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Lemon Pepper Chicken Breast

Lemon Pepper Chicken Breast

Lemon Pepper Chicken Breast is a quick, flavorful, and healthy dinner option that combines zesty lemon juice and bold black pepper to create tender, juicy chicken. Perfect for busy weeknights, this simple recipe requires minimal ingredients and offers versatility to suit various tastes and cuisines.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Optional Ingredients

  • Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to help the seasoning stick better and ensure a crispier outer layer when cooking.
  2. Season the Chicken: Generously season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and minced garlic. Then squeeze fresh lemon juice over the pieces for that signature zesty flavor.
  3. Heat the Pan: Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat to create a beautiful sear and lock in the juices of the chicken.
  4. Cook the Chicken Breast: Place the chicken in the skillet without overcrowding the pan. Cook each side for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety and perfect doneness.
  5. Rest and Serve: Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender and flavorful meat.

Notes

  • Always use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled for the brightest flavor.
  • Rest chicken after cooking to keep it moist and tender.
  • Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
  • Preheat the pan well to achieve a perfect golden crust quickly.
  • Season generously with lemon pepper for maximum taste impact.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon pepper chicken, quick chicken recipe, healthy chicken breast, easy dinner, low carb chicken