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Lemon Pepper Chicken

Lemon Pepper Chicken
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Juicy and flavorful Lemon Pepper Chicken made quickly with fresh lemon juice, zest, and freshly cracked black pepper. This simple, versatile dish is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, combining bright citrus notes with bold peppery spice for a tender, satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Marinade

  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Garnish (Optional)

  • Chopped fresh parsley or thyme leaves
  • Lemon wedges

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure better browning. Season both sides generously with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and lemon zest to build the essential flavor base.
  2. Marinate for Extra Flavor: In a bowl, combine lemon juice, minced garlic, and olive oil. Coat the chicken breasts with this marinade and let them sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the bright, zesty notes to penetrate the meat, adding moisture and depth.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the marinated chicken breasts in the pan. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes on each side until golden brown on the outside and cooked through inside. Avoid moving the chicken too much to get a beautiful crust.
  4. Finish with Lemon and Pepper: Once cooked, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken and sprinkle with an additional crack of black pepper for a fresh burst of flavor just before serving.
  5. Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and tender. Garnish with chopped herbs if desired, then plate and enjoy!

Notes

  • Use freshly ground black pepper just before cooking for a stronger, more vibrant flavor.
  • Do not overcook the chicken; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to keep it juicy.
  • Marinate the chicken for 15 to 30 minutes to infuse flavor without breaking down the texture.
  • Pat the chicken dry before cooking for a golden, crispy exterior.
  • Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to retain its juices.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon pepper chicken, quick chicken recipe, easy dinner, gluten free chicken, pan-fried chicken, lemon chicken

Find it online: https://eazyum.com/lemon-pepper-chicken/