Easy Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe

Name: Lemon Pepper Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Recipe By:

Olivia Carter

Posted:

February 20, 2025

Updated:

February 20, 2025

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Have you ever experienced that moment when a single dish transports you back to cherished memories? Lemon Pepper Chicken does just that! This delightful dish combines the tanginess of fresh lemon with the warm heat of cracked black pepper, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. The tender chicken soaks up the zesty marinade, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Imagine serving this vibrant dish at your next family gathering or summer barbecue. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone rushing to the table. With its bright flavors and beautiful presentation, Lemon Pepper Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Get ready to impress your guests with this simple yet sophisticated recipe that promises amazing taste and satisfaction.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Pepper Chicken

Quick and Easy Preparation: This recipe comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of zesty lemons and aromatic black pepper elevates the flavors of the chicken, resulting in a dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve this dish with rice, salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It’s also great as leftovers in wraps or salads.

Recipe preparation

Ingredients for Lemon Pepper Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts for the best results; they cook evenly and soak up the marinade beautifully.
Fresh Lemons: Choose firm lemons for juicing; their acidity will enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
Black Pepper: Coarsely grind your black pepper for more robust flavor; it complements the citrus perfectly.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness and helps retain moisture during cooking.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic not only enhances flavor but also adds an aromatic touch that pairs well with lemon.

For the Marinade:

Honey: A small amount of honey balances out the acidity of the lemon while adding a hint of sweetness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Lemon Pepper Chicken

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Marinade

In a bowl, combine fresh lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, coarsely ground black pepper, and honey. Whisk until well blended.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place boneless chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over the chicken and seal or cover. Let marinate in the fridge for at least 15 minutes but ideally up to an hour.

Step 3: Preheat Your Grill or Oven

If grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F/190°C). If baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Remove chicken from marinade and discard any leftover marinade. For grilling, cook each breast for about 6-7 minutes on each side until cooked through. For baking, place chicken in prepared baking dish and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes until internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (75°C).

Step 5: Rest Before Serving

Once cooked, let the chicken rest for about five minutes before slicing. This allows juices to redistribute.

Step 6: Serve with Style

Transfer to plates and drizzle with any remaining marinade from cooking if desired. Garnish with lemon slices or fresh herbs.

Serving and storing

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemons and garlic make all the difference in flavor; avoid bottled options if possible.
Marinate Longer for Deeper Flavor: If time allows, marinate overnight for an even richer taste that penetrates deeper into the meat.
Check Internal Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is safely cooked through but still juicy.

Mistakes to avoid

Overseasoning the chicken: One common mistake when making Lemon Pepper Chicken is using too much seasoning. While the lemon and pepper flavors are essential, an excess can overpower the dish. Use a balanced amount of lemon juice and pepper to enhance the chicken’s natural taste. Remember, you can always add more seasoning at the end if necessary.
Not marinating long enough: Marinating your chicken is key to achieving maximum flavor. Many people make the mistake of rushing this process. Ideally, let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for best results, aim for several hours or overnight in the fridge. This step allows the lemon and spices to penetrate deeply, resulting in a tastier dish.
Choosing the wrong type of chicken: Using different cuts of chicken can impact your Lemon Pepper Chicken’s texture and flavor. Opt for boneless skinless chicken breasts for a quick meal or bone-in pieces for richer flavor. Avoid using tough cuts that require longer cooking times, as they may not achieve the desired tenderness.
Cooking at too high a temperature: Cooking Lemon Pepper Chicken at excessively high temperatures can lead to burnt edges while leaving the inside undercooked. It’s important to find a moderate heat setting that ensures even cooking. Aim for a temperature around medium-high and use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Tips for Perfect Lemon Pepper Chicken

Select fresh ingredients: Always choose fresh lemons and high-quality black pepper to elevate your Lemon Pepper Chicken. The zest from fresh lemons adds an aromatic touch that enhances flavor significantly compared to dried alternatives. Freshly cracked black pepper also provides a bolder taste with more depth.
Let it rest before serving: After cooking your Lemon Pepper Chicken, allow it to rest for about five minutes before slicing into it. This resting period lets the juices redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each bite remains juicy and flavorful.

FAQs

FAQs about Lemon Pepper Chicken

What is Lemon Pepper Chicken?</h3>

Lemon Pepper C

hicken is a flavorful dish made by marinating chicken in lemon juice and black pepper, then grilling or baking it until tender. This dish is popular due to its bright citrus flavor combined with spicy notes.

<h3>How do I store leftover Lemon Pepper Chicken?

Store le

tover Lemon Pepper Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it after cooling completely.

Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?</h3></h3>

Absolutely!</

p>

While Lemon Pepper Chicken is delicious, you can adapt this recipe for turkey or fish as well. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure everything cooks evenly.

&lt;h3>What sides pair well with Lemon Pepper Chicken?</h3>

Lemon Pepper C

hicken pairs beautifully with various sides like roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or a fresh garden salad. These options complement the citrus flavor without overpowering it.

How spicy is Lemon Pepper Chicken?

The spice level of Lemon Pepper Chicken can be adjusted based on personal preference. If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the amount of black pepper used in your marinade.

Ingredients</h2>

<strong&gt

;To prepare a delicious Lemon Pepper Chicken, gather the following ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 1 tablespoon lemon zest

– 2 tablespoons lemon juice

– 1 teaspoon black pepper

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– Salt to taste

– Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

<p><strong>Follow thes</strong>e simple steps to make your Lemon Pepper Chicken:

1. Begin by preheating your grill or oven to medium heat.

2. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, black pepper, garlic powder, and salt to create a marinade.

3. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

4. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any leftover liquid.

5. Grill or bake the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked and golden brown.

6. Once done, remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.</p></p>

Serving Sugge

stions

<strong>This Lemon Pepper Chicken is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

Steamed vegetables: Broccoli or asparagus bring a fresh crunch that complements the chicken’s flavors.
Rice or quinoa: These grains absorb the zesty marinade, making each bite delicious.
Salad: A light green salad with citrus dressing enhances the dish’s bright notes.

FAQs /></p>

FAQs

<h3><h4>What can I serve with Lemon Pepper Chicken?

You can serve Lemon Pepper Chicken with various sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad. The zesty flavor of the chicken complements many dishes. For a lighter meal, consider pairing it with steamed broccoli or zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil and garlic. Additionally, lemon-flavored rice pilaf can enhance the overall experience.

How do I store leftovers of Lemon Pepper Chicken?</h4>

Store any leftover Lemon Pepper Chicken in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe container. This method helps preserve its juicy flavor for up to three months.

Can I use other cuts of chicken for this recipe?</h4>

es, you can certainly use other cuts of chicken for this Lemon Pepper Chicken recipe. Thighs or drumsticks work well too; however, cooking times may vary slightly due to different thicknesses and fat content. Ensure all pieces reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

Is Lemon Pepper

Chicken suitable

for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can prepare several servings at once, storing them individually in meal prep containers for easy access throughout the week. Just reheat when ready to enjoy!

Conclusion for Lemon Pepper Chicken

In conclusion, By marinating simple ingredients like olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and spices, you create a zesty delight that everyone will love. Whether grilled or baked, this recipe ensures juicy tenderness in every bite. Serve it alongside steamed vegetables or rice for a complete meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Enjoy this delightful dish any night of the week!

Lemon Pepper Chicken

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Print Recipe

Lemon Pepper Chicken is a delectable dish that marries the bright, zesty flavor of fresh lemons with the bold kick of cracked black pepper. This quick and easy recipe transforms tender chicken breasts into a succulent meal perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. Marinated to perfection, the chicken absorbs tangy notes, resulting in a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether grilled or baked, Lemon Pepper Chicken pairs beautifully with sides such as steamed vegetables, rice pilaf, or a refreshing salad, making it a versatile addition to your dinner rotation.

Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

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