If you are craving a dish that bursts with zesty, savory flavors while remaining beautifully simple, this Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe is here to steal the show. It’s a perfect balance of bright lemon and warming black pepper, all wrapped around tender, juicy chicken breasts that are quick to prepare and delightful to eat. Every bite delivers a mouthwatering harmony of seasoning, buttery richness, and fresh herbs that will make this recipe a reliable favorite for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe calls for ingredients that are both straightforward and essential, each one playing a vital role in building its irresistible flavor and texture profile.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These provide the juicy, tender base that soaks up every bit of seasoning.
- 2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning: The star of the show, bringing the bright citrus and spicy pepper punch.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds depth and a mellow aromatic note without overpowering the lemon.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory undertone and complements the garlic perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Lends a warm, smoky hint and a lovely color to the chicken.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Vital for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a little extra heat beyond the lemon pepper seasoning.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For searing the chicken to a beautiful golden crust.
- 1 lemon, sliced: Adds fresh brightness and a bit of visual appeal right on the chicken.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Infuses richness and helps carry the lemon flavor deep into the meat.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): A fresh, herbal finish that lifts the entire dish.
How to Make Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This perfect temperature ensures your chicken will bake evenly while retaining juicy tenderness.
Step 2: Mix the Seasonings
Combine the lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. This blend gives your chicken layers of flavor that marry beautifully.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
Pat your chicken breasts dry—this is key for getting that golden crust. Then rub the seasoning mix evenly over both sides of each chicken breast to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
Step 4: Sear to Perfection
Heat olive oil in an ovenproof skillet on medium-high. Add the chicken and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until you see that mouthwatering golden-brown crust forming. This step locks in juices and builds savory depth.
Step 5: Add Lemon and Butter
Place lemon slices on and around the chicken, then dot the pan with butter chunks. The butter melts into the chicken and wedges, creating a luscious, tangy sauce in the oven.
Step 6: Bake the Chicken
Pop the skillet into your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures it’s juicy and cooked through without drying out.
Step 7: Rest Before Serving
Once out of the oven, let the chicken rest in the skillet for 5 minutes. Resting allows all those delicious juices to redistribute, so your chicken stays tender and flavorful.
Step 8: Garnish and Enjoy
Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and fresh herbal aroma that completely elevates this Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe.
How to Serve Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Simple fresh parsley works wonderfully here, but you can also experiment with a bit of lemon zest or thinly sliced green onions to add a delicate crunch and brighten the plate even more.
Side Dishes
This lemony chicken pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a light, crisp salad. Rice pilaf or quinoa also soak up the buttery lemon sauce perfectly, making each bite even more satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special touch, serve your Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe on a bed of couscous or alongside garlic butter asparagus for a dinner that feels elegant yet simple. You can even slice the chicken and toss it into warm pita bread with some hummus and greens for a fresh take.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow your chicken to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay delicious for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinner on busy nights.
Freezing
If you want to save your Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe for later, it freezes well! Wrap each cooked breast tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. It’s best consumed within 2 months for optimum flavor and texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) to maintain juiciness, or microwave on medium power covered with a damp paper towel for a fast option. Avoid overheating to keep that tender texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless?
Absolutely! Bone-in chicken will take a bit longer to cook, so adjust the baking time accordingly to ensure it reaches the proper internal temperature. It also adds extra flavor during cooking.
Is this recipe suitable for grilling?
Yes! Just be sure to keep an eye on the chicken as it cooks on the grill—it may cook faster and benefit from indirect heat to avoid burning the seasoning blend.
What if I don’t have lemon pepper seasoning?
No worries! You can make a simple substitute by combining equal parts freshly ground black pepper and lemon zest along with a pinch of salt—this DIY mix works beautifully.
Can I make this dairy-free?
You certainly can by swapping the butter for olive oil or a plant-based alternative. The flavor will remain vibrant and delicious without losing moisture.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The juices should run clear, and the meat should no longer be pink inside.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe is the perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can turn into something truly special. It’s quick enough for busy nights but impressive enough to share with guests. Once you try this recipe, it will become one of your go-to meals that delivers comfort, freshness, and a touch of elegance in every bite.
Print
Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 10m
- Cook Time: 0h 20m
- Total Time: 0h 30m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Lemon Pepper Chicken recipe features tender boneless, skinless chicken breasts seasoned with a flavorful blend of lemon pepper, garlic, onion, and paprika. Searing the chicken on the stovetop locks in the juices, while baking it in the oven ensures perfectly cooked, juicy meat. Finished with fresh lemon slices, butter, and a sprinkle of parsley, this dish offers a bright and comforting meal perfect for any weeknight dinner.
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
For Cooking
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the chicken later.
- Mix Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to create the flavorful rub for the chicken.
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to help the seasoning stick better. Rub the prepared seasoning mix evenly over both sides of each chicken breast.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear each side for 2-3 minutes until they develop a golden-brown crust.
- Add Lemon and Butter: Arrange the lemon slices on top and around the chicken in the skillet. Distribute the butter by placing small pieces around the chicken for added richness.
- Bake the Chicken: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked, reaching 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 retain its juices and ensure tenderness.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the chicken before serving. Enjoy your flavorful and juicy Lemon Pepper Chicken!
Notes
- Ensure chicken breasts are evenly sized for consistent cooking.
- Use an ovenproof skillet to easily transition from stovetop to oven.
- Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer for safe consumption.
- You can substitute unsalted butter if preferred to control sodium content.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
