Introduction
Lemon Pepper Chicken is a flavorful and zesty dish that combines the tanginess of lemon with the boldness of black pepper. This dish is a favorite among many households due to its simplicity and delicious taste. Whether you are cooking for a family dinner or hosting a gathering, lemon pepper chicken is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. In this article, we will explore the ingredients needed, the step-by-step cooking process, various delicious variations, helpful tips, and finally, answer some frequently asked questions about this delectable dish.
Ingredients
To make lemon pepper chicken, you will need the following ingredients:
1. 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2. 2 tablespoons of olive oil
3. 2 tablespoons of lemon zest
4. 1 tablespoon of freshly ground black pepper
5. 1 teaspoon of salt
6. 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
7. 1 teaspoon of onion powder
8. 1/2 cup of chicken broth
Steps
1. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the lemon zest, black pepper, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Rub the spice mixture evenly over each chicken breast.
4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
6. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and pour chicken broth over the chicken.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Variations
While the classic lemon pepper chicken recipe is delicious on its own, you can always add your twist to it:
1. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
2. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or cilantro on top for a pop of color and freshness.
3. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the spice mixture.
4. Serve the lemon pepper chicken over a bed of mixed greens for a healthy and light meal.
Tips
1. Make sure to pat the chicken breasts dry before seasoning them to ensure a crispy outer layer.
2. Adjust the amount of black pepper according to your spice preference.
3. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
4. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
Conclusion
Lemon Pepper Chicken is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it baked, grilled, or pan-seared, this recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a delicious lemon pepper chicken meal in no time. Get creative with your variations and enjoy this classic dish with your family and friends!
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly as thighs may require a bit longer to cook through.
Q: Can I marinate the chicken in the spice mixture before cooking?
A: Absolutely! Marinating the chicken for a few hours or overnight will enhance the flavors even more.
Q: Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
A: Yes, you can opt for skinless chicken and bake or grill the chicken instead of pan-searing it to reduce the oil content.
lemon Pepper Chicken
Lemon Pepper Chicken is a flavorful and zesty dish that combines the tanginess of lemon with the boldness of black pepper. This versatile dish can be enjoyed baked, grilled, or pan-seared, offering a delightful combination of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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2 tablespoons lemon zest
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1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
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1 teaspoon salt
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1/2 cup chicken broth
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Mix lemon zest, black pepper, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder in a bowl.
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Rub the spice mixture over each chicken breast.
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Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear the chicken breasts until golden brown.
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Transfer chicken to a baking dish, pour chicken broth over the chicken.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
