro Tips

Want the best pan fried lemon pepper chicken ever? don't overcrowd the pan. cook in batches if you have to.

Avoid using pre-ground pepper. freshly cracked pepper adds so much more flavour. honestly, it's worth the extra effort! and definitely let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking.

This keeps it juicy. you can make the seasoning blend ahead of time. store it in an airtight container for up to a week.

I've tried making this healthy baked lemon chicken before, but it just doesn't have the same deliciousness as when pan-fried, if you ask me.

This lemon pepper chicken recipe isn't just delicious, it is also versatile. think chicken entrees with a kick, or maybe lemon pepper chicken thighs for a change up.

And for a complete balanced meal try making lemon pepper chicken with vegetables . you are welcome.

Recipe Notes for Zesty Lemon Pepper Chicken

Okay, so you've got the lowdown on my lemon pepper chicken recipe . before you dive in, let's chat about a few things.

Little tips and tricks, yeah? makes all the difference, honestly. this easy lemon pepper chicken recipe is so versatile.

Serving Suggestions: Making it Look Swanky

Right, so you've cooked this epic lemon chicken recipe . don't just slap it on a plate, yeah? i like to plate it up with a few sprigs of fresh parsley.

A wedge of lemon adds a pop of colour. for sides, roasted asparagus with parmesan is chef's kiss . a light quinoa salad works wonders too.

Thirsty? a crisp sauvignon blanc is mint, or just a simple lemonade.

Storage Tips: Keepin' it Fresh

Got leftovers? lucky you! let the crispy chicken breast cool completely first. then, whack it in an airtight container. it'll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Don't recommend freezing this one, mate. reheating? pop it in the microwave, or better still, back in a skillet for a few minutes.

Keep an eye though! don't want to dry out the chicken entrees .

Variations: Switch it Up a Bit

Fancy a change? i got you! want to make it gluten-free? you're in luck, it already is! try using lemon pepper chicken thighs instead of breasts.

Just remember, they might need a bit longer to cook. get adventurous and use lime instead of lemon. boom! mind blown, innit? for a nice addition include lemon pepper chicken with vegetables .

Nutrition Basics: The Good Stuff

Alright, let's talk healthy. each serving of this healthy baked lemon chicken is around 300 calories. you get a whopping 40g of protein.

Loads to keep you going, yeah? it's relatively low in carbs, around 2g. sodium's about 400mg, depending how much salt you chuck in.

Remember, these are just estimates! this recipe is great if you're looking for quick chicken dinner recipes or weeknight chicken recipes .

So there you have it! my notes on the pan fried lemon pepper chicken . cooking shouldn't be scary, yeah? give this recipe a go, have some fun, and make it your own.

You got this!