Sizzling Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe for Tangy Dinner Magic

Crispy and zesty lemon pepper chicken brings a burst of vibrant flavors to your dinner table.

Mediterranean kitchens have long celebrated this delightful combination of tangy citrus and bold spices.

Succulent chicken pieces shine with a perfectly seasoned coating that crunches deliciously.

Weeknight meals become extraordinary when you infuse simple ingredients with bright, punchy seasonings.

Home cooks adore how quickly this dish comes together without complicated techniques.

Fresh herbs and a quick marinade make this recipe irresistibly simple and packed with robust taste.

Zesty Lemon Pepper Chicken to Savor

• Boost Flavor Intensity: Marinating chicken infuses deep, zesty lemon-pepper notes that transform a basic protein into a mouthwatering meal.
• Master Quick Cooking: Minimal preparation steps and straightforward grilling technique make this recipe perfect for beginners and busy home cooks seeking a delicious dinner solution.
• Versatile Meal Option: Serves perfectly as a main course for family dinners, weekend gatherings, or casual meal prep, adapting easily to different side dishes and dietary preferences.
• Healthy Protein Choice: Lean chicken combined with bright citrus and minimal oil creates a nutritious dish packed with protein and tangy, satisfying flavors that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients for Lemon Pepper Chicken

• Chicken Breasts: Tender and lean meat that serves as the primary protein in this zesty recipe.

• Lemon Juice, Olive Oil: Fresh citrus and smooth oil that tenderize and add bright flavor to the chicken.
• Minced Garlic: Aromatic ingredient that provides a robust and savory base note to the marinade.
• Lemon Pepper Seasoning: Classic spice blend that delivers a tangy and peppery kick to the chicken.

• Fresh Parsley, Lemon Wedges: Optional herbs and citrus that can add a fresh and colorful finishing touch to the dish.

Step-by-Step Lemon Pepper Chicken Instructions

Step 1: Whip Up the Marinade

Grab a large bowl and mix together fresh lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, crushed garlic cloves, and a generous sprinkle of lemon pepper seasoning. Coat the chicken pieces completely in this tangy mixture, ensuring every inch gets maximum flavor.

Let the chicken soak up these incredible flavors for at least 30 minutes, or even better, overnight in the refrigerator.

Step 2: Heat Things Up

Fire up your grill or cast-iron skillet to medium-high heat.

You want a nice sizzle when the chicken touches the cooking surface. If using a skillet, add a touch of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken to Perfection

Carefully place the marinated chicken onto the hot surface. Listen for that satisfying sizzle that promises a crispy exterior.

Cook each side for approximately 6-7 minutes, turning only once to create beautiful golden-brown grill marks or a crispy crust.

Step 4: Check for Doneness

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.

This guarantees juicy, fully cooked chicken that’s safe to eat.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes.

This magical resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite incredibly tender and flavorful. Slice against the grain and serve hot.

Tips to Perfect Lemon Pepper Chicken

• Pat chicken dry before marinating to help seasoning stick better and ensure crispy exterior.
• Adjust marinating time based on chicken thickness; thinner cuts need less time to prevent over-seasoning.
• Use fresh lemon juice for brighter, more vibrant flavor compared to bottled alternatives.
• For gluten-free option, verify lemon pepper seasoning ingredients or make homemade blend using salt, black pepper, and lemon zest.
• Let chicken come to room temperature before grilling to promote even cooking and prevent dry meat.

Variations of Lemon Pepper Chicken to Explore

• Herb-Infused Citrus Chicken: Replace lemon pepper seasoning with a blend of fresh rosemary, thyme, and orange zest for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.
• Spicy Cajun Lemon Chicken: Swap lemon pepper seasoning with Cajun spice mix and add a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for a fiery kick.
• Gluten-Free Lemon Herb Chicken: Use tamari instead of traditional seasonings and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free for sensitive diets.
• Low-Sodium Zesty Chicken: Substitute salt-based seasonings with herb blends and fresh lemon juice to reduce sodium content while maintaining bold flavor.

Pairing Ideas for Lemon Pepper Chicken

• Choose a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio that complements the bright lemon flavors and cuts through the chicken's richness with its refreshing acidity.
• Toss mixed greens with cucumber, feta cheese, and a light lemon vinaigrette to echo the recipe's citrusy profile and provide a cool, tangy side dish.
• Prepare crispy potato wedges seasoned with similar herbs and a touch of lemon pepper to harmonize with the chicken's flavor profile and add textural contrast.
• Serve a lemon-infused sparkling water to cleanse the palate and enhance the dish's zesty, light characteristics without overwhelming the delicate chicken flavors.

Proper Storage for Lemon Pepper Chicken

• Refrigerate: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping it fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Freeze: Wrap individual chicken pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag, lasting up to 3 months when properly sealed.
• Microwave Reheat: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and warm at 50% power for 1-2 minutes, checking temperature to prevent dryness.
• Oven Reheat: Preheat oven to 350°F, place chicken in a baking dish with a splash of chicken broth, cover with foil, and warm for 10-15 minutes to retain moisture.

FAQs

• What type of chicken works best for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are ideal. They absorb the marinade well and cook evenly, ensuring tender and flavorful results.

• Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch. Just ensure it’s 100% pure lemon juice without added preservatives.

• How can I tell if the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This ensures the chicken is safe to eat and prevents overcooking.

Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe

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4.5 from 9 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent lemon pepper chicken delivers zesty Mediterranean flavors with minimal effort. Herb-infused marinade and quick roasting technique promise restaurant-quality results for home cooks seeking delicious weeknight dinner inspiration.

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Ingredients

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• 4 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless, about 6 oz/170 g each)
• 2 lemons (large, fresh, juiced)
• 3 tbsps extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsps lemon pepper seasoning
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)

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Instructions

1. Combine lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, and lemon pepper seasoning in a non-reactive container, creating a vibrant marinade for the chicken.
2. Submerge chicken pieces completely in the marinade, ensuring each surface is coated evenly, and refrigerate for 30-45 minutes to maximize flavor absorption.
3. Heat grill or cast-iron skillet to medium-high temperature, around 400°F, ensuring cooking surface is thoroughly warmed before adding chicken.
4. Remove chicken from marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off, and place carefully onto heated cooking surface.
5. Cook chicken for approximately 6-7 minutes on each side, monitoring for golden-brown exterior and crisp edges.
6. Use a meat thermometer to confirm internal temperature has reached 165°F, guaranteeing thorough cooking and food safety.
7. Transfer chicken to a clean cutting board and let rest for 4-5 minutes, allowing juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
8. Slice chicken against the grain into thin, uniform pieces, revealing a juicy and flavorful interior.
9. Garnish with fresh lemon zest or chopped parsley for an extra burst of brightness and serve immediately.

Notes

• Ensure chicken is at room temperature before marinating to help it absorb flavors more effectively.
• Use fresh lemon juice for brighter, more vibrant citrus notes that enhance the overall taste profile.
• Pat chicken dry before cooking to achieve a perfect golden-brown exterior and prevent steaming instead of searing.
• For gluten-free option, verify lemon pepper seasoning ingredients or make your own blend using ground black pepper and lemon zest.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 250 kcal
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 220 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 3 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 29 g
• Cholesterol: 85 mg