Easy Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe
Savor the fresh, tangy flavors of this easy-to-make Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe. With a homemade lemon pepper seasoning and a buttery lemon sauce, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this recipe is quick, flavorful, and sure to impress.
Ingredients for Lemon Pepper Chicken
For the Lemon Pepper Seasoning:
- Dried lemon peel
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Dried thyme (optional)
For the Chicken:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- All-purpose flour
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Fresh lemon juice
- Unsalted butter
How to Make Lemon Pepper Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Lemon Pepper Seasoning
Grind dried lemon peel in a coffee grinder or food processor until finely ground. Mix in kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme (if using) to create the seasoning blend.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken with Lemon Pepper Flour
Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and carefully slice them horizontally to create thinner fillets. In a shallow dish, combine all-purpose flour with the prepared lemon pepper seasoning. Dredge each chicken piece in the flour mixture, ensuring both sides are coated.
Step 3: Cook the Lemon Pepper Chicken
Heat extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the coated chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until golden brown on each side and cooked through. Depending on the size of your skillet, you may need to cook the chicken in batches. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Lemon-Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, add unsalted butter and fresh lemon juice. Stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet, until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Lemon Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, coating each piece with the lemon-butter sauce. Serve the chicken warm, drizzled with additional sauce from the skillet.
Prep and Cooking Time for Lemon Pepper Chicken
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
People Also Ask About Lemon Pepper Chicken
1. What can I serve with Lemon Pepper Chicken?
Lemon Pepper Chicken pairs well with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it with rice or roasted potatoes.
2. Can I use store-bought lemon pepper seasoning?
Yes, you can use store-bought lemon pepper seasoning if you’re short on time. However, making your own seasoning blend allows you to control the flavor and avoid preservatives.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Lemon Pepper Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.
4. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work well in this recipe and add a richer flavor. Adjust cooking time as needed, as thighs may take slightly longer to cook through.
5. Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour for dredging the chicken.
Enjoy this delicious and easy Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe that’s perfect for any occasion!
