Lemon Pepper Chicken
Introduction
Lemon Pepper Chicken is a simple and tasty dish that you can make in no time. This recipe combines the zestiness of lemon with the bold flavors of pepper. It’s perfect for any meal, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue. The chicken is juicy, flavorful, and sure to please everyone at your table. Plus, it doesn’t need a lot of fancy ingredients or complicated steps, making it a great choice for cooks of all skill levels.
Why Make This Recipe
You should make Lemon Pepper Chicken because it’s quick, easy, and delicious! The combination of lemon and pepper brings a fresh and savory taste to chicken breasts. It’s a wholesome meal that pairs well with salads, rice, or veggies. Not only is it satisfying, but it’s also healthy. This dish can easily fit into various diets, making it a versatile choice for feeding your family or guests. Moreover, it takes under 30 minutes to prepare, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones.
How to Make Lemon Pepper Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
- In a small bowl, mix together the lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, and salt.
- Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, then sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over both sides of each breast.
- Grill or cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This ensures the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken shortly before removing it from the heat. This will give it a nice tangy flavor.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps keep the juices inside the chicken, making it tender.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.
How to Serve Lemon Pepper Chicken
You can serve Lemon Pepper Chicken with many sides. It goes well with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad. You can also add some grilled vegetables or a slice of lemon on the side for extra color and flavor. If you have leftovers, they can be sliced and added to salads or wraps for a flavorful lunch.
How to Store Lemon Pepper Chicken
If you have any leftovers, let the chicken cool down to room temperature. Then, place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the chicken for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Tips to Make Lemon Pepper Chicken
- Make sure your chicken breasts are even in thickness for even cooking. You can pound them to flatten slightly if needed.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of lemon pepper seasoning to your taste. If you like it spicier, add more pepper.
- Letting the chicken rest after cooking is essential. This will keep it juicy and delicious.
- You can marinate the chicken in the lemon juice and seasoning for an hour or more for even more flavor.
Variation (If Any)
You can change up the flavors by adding herbs such as rosemary or thyme. A pinch of paprika can also add an extra layer of flavor. If you want it a bit spicy, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix. You can also use thighs or drumsticks instead of breasts for a different texture.
FAQs
-
Can I use frozen chicken breasts? Yes, but it’s best to thaw them before cooking. This helps to cook them evenly and properly.
-
What can I use instead of lemon pepper seasoning? You can mix equal parts of black pepper and lemon zest if you don’t have lemon pepper seasoning.
-
Can I cook this chicken in the oven? Yes, you can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Just add the lemon juice during the last few minutes of baking.