If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bright, zesty flavors while staying delightfully simple, this Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe is going to be your new best friend in the kitchen. Tender chicken breasts marinated in a vibrant blend of lemon juice, peppery seasoning, and savory Worcestershire sauce come together to create an irresistible meal. It’s a perfect way to elevate an everyday ingredient with fresh, bold tastes that everyone will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a starring role, bringing balance, freshness, and flavor to the dish without overwhelming your palate.
- ½ cup olive oil: Adds moisture and helps infuse the marinade evenly.
- 1 cup lemon juice: Provides that unmistakable citrusy brightness essential to the recipe.
- 2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Delivers a subtle depth with its tangy and savory notes.
- 2 Tbsp lemon pepper seasoning: Packs a zesty punch combining citrus and spice for that signature flavor.
- 1 tsp minced garlic: Lends an aromatic earthiness that complements the lemon perfectly.
- ½ tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the tang of the lemon juice.
- 6 boneless skinless chicken breasts: The tender, lean protein that soaks up all the vibrant flavors beautifully.
How to Make Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by whisking together olive oil, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, lemon pepper seasoning, minced garlic, and salt in a bowl. This marinade is the magic potion that infuses the chicken with layers of bright, savory flavors.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or resealable bag, and pour the marinade over them. Seal and ensure each piece is coated generously. Refrigerate for at least one hour to let all those delicious flavors soak in deeply.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Grill for 15 to 18 minutes, turning as needed, until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside. The grilling adds a wonderful smoky char that elevates the lemon pepper seasoning beautifully.
How to Serve Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley or cilantro sprinkled atop the grilled chicken adds a vibrant green pop and fresh herbal note. Thin lemon slices or wedges on the side not only brighten up the plate visually but also invite you to add an extra burst of citrus as you eat.
Side Dishes
Pair this Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe with light, fresh sides to keep the meal bright and balanced. Think garlic roasted asparagus, a crisp garden salad, or fluffy couscous to soak up the juices. Creamy mashed potatoes or wild rice make comforting accompaniments for those seeking heartier options.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the grilled chicken and layer it on toasted ciabatta bread with arugula and a smear of aioli for a gourmet sandwich. Alternatively, dice it up and toss it into a vibrant salad bowl packed with crisp veggies and a tangy vinaigrette. Either way, the lemon pepper notes will shine through in delightful new ways.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover lemon pepper chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay delicious for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners during a busy week.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, wrap the grilled chicken tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or store it in a freezer-safe container. It freezes well for up to 2 months without losing flavor, so you can enjoy the Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe even on days when you don’t feel like cooking.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave it covered to prevent it from drying out. Adding a splash of water or chicken broth helps keep it moist. The vibrant lemon and pepper flavors remain wonderfully intact after reheating.
FAQs
Can I use lemon pepper chicken recipe for other cuts of chicken?
Absolutely! This marinade works beautifully with thighs, drumsticks, or even chicken tenders. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the chicken is cooked through but still juicy.
Is it necessary to marinate the chicken for an hour?
While marinating for an hour lets the flavors penetrate deeply, if you’re short on time, even 20-30 minutes will impart nice citrusy and peppery notes to the chicken.
Can I cook the Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe in the oven?
Yes, roasting the marinated chicken at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until fully cooked, works well if grilling isn’t an option.
How spicy is this Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe?
It has a mild kick from the black pepper in the lemon pepper seasoning but isn’t overly spicy. You can always adjust the amount of seasoning to suit your heat preference.
Can I make the marinade in advance?
Definitely! Mixing the marinade a few hours ahead or even the day before helps blend the flavors better. Just store it refrigerated until you’re ready to use.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe perfectly balances bright citrus and savory spices, making it a versatile and crowd-pleasing meal. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, it’s a delicious way to bring fresh flavor to your table with minimal fuss. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover just how wonderfully simple and tasty lemon pepper chicken can be!
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Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 23 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Lemon Pepper Chicken recipe features tender boneless skinless chicken breasts marinated in a zesty blend of olive oil, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, lemon pepper seasoning, garlic, and salt. Grilled to perfection, it offers a bright and savory flavor that’s perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Marinade Ingredients
- ½ cup olive oil
- 1 cup lemon juice
- 2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 Tbsp lemon pepper seasoning
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- ½ tsp salt
Main Ingredients
- 6 boneless skinless chicken breasts
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, lemon pepper seasoning, minced garlic, and salt until well combined to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the chicken: Place the boneless skinless chicken breasts in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated evenly. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour to allow the flavors to infuse the meat.
- Preheat the grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat, preparing it for cooking the chicken breasts.
- Grill the chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place the breasts on the preheated grill. Cook for 15 to 18 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink in the center and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve and enjoy: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving to retain its juices and flavor.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken for at least 1 hour helps tenderize the meat and enhances the lemon pepper flavor.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can also cook the chicken on a grill pan or stovetop skillet over medium-high heat.
- Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- For an extra citrusy kick, garnish with fresh lemon slices before serving.
- This recipe pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh green salad.
