Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight dinner: Lemon Pepper Chicken! This dish is bursting with flavor and is so easy to whip up, you’ll wonder why you haven’t made it sooner. I remember the first time I tried it; the tangy lemon and zesty pepper danced together in such a delightful way that I felt like a culinary rockstar. Seriously, it’s like a hug on a plate! Plus, it takes less than 40 minutes from start to finish, which means you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen. Trust me, once you make this Lemon Pepper Chicken, it’s going to become a staple in your home, too. You’ll love how simple ingredients come together to create something so deliciously satisfying!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to make this scrumptious Lemon Pepper Chicken. Simple, right? Let’s break it down!
- 4 chicken breasts: I prefer boneless and skinless for easy prep and a tender bite.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This adds moisture and helps the seasoning stick. Extra virgin is my go-to for a richer flavor!
- 1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning: You can buy this pre-made or make your own by mixing black pepper, lemon zest, and a little salt.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: This is my secret weapon for that extra depth of flavor—everyone loves it!
- Salt to taste: Just a pinch or two will do! You can adjust based on your preference.
- Juice of 1 lemon: Freshly squeezed, please! It brings that bright, tangy kick that makes this dish sing.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: This is optional, but it adds a lovely pop of color and freshness to your dish.
Gather these ingredients, and you’re all set to create something delicious! Don’t worry if you don’t have everything—improvisation is key in cooking, and I love a little creativity in the kitchen!
How to Prepare Lemon Pepper Chicken
Alright, let’s dive into the steps for making this drool-worthy Lemon Pepper Chicken! It’s super straightforward, and I promise you’ll have it ready in no time. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be savoring the deliciousness in about 40 minutes!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first—preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden finish. No one wants undercooked chicken, right? So, let that oven warm up while you prep everything else!
Step 2: Mix the Marinade
In a bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix it all together until it’s well blended. You’re looking for a nice, slightly thick consistency that will cling beautifully to the chicken. Oh, the aroma is just divine at this stage!
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken
Now, it’s time to get your hands a little messy! Take the chicken breasts and rub that marinade all over them, making sure to cover every nook and cranny. This is super important because you want every bite to be packed with flavor. I like to really massage it in—think of it as giving your chicken a little spa treatment!
Step 4: Arrange for Baking
Place the marinated chicken breasts in a baking dish in a single layer. Now, squeeze the juice of that lovely lemon over the top. This is what gives the chicken that bright, zesty kick. Trust me, it makes a world of difference!
Step 5: Baking Time
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 25-30 minutes. To check for doneness, make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). I like to use a meat thermometer for accuracy, but you can also cut into the chicken to check that it’s no longer pink inside. Once it’s done, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. You’re going to love it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredible Flavor: The bright, zesty lemon combined with the kick of pepper creates a flavor explosion that’ll have your taste buds dancing!
- Super Simple: With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Quick to Prepare: In under 40 minutes, you can have a delicious meal on the table, making it a fantastic option for those rushed evenings.
- Healthier Choice: This dish is low-calorie and packed with protein, making it a guilt-free indulgence that fits into a healthy diet.
- Versatile: Lemon Pepper Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, from steamed veggies to fluffy rice, allowing for endless meal combinations.
- Impressive Presentation: Garnished with fresh parsley, this dish not only tastes amazing but also looks stunning, making it perfect for entertaining!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your Lemon Pepper Chicken turns out absolutely perfect! Here are my top tips to help you avoid common pitfalls and elevate your dish:
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: If you have a bit of time, consider marinating the chicken overnight. This will deepen the flavors and make it even more delicious. Just remember to keep it in the fridge!
- Don’t Skip the Thermometer: Investing in a meat thermometer is a game-changer! It takes the guesswork out of cooking chicken. Aim for that magic number of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s safely cooked through.
- Watch the Baking Time: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your chicken as it bakes. If it’s looking golden before the time is up, check the internal temperature early to avoid overcooking.
- Let It Rest: After baking, give your chicken a few minutes to rest before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and tender!
- Experiment with Seasoning: Feel free to add your twist! A sprinkle of paprika or some fresh herbs like thyme can add layers of flavor. Don’t be afraid to get creative!
- Pair Wisely: Think about your sides! Steamed veggies or a refreshing salad complement the bright flavors of the chicken, making for a well-rounded meal.
Follow these tips, and you’ll be serving up Lemon Pepper Chicken that’s not just good, but *great*! Enjoy the compliments that come your way!
Nutritional Information
Curious about what’s in this delicious Lemon Pepper Chicken? Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values per serving (one chicken breast). Keep in mind that these are estimates, and values can vary based on specific brands and preparation methods!
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 300mg
This Lemon Pepper Chicken packs a protein punch while keeping calories in check, making it a fantastic choice for a healthy meal. Enjoy every flavorful bite without any guilt!
Frequently Asked Questions
Got questions about making Lemon Pepper Chicken? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries that might pop up while you’re cooking this delightful dish.
Can I use skin-on chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Skin-on chicken can add extra flavor and moisture. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly as it may take a bit longer to reach that juicy internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What if I don’t have lemon pepper seasoning?
No problem at all! You can easily make your own by mixing black pepper, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. It’s super simple and will give you that fresh lemony flavor!
Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?
Yes, grilling is a fantastic alternative! Just make sure to preheat your grill and cook the chicken over medium heat, flipping halfway through until it reaches the right temperature. You’ll get those beautiful grill marks and a smoky flavor!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Lemon Pepper Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave, but I recommend adding a splash of water or broth while reheating to keep it juicy!
Can I add vegetables to the baking dish?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in some chopped veggies like bell peppers or zucchini alongside the chicken. Just be mindful of their cooking time so everything comes out perfectly cooked!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving Lemon Pepper Chicken, the options are practically endless! I love to pair this vibrant dish with sides that complement its zesty flavors and keep the meal light yet satisfying. Here are some of my favorite suggestions:
- Steamed Vegetables: A colorful mix of broccoli, carrots, and green beans adds a fresh crunch and balances the richness of the chicken. Just a sprinkle of salt and a squeeze of lemon juice elevate them to a whole new level!
- Fluffy Rice: Whether it’s white, brown, or even a fragrant jasmine rice, it’s a perfect base for soaking up those delicious lemony juices from the chicken. You can add a bit of butter or herbs for extra flavor!
- Quinoa Salad: For a healthy twist, try serving your chicken over a quinoa salad with diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. The nuttiness of quinoa pairs beautifully with the chicken!
- Garlic Bread: If you’re in the mood for something a little indulgent, a slice of warm garlic bread on the side is always a hit. It’s great for mopping up any extra juices!
- Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad with crunchy romaine, creamy dressing, and Parmesan cheese makes for a refreshing accompaniment that complements the lemon flavors perfectly.
No matter what you choose to serve alongside your Lemon Pepper Chicken, the key is to keep it simple and let that bright flavor shine. Enjoy your delicious meal, and get ready for the compliments!
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Print
Lemon Pepper Chicken: 5 Easy Steps to Flavor Bliss
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A flavorful lemon pepper chicken dish that is easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, and salt.
- Rub the mixture onto the chicken breasts.
- Place the chicken in a baking dish.
- Squeeze lemon juice over the chicken.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until cooked through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Serve with steamed vegetables or rice.
- Can marinate overnight for more flavor.
- Check internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C).
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: Lemon Pepper Chicken