If you are on the lookout for a dish that packs a zesty punch with minimal fuss, look no further than this Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe. It combines the tangy brightness of lemon with the sharp, aromatic kick of pepper to create a truly irresistible flavor profile. Juicy, tender chicken breasts are seared to a golden perfection and finished in the oven with a buttery lemon glaze that locks in moisture and flavor. This recipe is perfect for weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Once you try this Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe, it will quickly become one of your go-to meals!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just the right ingredients is key, and for this Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe, you’ll find that simplicity truly is the secret to spectacular taste. Each element plays an important role, whether it’s building layers of seasoning, adding moisture, or delivering that fresh citrus pop that wakes up your palate.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, providing a tender, juicy base.
- 2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning: Brings that essential tangy and peppery flavor, giving the chicken its signature zing.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds subtle warmth and depth to the seasoning mix.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances savoriness without overpowering the main flavors.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Introduces a mild smokiness and vibrant color.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and elevates all the seasonings and flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides an extra layer of mild heat and piquancy.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Perfect for searing the chicken to a beautiful golden crust.
- 1 lemon, sliced: Fresh lemon slices add citrus brightness and a lovely aroma when baked.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Melts into a rich, luscious glaze that coats the chicken.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh herbal note and a pop of green color.
How to Make Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Oven
Start by getting your oven ready at 375°F (190°C). This temperature is just right for finishing off the chicken, ensuring it cooks through tenderly while maintaining that juicy texture inside.
Step 2: Mix Your Seasonings
In a small bowl, combine your lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This seasoning blend is the flavor foundation of this Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe and will coat the chicken with a delicious, aromatic crust.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
Pat your chicken breasts dry with paper towels—this step is crucial for a good sear. Rub the seasoning mix evenly onto both sides of each breast to lock in flavor during cooking.
Step 4: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering hot, place the chicken breasts in the pan, searing for 2-3 minutes on each side until beautifully golden. This quick sear forms a flavorful outer layer that seals in the juices.
Step 5: Add Lemon and Butter
Layer lemon slices on and around the chicken in the skillet, then drop small pieces of butter around the chicken. As it melts during baking, the butter mingles with the lemon, creating a rich and tangy glaze that will soak into the meat.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the skillet straight to your preheated oven and bake the chicken for 15-20 minutes. This slow finish cooks the chicken all the way through and develops a tender, juicy texture, while allowing the lemon and spices to meld beautifully.
Step 7: Rest Before Serving
Once out of the oven, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This rest period allows the juices to redistribute, so every bite stays moist and flavorful.
Step 8: Garnish and Enjoy
Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a vibrant finish, then dig in and savor your homemade Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe that’s sure to delight!
How to Serve Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the classic garnish, but you can also sprinkle a bit of lemon zest or even some finely chopped chives to add extra color and brightness. These simple touches elevate the dish visually and enhance the fresh, zesty notes in every bite.
Side Dishes
This Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides. Consider roasted or steamed vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad tossed with a lemon vinaigrette. Rice pilaf or quinoa also complement the flavors nicely while balancing the meal nutritionally.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, plate the chicken on a bed of fluffy couscous or creamy polenta, topped with a drizzle of pan juices from the skillet. You can also arrange lemon wedges around the plate and add a sprinkle of microgreens for a restaurant-quality presentation that will wow guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the cooled chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe also freezes well. Wrap each chicken breast individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the chicken gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through, or microwave with a damp paper towel over the top to keep it moist. Avoid overheating to maintain juicy tenderness.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken for this Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe?
Absolutely! Bone-in chicken thighs or breasts can be used but may require longer cooking time to reach the proper internal temperature. Adjust the baking time accordingly and use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
Is lemon pepper seasoning store-bought or homemade better?
Both work well! Store-bought lemon pepper seasoning is convenient and consistent, but making your own allows you to tailor the balance of lemon zest and cracked pepper to your liking.
Can I grill this Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe instead of baking?
Yes! After seasoning and searing on the stovetop if you like, transfer the chicken to a preheated grill. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), turning occasionally for even char and cook-through.
What if I don’t have an ovenproof skillet?
No worries! You can sear the chicken in any skillet, then transfer it to a baking dish along with the lemon slices and butter to finish cooking in the oven.
Can I double this recipe for a larger group?
Definitely! Just make sure you have a large enough skillet or use multiple pans. Cooking times may vary slightly if chicken pieces are crowded, so keep an eye on the internal temperature for perfect results.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting about a home-cooked meal that is both simple and bursting with flavor, and this Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe fits that description perfectly. It’s bright, juicy, and incredibly easy to make, making it an ideal choice whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself. Give it a try—you’ll love how the fresh lemon and pepper transform everyday chicken into something special and memorable!
Print
Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Lemon Pepper Chicken recipe offers a flavorful and juicy meal featuring tender chicken breasts seasoned with a vibrant lemon pepper spice blend, then seared and baked to perfection. Finished with buttery lemon slices and fresh parsley, it’s a simple yet elegant dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Cooking Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the chicken after searing.
- Mix seasonings: In a small bowl, combine the lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to create a well-balanced spice rub.
- Prepare chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a good sear. Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of each chicken breast.
- Sear chicken: Heat olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until they develop a golden brown crust.
- Add lemon and butter: Arrange lemon slices on top and around the chicken in the skillet. Dot the chicken with small pieces of butter to add flavor and moisture during baking.
- Bake the chicken: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Rest the chicken: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the chicken just before serving for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Notes
- Make sure to use an ovenproof skillet to safely transfer from stovetop to oven.
- Check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure it’s safely cooked.
- For extra zest, squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the chicken before serving.
- You can substitute butter with ghee or olive oil for a dairy-free option.
- Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
