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Lemon Pepper Chicken

Lemon Pepper Chicken
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This Lemon Pepper Chicken recipe is a quick, easy, and flavorful dish that features tender chicken breasts seasoned with fresh lemon zest, juice, cracked black pepper, and simple pantry staples. Perfectly seared to juicy perfection, it delivers a bright citrus kick combined with a peppery heat, making it a versatile and satisfying meal perfect for weeknights or entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 to 2 teaspoons fresh cracked black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for cooking)
  • Salt to taste

Optional Ingredients

  • Fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme), chopped, for garnish
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for spicy kick
  • Fresh rosemary or basil for herb infusion
  • Grated parmesan cheese for finishing

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure the seasoning adheres well. If the chicken breasts are thick, slice them in half horizontally or gently pound to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
  2. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, cracked black pepper, garlic powder, and salt. Rub this mixture thoroughly all over the chicken breasts. Let them marinate for at least 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Place the chicken breasts in the pan and cook undisturbed for 5-7 minutes until golden brown on one side. Flip the chicken and cook the other side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and juices run clear.
  4. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Finish by squeezing fresh lemon juice on top and sprinkling with chopped fresh herbs for extra flavor and freshness before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemon zest and juice for the brightest flavor; bottled lemon juice cannot replicate this.
  • Do not skip the resting time; it helps keep the chicken juicy and tender.
  • Freshly cracked black pepper offers more aroma and sharper flavor than pre-ground pepper.
  • Maintaining even thickness ensures the chicken cooks uniformly and stays moist.
  • Sear on medium-high heat to develop a flavorful crust without overcooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon pepper chicken, quick chicken recipe, easy weeknight chicken, citrus chicken, peppery chicken, gluten free chicken, healthy chicken recipe

Find it online: https://dailydishez.com/lemon-pepper-chicken/