Lemon Pepper Chicken is a dish that brings together the best of both worlds—the tangy kick of fresh lemons and the spicy warmth of cracked black pepper. If you’ve ever found yourself craving something that’s both simple yet sophisticated, you’re in for a treat! This recipe is not only easy to whip up on a busy weeknight, but it also shines as the star at any gathering you might host. Just envisioning the juicy chicken, coated in a zesty marinade, is enough to make anyone’s mouth water.
As you gather your ingredients and get ready to cook, the best part is that you can truly make it your own. Whether you want to indulge in a cozy family dinner or impress your friends on game night, Lemon Pepper Chicken sets the stage perfectly. Let’s chat about why this recipe works, explore the delightful ingredients, and then dive into the steps for creating this flavorful dish that will surely become a favorite in your household!
Why This Recipe Works
Lemon Pepper Chicken is a delightful dance of flavors, where the zesty brightness of lemon collides beautifully with the warm spice of cracked black pepper. This recipe perfectly balances tanginess with savory depth, resulting in a dish that’s not just a meal but an experience. The marinade tenderizes the chicken, infusing it with mouthwatering flavors that permeate every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Pepper Chicken
This Lemon Pepper Chicken is more than just a recipe; it’s a versatile dish that can either be the star of a cozy family dinner or an impressive centerpiece for gatherings. The simplicity of the ingredients combined with the robust flavors makes for a comforting, yet refined meal that anyone can whip up. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with various sides, making it the perfect go-to for any occasion!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard or Dijon mustard
- 3 cloves garlic, pressed
- 3 teaspoons cracked black pepper
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut in half lengthwise
- Salt, to taste
- 2 shallots or 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon heaped flour
- ½ cup white wine
- ¾ cup chicken stock
- ½ cup black olives (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley, for garnish
For the Lemon Pepper Marinade
Mix the Marinade Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the honey, mustard, pressed garlic, cracked black pepper, and the juice and zest of one lemon. Stir until well blended.
Marinate the Chicken
Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise (or leave whole if using small breasts). Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is generously coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
For the Lemon Pepper Chicken
Sear the Chicken Breasts
Remove the chicken from the marinade, scraping off excess marinade and setting it aside. In a large, deep skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and add them to the pan. Sear until golden, about 2-3 minutes each side but not fully cooked. Transfer the chicken to a plate.
Sauté Shallots and Garlic
In the same skillet, add chopped shallots and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes on low heat until fragrant and softened. This step brings out rich flavors that will enhance the final dish.
Make the Sauce
Sprinkle the flour into the pan, mixing it with the residual oil from the chicken. Pour in the reserved marinade and white wine, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release the browned bits. Cook on high heat until the sauce thickens, approximately 2 minutes. That’s when the aroma will really start to fill your kitchen!
Simmer with Chicken
Reduce the heat to medium and add the chicken stock, then return the chicken breasts to the skillet. If using olives, add them now. Simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and soak up the delicious sauce. The combination of the chicken and sauce is what dreams are made of.
Garnish and Serve
Before serving, sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a fresh touch. Plate the chicken elegantly and savor every bite!
Serving Suggestions
Consider serving this Lemon Pepper Chicken over a bed of lightly buttered noodles, quinoa, or with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal. A crisp green salad or garlic bread can complement the dish beautifully. These additions make for a vibrant table setting that your family or guests will love.
Tips for Success
- For maximum flavor, try to marinate the chicken overnight.
- Use freshly cracked black pepper for a more aromatic spin.
- Ensure to control the heat while simmering to prevent the sauce from burning.
Implementing these tips can elevate your dish, making sure it’s as flavorful as possible.
Variations
Feel free to experiment with different herbs! Adding rosemary or thyme can introduce a delightful earthy element. For a bit of heat, include crushed red pepper flakes for a spicier note. These tweaks might just make this dish your own.
Storage Tips
To store leftovers, place the chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken stock to loosen the sauce if needed. This means you’ll have delicious meals at the ready throughout the week!
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs work wonderfully and will add additional moisture and flavor.
2. What can I substitute for white wine?
Chicken broth or apple cider vinegar can be used as a non-alcoholic alternative.
3. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. A meat thermometer is recommended.
4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish can be made in advance and reheated when ready to serve.
5. What sides pair well with Lemon Pepper Chicken?
Classic options include steamed rice, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad.
Savoring the delicate balance of zesty lemon and spicy pepper is just a recipe away! Your friends and family will rave about this dish, asking for seconds, and you’ll revel in the ease of preparation. In little time, you can create a meal that’s sure to impress, combining simple ingredients into a delightful culinary experience. Embrace your inner chef with this easy-to-follow Lemon Pepper Chicken recipe!
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Lemon Pepper Chicken
This Lemon Pepper Chicken is a flavorful dish featuring a zesty marinade, ideal for both cozy family meals and impressive gatherings. It’s simple yet sophisticated!
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard or Dijon mustard
- 3 cloves garlic, pressed
- 3 teaspoons cracked black pepper
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut in half lengthwise
- Salt, to taste
- 2 shallots or 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon heaped flour
- ½ cup white wine
- ¾ cup chicken stock
- ½ cup black olives (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Mix the marinade ingredients in a bowl.
- Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes.
- Sear marinated chicken in olive oil until golden.
- Sauté shallots and garlic in the same skillet.
- Add flour, reserved marinade, and white wine; cook until thick.
- Add chicken stock and return chicken to skillet; simmer for 20 minutes.
- Garnish with parsley and serve.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
For more flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
Freshly cracked black pepper enhances aroma.
Control heat while simmering to avoid burning the sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sauté
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6
- Sodium: 580
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Unsaturated Fat: 8
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 26
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 32
- Cholesterol: 70
