When I think of a delightful dinner that brings the family together, Lemon Pepper Chicken comes to mind. This succulent dish, perfectly seasoned with zesty lemon and a hint of pepper, takes just about 40 minutes from start to finish. The best part? Its golden-brown exterior paired with a buttery garlic sauce makes it irresistibly delicious.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. It’s also great for meal prep since you can easily store leftovers in the fridge.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The chicken’s tender texture pairs beautifully with the crispy seared edges.
- Lemon pepper seasoning brings a bright, fresh flavor to every bite.
- The buttery garlic sauce elevates the dish to a comforting classic.
- Cooking it in one skillet simplifies cleanup without sacrificing flavor.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients before getting started.
For the Chicken
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning
- Salt to taste
For Cooking
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons butter
For Flavor
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Use unsalted butter for more seasoning control.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts.
- Use garlic powder if fresh garlic isn’t available.
- Olive oil can be swapped for avocado oil.
- Fresh parsley can be replaced with dried herbs.
How to Make It
Here’s how to create this fantastic dish in just a few easy steps.
1. Preheat
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season
Season the chicken breasts on both sides with lemon pepper seasoning and salt.
3. Sear
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
4. Melt
In a small saucepan, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Sauce
Pour the garlic butter sauce over the chicken in the skillet.
6. Bake
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Garnish
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
Freezer: Yes, but consume within one month for best quality.
Reheat: Microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
Tips for Best Results
- Ensure the chicken is patted dry before seasoning for a better sear.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F internal temperature.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to retain juices.
- Adjust the lemon pepper seasoning to your taste preference.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables.
- Pair with rice for a complete meal.
- Complement with a fresh green salad for added crunch.
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