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