Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe

This Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe is a delightful blend of zesty flavors and crispy textures, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this dish stands out with its bright lemon flavor and bold peppery notes. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a quick option for busy families looking for something delicious and satisfying.

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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 Garnish
• How to Make Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe
• Step 1: Prepare the Lemon Oil
• Step 2: Create the Breading Mixture
• Step 3: Heat Your Skillet
• Step 4: Coat the Chicken Cutlets
• Step 5: Cook the Chicken Cutlets
• Step 6: Add Lemon Slices
• Step 7: Check Doneness
• How to Serve Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe
• With Fresh Salads
• Over Rice or Grains
• With Roasted Vegetables
• How to Perfect Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe
• Best Side Dishes for Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe
• Reheating Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I make Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe gluten-free?
• Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
• What should I serve with Lemon Pepper Chicken?
• How can I customize this Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe?
• Can I prepare the seasoning ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners when time is short.
• Flavorful: The combination of lemon and black pepper creates a vibrant taste that elevates simple chicken cutlets to gourmet status.
• Versatile Pairing: Serve with vegetables, salad, or rice for a complete meal that suits any palate.
• Crispy Texture: The panko bread crumbs ensure each cutlet is perfectly crispy, delivering satisfying crunch in every bite.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the delicious flavors, making it a hit at the dinner table.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Lemon Pepper Chicken, gather the necessary tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large deep skillet
• Shallow bowls or dishes
• Cooling rack
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Large deep skillet: Ensures even cooking and allows enough space for all the chicken cutlets to fry properly.
• Shallow bowls or dishes: Perfect for coating the chicken, making it easier to dip and dredge without mess.
• Cooling rack: Helps maintain the crispiness of the chicken after frying by allowing air circulation.
• Tongs: Ideal for flipping the chicken cutlets safely in the hot skillet without losing the breading.

Ingredients

For the Lemon Oil
* 3 tablespoons olive oil
* Zest of 3 lemons

For the Breading
* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
* 1/4 cup panko bread crumbs
* 2 1/2 teaspoons ground black pepper
* 2 teaspoons garlic powder
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
* 1/4 teaspoon paprika

For the Chicken
* 4 chicken breast cutlets (or 2 chicken breasts sliced in half lengthwise)
* 3 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 lemon, cut into 1/4-inch thick slices

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Lemon Oil

In a small bowl or shallow dish, combine 3 tablespoons of olive oil with the zest of 3 lemons. Set this mixture aside as it will add bright flavor to your chicken.

Step 2: Create the Breading Mixture

In another bowl or dish, mix together:
1. 1/2 cup all-purpose flour,
2. 1/4 cup panko bread crumbs,
3. 2 1/2 teaspoons ground black pepper,
4. 2 teaspoons garlic powder,
5. 1 teaspoon salt,
6. 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley,
7. 1/4 teaspoon paprika.

Make sure everything is well combined before moving on.

Step 3: Heat Your Skillet

Heat a large deep skillet over medium heat and add the remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Allow it to heat up until shimmering but not smoking.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken Cutlets

Dip each chicken cutlet into the lemon oil mixture, coating both sides thoroughly. Then dredge them in the breading mixture for an even coating. Place each breaded cutlet onto a plate or piece of aluminum foil while you repeat with all cutlets.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken Cutlets

Carefully place the coated chicken cutlets into your preheated skillet. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on one side until golden brown. Flip each cutlet and cook for another 5 minutes until fully cooked through.

Step 6: Add Lemon Slices

During the last few minutes of cooking, add lemon slices to the pan to caramelize lightly—this adds an extra layer of flavor!

Step 7: Check Doneness

Ensure that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Once done, remove from heat and place on a cooling rack. Allow them to rest for about 2-3 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your delicious Lemon Pepper Chicken!

How to Serve Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe

Lemon Pepper Chicken is versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you prefer a light meal or a hearty feast, this dish pairs well with many sides that complement its zesty flavors.

With Fresh Salads

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing and croutons enhances the chicken’s flavor.
• Greek Salad: A mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese adds a refreshing contrast.
• Quinoa Salad: Nutty quinoa mixed with vegetables provides a healthy and filling accompaniment.

Over Rice or Grains

• Cilantro Lime Rice: Fragrant rice infused with lime and cilantro pairs perfectly with the citrusy chicken.
• Wild Rice Pilaf: Earthy wild rice adds texture and flavor that complements the crispy cutlets.
• Freekeh: This ancient grain offers a smoky taste that works well with lemon pepper seasoning.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Asparagus: Roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil enhances the dish’s freshness.
• Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts add crunch and a hint of sweetness when roasted.

How to Perfect Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe

To achieve the best results with your Lemon Pepper Chicken, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Thin Cutlets: Ensure your chicken cutlets are about 1/2 inch thick for even cooking. Thinner cutlets cook more quickly and evenly.
• Coat Evenly: When breading, make sure to coat each piece thoroughly for maximum crispiness. This helps create that desired crunchy exterior.
• Heat Your Oil Properly: Allow the skillet to reach medium heat before adding the chicken. This prevents sticking and helps achieve golden-brown cutlets.
• Add Lemon Slices at the Right Time: Only include lemon slices during the last 5 minutes of cooking to enhance flavor without burning them.
• Rest Before Serving: Letting the chicken rest for 2-3 minutes after cooking allows juices to redistribute, keeping it moist.
• Store Leftovers Correctly: To maintain crispiness, store leftovers loosely covered with foil instead of in airtight containers.

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Best Side Dishes for Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe

Serving Lemon Pepper Chicken with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting bed for the chicken.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a nutritious contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, balancing out the savory elements of the chicken.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings a burst of sweetness that pairs nicely with lemon pepper seasoning.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements the zesty chicken perfectly while adding color to your plate.
6. Mixed Vegetable Stir-Fry: A colorful mix of stir-fried veggies provides freshness and texture alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can lead to a perfect Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using thick cutlets: Thick chicken cutlets can cook unevenly. Ensure your cutlets are about 1/2 inch thick for even cooking.
• Overbreading: Applying too much breading can make the dish heavy. Aim for a light, even coating to keep it crispy.
• Skipping the lemon oil: The lemon oil adds essential flavor. Don’t skip this step; it’s crucial for that zesty taste.
• Cooking at high heat: High heat may burn the breading before the chicken cooks through. Stick to medium heat for a perfectly cooked cutlet.
• Not resting the chicken: Allowing the chicken to rest helps retain its juices. Don’t skip this step; let it rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Lemon Pepper Chicken in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe

• Freeze cooked chicken cutlets in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container or freezer bag.
• They will last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (204°C) and bake covered with foil for about 20 minutes, which helps retain crispness.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, but this may result in softer breading.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, ensuring not to burn the crust.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs will work well and provide a juicier texture, just adjust cooking time accordingly.

What should I serve with Lemon Pepper Chicken?

This dish pairs well with rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

How can I customize this Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe?

Feel free to add herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor! You can also experiment with different types of breadcrumbs.

Can I prepare the seasoning ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can mix the breading ingredients and store them in advance for quicker preparation during cooking.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe is not only quick but also bursting with flavor, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights. Its versatility allows you to pair it with various sides or customize it according to your taste preferences. Give it a try, and enjoy a delightful meal your family will love!

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