If you’re craving something tangy, juicy, and full of bright, peppery flavor, Lemon Pepper Chicken is your new go-to dish. It’s the perfect balance of zest and spice — simple enough for a weekday dinner yet impressive enough for guests. Whether you use tender chicken breasts or flavorful thighs, this dish brings sunshine to your plate!
Table of Contents
🧄 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s something magical about the combination of lemon and black pepper. The citrus lifts the flavor, while the pepper adds just the right amount of kick. Add a touch of garlic and a drizzle of honey, and you have a dish that’s savory, tangy, and slightly sweet all at once.
It’s:
- 🕒 Quick – ready in under 25 minutes
- 🍋 Bright and refreshing
- 🍗 Perfect with any side – rice, veggies, or salad
- 🌿 A great meal-prep option for the week
🛒 Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts | 4 pieces | Use whichever you prefer |
| Olive oil or melted butter | 2 tbsp | For searing and flavor |
| Lemon zest | 1 tsp | Adds fresh citrus aroma |
| Lemon juice | 2 tbsp | Brightens up the dish |
| Black pepper | 1 tsp | The star of the show |
| Salt | ½ tsp | Enhances flavor |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp | For depth and warmth |
| Honey (optional) | 1 tsp | Adds a subtle sweetness |
| Fresh thyme or parsley | For garnish | Adds color and freshness |
👩🍳 How to Make Lemon Pepper Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat your chicken dry with a paper towel — this helps it sear beautifully. Season each piece generously with lemon zest, black pepper, salt, and garlic powder. Let it rest for a few minutes while you heat your pan.
Step 2: Sear to Perfection
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Place the chicken in and cook for 5–7 minutes per side, until it’s golden brown and cooked through.
The aroma of lemon and pepper sizzling in the pan? Absolutely irresistible!
Step 3: Add the Zesty Finish
Pour in the lemon juice and drizzle with honey (if you like a hint of sweetness). Spoon the sauce over the chicken as it simmers for another minute — this creates a glossy, tangy glaze.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Top with fresh thyme or parsley for a beautiful finish. Serve hot with fluffy rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp garden salad. Every bite is bursting with lemony goodness!
🍽️ Serving Ideas
- 🥦 Pair with steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus for a balanced meal.
- 🍚 Serve over buttery mashed potatoes or lemon rice for extra zest.
- 🥗 Add to a fresh green salad for a light, protein-packed lunch.
⚖️ Nutrition & Calories
Here’s a quick breakdown of the approximate calorie count per serving (based on 4 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 285 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbohydrates | 4 g |
| Fat | 17 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
💡 Tip: Using olive oil instead of butter makes it slightly lighter, while honey adds a natural sweetness without making it heavy.
🌞 Final Thoughts
Lemon Pepper Chicken isn’t just another chicken recipe — it’s a celebration of flavor! The mix of zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and cracked black pepper creates a dish that feels fresh and comforting all at once.
It’s the perfect reminder that sometimes, the simplest ingredients create the most extraordinary meals.
So go ahead, grab those lemons and your skillet — and let this recipe bring brightness to your table! 🍋✨
For More Recipes Visit : wwww.waniarecipes.com