Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Lemon Pepper Chicken

Lemon Pepper Chicken

Lemon Pepper Chicken is a vibrant and easy-to-make dish that combines the bright tanginess of fresh lemon juice with the bold, spicy kick of cracked black pepper. Juicy and tender chicken breasts or thighs are marinated and cooked to perfection, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With quick preparation and versatile serving options, this crowd-pleaser is a family favorite that pairs well with a variety of sides.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 chicken breasts or thighs (bone-in or boneless)

Marinade and Seasoning

  • 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper, plus extra for seasoning
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Optional Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy finish, then season generously with salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and minced garlic on both sides.
  2. Make the Lemon Pepper Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together freshly squeezed lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, and additional cracked black pepper to create a flavorful marinade.
  3. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken in a shallow dish or ziplock bag and pour the marinade over it, ensuring every piece is well coated. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  4. Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side depending on thickness, basting with leftover marinade as it cooks. Alternatively, you can bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, basting halfway through.
  5. Finish and Garnish: Remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top to add a burst of color and fresh aroma right before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled for the best citrus flavor.
  • Let the chicken rest after cooking to keep it juicy.
  • Crack black pepper fresh for the most flavorful seasoning.
  • Use a cast iron skillet for an evenly cooked golden crust.
  • Marinate for up to 2 hours for deeper flavor infusion.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Pan-frying or Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast or thigh
  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 300 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 2 g
  • Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Protein: 32 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg

Keywords: Lemon Pepper Chicken, easy chicken recipe, quick chicken dinner, gluten free chicken, zesty chicken, family dinner, weeknight meal