Lemon Pepper Chicken: A Flavorful and Easy Weeknight Dinner

If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious chicken recipe that’s bursting with bright, zesty flavors, this Lemon Pepper Chicken is the perfect choice. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a meal that’s packed with flavor and perfect for any night of the week. The combination of lemon, pepper, and a hint of cayenne creates a savory, tangy dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides.

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste (omit if your lemon pepper seasoning contains salt)
• 4 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 2-2 ½ pounds total)
• 1 lemon, sliced into rounds
• 2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning
• ¼ cup butter, softened
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper, more or less to taste
• Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect for baking the chicken evenly while keeping it moist and tender.

2. Prepare the Baking Dish

Layer the lemon rounds in the bottom of a baking dish. These lemon slices will infuse the chicken with a subtle citrus flavor as it bakes, making every bite juicy and flavorful.

3. Season the Chicken

Sprinkle salt on the bottom of each chicken breast. Flip the chicken breasts over and place the salted side down on top of the lemon slices in the baking dish. This ensures the chicken absorbs the lemon flavor as it cooks.

4. Make the Lemon Pepper Butter

In a small bowl, mix together the lemon pepper seasoning, softened butter, salt (if using), and cayenne pepper until well combined. This butter mixture will add a rich, zesty flavor to the chicken.

5. Coat the Chicken

Rub the butter mixture all over the chicken breasts. If you’re using chicken thighs, you can also place some of the butter mixture under the skin for extra flavor. The butter helps to keep the chicken moist while baking and gives it a beautiful golden finish.

6. Bake the Chicken

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the chicken for 25 to 28 minutes if using boneless chicken breasts, or 35 to 40 minutes if using bone-in chicken thighs. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 161°F (72°C). Baste the chicken with the melted butter drippings halfway through the cooking time to enhance the flavor and moisture.

7. Rest the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. During this time, the internal temperature should rise to 165°F (74°C), which ensures the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.

8. Serve

Portion the chicken onto serving plates. Drizzle with additional melted lemon-pepper butter from the baking dish for extra flavor. If desired, sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh, colorful garnish. Serve this flavorful chicken with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

Serving Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25-28 minutes
• Total Time: 35-38 minutes
• Calories: 310 kcal per serving
• Servings: 4 servings

Tips for Perfect Lemon Pepper Chicken

• Use Fresh Lemon: Fresh lemon slices add a vibrant citrus flavor that pairs perfectly with the savory lemon pepper seasoning. Avoid using bottled lemon juice as it may not provide the same fresh taste.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the butter mixture. For a milder version, reduce or omit the cayenne.
• Pair with Light Sides: This chicken dish pairs well with light and fresh sides like steamed vegetables, a simple green salad, or a quinoa pilaf.

Conclusion

This Lemon Pepper Chicken is a quick, easy, and delicious recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. With its zesty lemon flavor, savory spices, and buttery richness, it’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting guests, this dish is a surefire way to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

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