Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken cutlets with a zesty lemon cream sauce. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or an elegant gathering with friends. The bright flavors of citrus and garlic in this creamy sauce elevate the chicken, making it a standout meal that everyone will love.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken
• For the Sauce
• For Garnish
• How to Make Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken
• Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
• Step 2: Cook the Chicken
• Step 3: Make the Sauce Base
• Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
• Step 5: Create Creamy Mixture
• Step 6: Add Flavors
• Step 7: Combine Chicken with Sauce
• Step 8: Serve
• How to Serve Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken
• With Pasta
• With Rice
• With Vegetables
• With Salad
• How to Perfect Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken
• Best Side Dishes for Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken
• Reheating Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken?
• How do I make Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken gluten-free?
• Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
• What sides pair well with Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken?
• How spicy is Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
• One-Pan Wonder: With everything cooked in one skillet, cleanup is a breeze, allowing you to enjoy your dinner without the hassle.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of lemon, garlic, and pepper creates a rich and tangy flavor that enhances the chicken beautifully.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, pasta, or alongside roasted vegetables to complement the creamy sauce.
• Impressive Presentation: Garnished with fresh herbs and lemon slices, this dish looks as good as it tastes—perfect for impressing your guests.

Tools and Preparation

To make Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken effortlessly, you’ll need a few essential tools. These will help ensure you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cooking tongs
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Provides enough space to cook the chicken evenly while allowing room for the sauce.
• Cooking tongs: Ideal for flipping the chicken cutlets without breaking them apart.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accurate measurements for ingredients like broth and lemon juice for consistent results.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 large chicken breasts (about 2 pounds total), sliced in half lengthwise to create 4 thin chicken cutlets
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Coarsely ground pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 small shallot, minced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup half and half
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (from 1-2 lemons)
• 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning

For Garnish

• Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
• Lemon slices, for garnish

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How to Make Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken cutlets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with kosher salt and coarsely ground pepper. Avoid adding lemon pepper seasoning at this stage to prevent burning during browning.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken cutlets and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until their internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If needed, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding. Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce Base

Reduce heat to medium-low and add butter to the skillet. Once melted, sauté minced shallot for 1-2 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

Sprinkle flour into the pan while stirring constantly for about 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. Pour in chicken broth while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

Step 5: Create Creamy Mixture

Stir in half and half while whisking until smooth. Bring to a boil before reducing heat to let it simmer until slightly thickened.

Step 6: Add Flavors

Stir in fresh lemon juice and lemon pepper seasoning. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 7: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Return cooked chicken along with any juices back into the skillet. Nestle cutlets into sauce while adding lemon slices to heat through.

Step 8: Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley or basil. Sprinkle additional lemon pepper seasoning if desired. Serve warm for an unforgettable meal!

How to Serve Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken is versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides to enhance its flavors. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

With Pasta

• Linguine or Fettuccine: Toss the pasta with the creamy sauce for a delightful, rich dish.
• Pesto Pasta: The fresh basil notes in pesto complement the lemon pepper beautifully.

With Rice

• White or Brown Rice: Serve over fluffy rice to soak up the creamy lemon sauce.
• Lemon Rice: Cook rice with lemon zest and juice for an extra citrus kick.

With Vegetables

• Roasted Asparagus: The crispiness of roasted asparagus pairs well with the creamy chicken.
• Steamed Broccoli: A healthy option that balances the richness of the dish.

With Salad

• Caesar Salad: The crunchy romaine and creamy dressing contrast nicely with the chicken.
• Mixed Greens: Drizzle with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing side.

How to Perfect Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

To achieve perfect Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken, follow these tips for optimal results.

• Use Thin Cutlets: Thin chicken cutlets ensure even cooking and reduce preparation time.
• Season Properly: Season both sides of the chicken before cooking for better flavor absorption.
• Don’t Rush Browning: Allow enough time for browning to develop deep flavors before adding other ingredients.
• Control Heat Levels: Adjust the heat as needed while cooking to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning during cooking for a balanced flavor profile.
• Let it Rest: Allow cooked chicken to rest before slicing, which helps retain moisture.

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Best Side Dishes for Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides that complement its flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce; simply butter and bake until golden.
2. Quinoa Salad: A hearty yet healthy option; mix quinoa with vegetables and a light dressing.
3. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes enhance the overall comfort of the meal.
4. Zucchini Noodles: A low-carb alternative that adds freshness and crunch; sauté lightly before serving.
5. Coleslaw: A refreshing contrast; the crunchiness adds texture to your meal.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the tanginess of lemon in a delightful way.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can affect the final dish. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

• Ignoring Chicken Thickness: Using thick chicken breasts can result in uneven cooking. Always slice chicken breasts into thin cutlets for consistent doneness.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Adding too many chicken cutlets at once can cause steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches for better results.
• Skipping Seasoning: Failing to season the chicken properly before cooking can lead to bland flavors. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
• Adding Lemon Too Early: Including lemon juice too soon can prevent it from shining through in the sauce. Add it towards the end of cooking for maximum flavor.
• Not Scraping the Pan: Neglecting to scrape up browned bits can result in a less flavorful sauce. Always deglaze the pan after cooking the chicken.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

• Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It is best consumed within 2 months for optimal taste and texture.

Reheating Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe dish. Stir occasionally until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to prevent drying out.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken?

Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken is a simple yet elegant dish made with tender chicken cutlets simmered in a lemon cream sauce, perfect for any occasion.

How do I make Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for thickening the sauce.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Using chicken thighs will give you a richer flavor and they stay juicy during cooking, making them an excellent alternative for this recipe.

What sides pair well with Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables that can soak up the creamy lemon sauce.

How spicy is Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken?

The spiciness comes from coarsely ground pepper. You can adjust the amount according to your preference if you like it milder or spicier.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken is a delightful recipe that balances rich flavors with bright citrus notes. It’s versatile enough for both quick weeknight dinners and special occasions. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping proteins based on what you have on hand. Enjoy this delicious meal!

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