Lemon pepper chicken is a classic dish loved for its bright, tangy flavor and juicy, tender texture. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve guests. If you’ve ever wondered how to cook lemon pepper chicken that’s bursting with flavor and easy to make, you’re in the right place! This article will guide you step-by-step through a foolproof recipe and share tips to make your lemon pepper chicken the best you’ve ever had.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients:
– 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning (salt-free preferred)
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour or arrowroot powder
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
– 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
– Lemon zest from 1 lemon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Lemon Pepper Chicken
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by slicing the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets. This helps the chicken cook evenly and quickly while staying juicy. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.
In a small bowl, mix the flour and lemon pepper seasoning together. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over both sides of each chicken cutlet, pressing gently to help it stick.
2. Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add the chicken cutlets and cook for about 4-6 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden-brown crust and reach an internal temperature of 160-165°F. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate, covering loosely to keep warm.
3. Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping the bottom of the pan to lift all the flavorful browned bits. Add the lemon zest and let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced and thickened. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
4. Finish and Serve
Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over each piece. Let the chicken warm through for a couple of minutes, allowing it to soak up the delicious lemon garlic sauce.
Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and garnish with lemon slices if desired. Serve hot with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Tips for the Best Lemon Pepper Chicken
– Don’t overcook the chicken: Chicken breasts can dry out quickly. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F.
– Preheat your skillet: A hot pan ensures a beautiful sear and locks in juices.
– Use fresh lemon juice and zest: This adds brightness and authentic citrus flavor that bottled lemon juice can’t match.
– Make extra sauce: The buttery lemon sauce is so good, you’ll want plenty to drizzle over your chicken and sides.
– Try adding herbs: Fresh basil or dill can be great alternatives to parsley for garnish.
Variations to Try
– Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for a richer flavor.
– Serve the chicken over zucchini noodles or pasta for a complete meal.
– Include roasted asparagus or sautéed green beans as a fresh side.
Lemon pepper chicken is a versatile dish that’s easy to customize and always a crowd-pleaser.
This recipe is straightforward, quick, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right at home. Give it a try and enjoy the zesty, buttery goodness of lemon pepper chicken tonight!