Lemon Pepper Chicken: A Delicious Recipe for Flavorful Weeknight Dinners

Lemon Pepper Chicken is a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table. This recipe combines the zesty brightness of fresh lemons with the aromatic kick of black pepper, creating a harmonious balance that tantalizes the taste buds. Originating from the classic seasoning blend often used in Southern cuisine, Lemon Pepper Chicken has become a beloved favorite across various cultures, celebrated for its simplicity and deliciousness.

What I love most about Lemon Pepper Chicken is its versatility; it can be grilled, baked, or sautéed, making it a convenient option for any weeknight meal or special occasion. The tender, juicy chicken paired with the vibrant lemony notes and peppery finish creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare. Whether served with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, Lemon Pepper Chicken is sure to impress your family and friends, making it a staple in my kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best)
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh if you have it)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Preparing the Marinade

1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, black pepper, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and paprika. Whisk everything together until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and fragrant, with a bright lemony aroma. 2. Taste the marinade and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a stronger lemon flavor, feel free to add a bit more lemon juice or zest. 3. Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. 4. Refrigerate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but ideally for 2 to 4 hours. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, making it juicy and flavorful. If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes will make a difference!

Cooking the Chicken

5. Preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat. If you’re using an oven, preheat it to 400°F (200°C). 6. Once the grill is hot, remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Discard the leftover marinade, as it has come into contact with raw chicken. 7. If grilling, place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on one side. You should see nice grill marks forming. 8. Flip the chicken breasts over and cook for an additional 6-7 minutes on the other side. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. If you’re using a stovetop grill pan, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly based on the thickness of your chicken. 9. If baking, place the marinated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). 10. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill or oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each bite is tender and juicy.

Assembling the Dish

11. While the chicken is resting, prepare your serving platter. You can serve the chicken alongside a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or even some fluffy rice or quinoa. 12. Slice the chicken breasts into strips or serve them whole, depending on your preference. Arrange the chicken on the platter, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. 13. Serve with lemon wedges on the side. Squeezing a bit of fresh lemon juice over the chicken just before eating enhances the flavor even more.

Serving Suggestions

14. This Lemon Pepper Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas: – **Garlic Mashed Potatoes**: Creamy and buttery, they complement the zesty chicken perfectly. – **Steamed Asparagus**: A light and healthy side that adds a nice crunch. – **Quinoa Salad**: Tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing touch. – **Grilled Vegetables**: Bell peppers, zucchini, and onions drizzled with olive oil and grilled until tender. 15. For a complete meal, consider adding a light dessert. A lemon sorbet or a fruit salad can be a refreshing way to end the meal, keeping with the lemon theme.

Storing Leftovers

16. If you have any leftovers, store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. 17. To reheat, you can use the microwave, but for the best texture, I recommend reheating in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to keep it moist. 18. You can also slice the leftover chicken and toss

Conclusion:

In summary, this Lemon Pepper Chicken recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners with a burst of flavor and simplicity. The zesty lemon and aromatic pepper create a delightful balance that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also makes your kitchen smell heavenly. Whether you serve it alongside a fresh garden salad, fluffy rice, or roasted vegetables, this dish is versatile enough to complement any side you choose. For those looking to mix things up, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an extra layer of flavor, or even a dash of garlic powder for a savory twist. You could also try marinating the chicken overnight for an even more intense flavor profile. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this Lemon Pepper Chicken a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed! Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your delicious creation. Let’s spread the love for this fantastic recipe together! Happy cooking!

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