If you have been on the hunt for a flavorful, easy-to-make dinner that feels special without demanding too much time, this Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe will quickly become your go-to. Juicy chicken breasts coated in a zesty, aromatic blend of lemon pepper seasoning and complementary spices, seared to golden perfection and finished off in the oven with fresh lemon slices and butter, create a perfect harmony of tangy, savory, and buttery notes. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this dish promises to brighten your meal and bring smiles all around.

Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward yet crucial for achieving that irresistible balance of citrus brightness and savory warmth in your Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe. Each item plays a vital role in building the layers of flavor and giving the dish its stunning aroma and color.

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the recipe, lean and tender, perfect for soaking up all those vibrant seasonings.
2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning: This zesty mix provides that signature tang and peppery kick, essential for true flavor depth.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a mellow but unmistakable savory undertone that complements lemon perfectly.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory profile with subtle sweetness and complexity.
1 teaspoon paprika: Brings mild smokiness and a warm color to the dish, making it visually inviting.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and intensifies the other flavors without overpowering.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a sharp, fragrant bite for a well-rounded seasoning.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Perfect for searing, ensuring the chicken develops that golden crust.
1 lemon, sliced: Fresh slices infuse the chicken with bright citrus oils and an elegant look.
2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and a silky finish to the pan juices and chicken.
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): A pop of color and freshness to finish off your dish beautifully.

How to Make Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Seasoning

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring it’s ready to cook your chicken to juicy perfection. Meanwhile, create the seasoning blend by mixing lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. This blend is the heart of the Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe, marrying all those savory and citrus notes that make this dish a knockout.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Take the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels—this step is key for a nice sear. Evenly rub the seasoning mixture over both sides of each chicken breast so every bite is bursting with flavor. This careful seasoning lays the foundation for the delicious crust you’ll develop next.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add your chicken breasts and sear them for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they develop a gorgeous golden brown color. This process locks in the juices and adds a lovely texture contrast that elevates the entire dish.

Step 4: Add Lemon and Butter, Then Bake

Arrange lemon slices both on top of and around the chicken breasts in the skillet. Dot the pan with butter pieces, which will melt into the chicken during baking, enriching it with a creamy, tangy flavor. Transfer the skillet carefully to the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), ensuring it stays tender and fully cooked.

Step 5: Rest and Garnish

Once out of the oven, let your chicken rest for 5 minutes in the skillet—this resting period lets the juices redistribute so every bite is juicy and flavorful. Finally, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the chicken for a vibrant, fresh touch that brightens the dish visually and adds a mild herbaceous note to the flavor profile.

How to Serve Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

Don’t underestimate the power of garnishes! Fresh parsley is a classic choice, adding a gentle pop of green and a fresh flavor contrast. For an additional lemony aroma and aesthetic appeal, feel free to add thin lemon wedges or a zest sprinkle. These little extras turn this straightforward dish into a restaurant-worthy presentation.

Side Dishes

Lemon Pepper Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a wholesome meal, serve it alongside fluffy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables like asparagus or green beans. Light and fresh options such as a crisp garden salad or quinoa salad also complement the citrusy flavors beautifully, balancing richness with brightness.

Creative Ways to Present

For entertaining, present the chicken on a large platter with lemon slices arranged artfully around it and a scattering of chopped parsley. You can slice the breasts into thick pieces for easier serving or even layer the chicken on a bed of rice or creamy polenta for an elegant touch. The contrasting colors and textures will impress your guests and make mealtime feel special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers from your Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the chicken properly sealed helps maintain its moisture and flavor so your next meal is just as satisfying as the first.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked Lemon Pepper Chicken to extend its shelf life for up to 2 months. Wrap each breast tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge to preserve texture and taste.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently to keep the chicken tender: either warm in a low oven (around 300°F / 150°C) for about 10-15 minutes or use a microwave at medium power in short bursts. Adding a little splash of chicken broth or water during reheating can help prevent dryness, keeping your Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe delicious every time.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken breasts for this recipe?

Absolutely! Bone-in breasts will take a bit longer to cook, so adjust your baking time accordingly and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The bone can add extra flavor, making this dish even more savory.

Is lemon pepper seasoning easy to make at home?

Yes! Lemon pepper seasoning is a simple blend of black pepper, lemon zest, salt, and sometimes garlic or onion powder. Making your own lets you customize the flavors and avoid additives found in store-bought versions.

Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?

Grilling is a fantastic alternative that adds smoky char to the chicken. Season and sear first, then grill over medium heat until cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side. Just be sure to keep an eye on it to avoid drying out.

What if I don’t have an ovenproof skillet?

No worries! You can sear the chicken in a regular skillet, then transfer the breasts to a baking dish for finishing in the oven. Just be careful not to lose any of those delicious browned bits!

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Yes, this Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe is naturally gluten-free since it uses whole spices and fresh ingredients. Always double-check your lemon pepper seasoning to ensure no gluten-containing additives are present.

Final Thoughts

There is something so comforting yet lively about this Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe, and once you try it, I’m confident it will have a permanent spot in your meal rotation. With its irresistible combination of zesty citrus, aromatic spices, and tender chicken, this dish never fails to satisfy. So go ahead, gather your ingredients and treat yourself and your loved ones to a meal full of sunshine and flavor that’s simple to prepare and delightful to eat!

Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe

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4.3 from 78 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

A flavorful and easy-to-make Lemon Pepper Chicken recipe featuring juicy, tender chicken breasts seasoned with a zesty lemon pepper blend, seared to a golden brown, and baked to perfection with fresh lemon slices and butter for added richness. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal.

Ingredients

Scale

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 and Garnish

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lemon, sliced
2 tablespoons butter
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the chicken later.
Mix Seasonings: In a small bowl, combine the lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful spice blend.
Prepare Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear, then evenly rub the seasoning mixture over both sides of each breast.
Sear 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 golden brown and flavorful.
Add Lemons and Butter: Arrange the lemon slices on top and around the chicken in the skillet. Dot the chicken with small pieces of butter to add richness during baking.
Bake the Chicken: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and 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 allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes to retain juices and enhance tenderness.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the chicken before serving for a fresh, vibrant finish. Enjoy your delicious Lemon Pepper Chicken!

Notes

Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
For extra zest, squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the cooked chicken before serving.
This recipe works well with bone-in chicken breasts, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
Use an ovenproof skillet to avoid transferring chicken to another baking dish.
Butter adds richness; substitute with olive oil for a lighter option if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American