Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe: A Zesty Delight
This recipe delivers a flavorful and juicy lemon pepper chicken that's incredibly easy to make. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend meal, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. It's packed with zesty lemon and peppery goodness, creating a truly unforgettable taste. Let's get started!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Choose quality chicken for the best results.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Provides healthy fats and helps the chicken brown beautifully.
- 1 tbsp lemon pepper seasoning: The star of the show! You can easily make your own blend, or use a store-bought variety.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Adds a savory depth of flavor.
- 1/2 tsp onion powder: Enhances the overall savory profile.
- 1/4 tsp salt: To balance the flavors.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: For an extra kick.
- 1 lemon: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness and acidity.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Preparing the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely.
- Combine the dry ingredients: In a small bowl, mix together the lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Cooking the Chicken:
- Coat the chicken: Generously rub the dry seasoning mixture all over the chicken breasts. Ensure each piece is evenly coated for consistent flavor.
- Sear the chicken (optional): For extra crispy skin, heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly browned. This step is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor.
- Bake the chicken: Transfer the skillet (or chicken directly onto a baking sheet) to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked through.
- Add lemon juice (optional): During the last 5 minutes of baking, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken for an extra burst of zesty flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
This lemon pepper chicken is incredibly versatile. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Serve it as is: Enjoy the simple perfection of the lemon pepper chicken on its own.
- Pair it with rice and vegetables: A classic and satisfying combination.
- Make it a salad: Shred the cooked chicken and add it to your favorite salad.
- Use it in sandwiches or wraps: A delicious and easy lunch or dinner option.
Tips and Variations:
- Make your own lemon pepper seasoning: Combine dried lemon peel, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder for a customized blend.
- Add some heat: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.
- Use different cuts of chicken: This recipe works well with chicken thighs, drumsticks, or even whole chicken pieces. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Meal prepping: This lemon pepper chicken is great for meal prepping. Cook a large batch and enjoy it throughout the week.
This Lemon Pepper Chicken recipe is simple, delicious, and adaptable to your preferences. Enjoy! Let us know in the comments how you enjoyed it and any variations you tried!
