Easy Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe – Flavorful & Juicy Delight

Name: Easy Lemon Pepper Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice; 2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt to taste

By Jana Vergara

September 13, 2025

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Lemon Pepper Chicken is the culinary equivalent of a warm hug on a rainy day. Imagine biting into tender, juicy chicken infused with zesty lemon and aromatic black pepper that dances on your taste buds. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, wrapping you in a deliciously fragrant embrace that promises flavor and comfort in every bite.

While I was attempting to recreate my grandmother’s famous lemon pepper chicken, I discovered that cooking is like riding a bike: occasionally wobbly but ultimately rewarding. This dish is perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself on a quiet night in. It’s quick, easy, and bursting with flavors that will make you feel like a gourmet chef – even if your biggest cooking achievement until now has been microwaving leftover pizza.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Easy Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe brings bold flavors without demanding too much time or effort
Each bite offers a juicy explosion of citrusy goodness
Visually appealing with its golden-brown color, it can easily become the star of any dinner table
Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s versatile enough to pair with various sides

Ingredients for Easy Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor; they add a nice kick to the overall profile.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the dish; bottled lemon juice just doesn’t cut it.
Black Pepper: Use freshly cracked black pepper for maximum flavor; it’s worth the extra effort.
Olive Oil: A good quality olive oil enhances richness and helps in marinating the chicken perfectly.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Easy Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe

How to Make Easy Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it warms up, grab a baking dish and lightly spray it with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Prepare Your Chicken

Season your boneless chicken breasts generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper on both sides. Don’t be shy; this is where the magic begins!

Step 3: Whisk Up That Marinade

In a bowl, combine fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and olive oil. Stir until mixed well. This marinade is like sunshine on a plate!

Step 4: Marinate

Place your seasoned chicken breasts in the baking dish and pour the marinade over them. Let those flavors mingle for at least 15 minutes – go ahead and dance around while you wait.

Step 5: Bake It

Bake the chicken in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C). Your kitchen should smell heavenly by now!

Step 6: Serve and Savor

Transfer to plates and drizzle some of that aromatic marinade over each piece for the perfect finishing touch. Pair it with roasted vegetables or rice for a complete meal.

And there you have it! Easy Lemon Pepper Chicken that’s not only simple but also incredibly delicious! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

You Must Know

This amazing easy lemon pepper chicken recipe offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze
You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand
The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table
Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first to lock in that juicy goodness, then whip up some sides while it’s cooking away. This way, everything comes together hot and fresh, ready to impress your dinner guests or, you know, just yourself.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to get creative with this easy lemon pepper chicken recipe! Swap out lemon for lime if you’re feeling zesty, or add garlic powder for an extra punch. Toss in some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate those flavors even more.

Storing & Reheating

To keep your easy lemon pepper chicken recipe fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep it moist and tender.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use room temperature chicken to ensure even cooking and avoid dryness
Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor absorption
Always let the chicken rest after cooking; this keeps it juicy and tender

I remember the first time I made this easy lemon pepper chicken recipe for my family. They were raving about it, and I felt like a culinary rock star! It turned out so well that even my picky eater cousin went back for seconds!

FAQs :

What is the cooking time for the Easy Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe?

The cooking time for the Easy Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe typically takes about 25 to 30 minutes. This includes preparing the chicken, marinating it with lemon and pepper, and then cooking it in a skillet or oven. If you choose to grill, the time may vary slightly. Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.

Can I use skinless chicken for this Easy Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe?

Yes, you can absolutely use skinless chicken for the Easy Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe. Skinless chicken breasts will absorb the lemon and pepper flavors well, creating a lighter dish. Just be mindful of cooking times, as skinless pieces may require slightly less time to cook through compared to their skin-on counterparts.

How can I customize the Easy Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe?

You can easily customize the Easy Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe by adding additional herbs or spices. Consider incorporating garlic powder, rosemary, or thyme for extra flavor. You might also substitute lemon juice with lime juice for a different citrus twist. Feel free to experiment with vegetables on the side for a complete meal!

What should I serve with Easy Lemon Pepper Chicken?

Easy Lemon Pepper Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a healthy option, serve it alongside steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. If you crave something heartier, consider pairing it with rice or roasted potatoes. The tangy flavor of the chicken complements many dishes beautifully.

Conclusion for Easy Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe :

In summary, the Easy Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for any weeknight dinner. With simple ingredients like chicken, lemon juice, and black pepper, it offers bright flavors that are sure to please your palate. Customization options allow you to adjust it according to your preferences while maintaining its delicious essence. Enjoy this dish with your choice of sides for a satisfying meal that everyone will love!

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