Lemon Pepper Chicken

Bright and Flavorful Lemon Pepper Chicken

Step into a world of zesty delight with our Lemon Pepper Chicken! In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a dish that’s a delightful mix of sharp lemon tang and a spicy pepper kick, sure to become a family favorite in no time! Lemon pepper chicken served in a dish garnished with parsley. Step into a world of zesty delight with our Lemon Pepper Chicken!

I’ve made it my goal this year to simplify our family meal–prep. This crispy lemon pepper chicken is just that—simple but delicious! Crispy lemon pepper chicken has been a favorite of ours for a little over a year now. It’s something my kids are always asking me to make, and they devour every last bite. We’re all a little obsessed with the crispy breading, tender inside, and flavor all around. This crispy lemon pepper chicken is flavorful without being overly peppery. It has an amazing lemon flavor but is not sweet.

Why I Love This Crispy Lemon Pepper Chicken

➸ It only takes 30 minutes to whip up this delicious and tangy chicken.
➸ Zesty lemon flavor offers a refreshing twist to traditional chicken dishes.
➸ An easy and quick recipe, ideal for busy weeknight dinners.

Variations and Options

➸ Choosing Your Chicken – Go with boneless skinless chicken breasts for a lean, mild flavor, or chicken thighs for a juicier, richer option. Breasts soak up seasoning, while thighs bring more flavor and moisture.

➸ Garnish Options – Sprinkle fresh parsley or cilantro for color, lemon slices for brightness, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.

Lemon Pepper Chicken FAQs

Q: How can I incorporate vegetables into this dish?
A: Sauté your choice of vegetables like asparagus, green beans, broccoli, or bell peppers in the same skillet after cooking the chicken.

Q: Can I add chicken broth to the skillet when cooking my Lemon Pepper Chicken?
A: Yes, adding a small amount during the cooking process can help keep the chicken moist and tender, and introduce an additional layer of flavor.

Q: What are some delicious side dishes that I can serve with this dish?
A: Some great side dish options include rice pilaf, scalloped potatoes, oven roasted vegetables, or a delicious garden salad.

Ingredients

For the Lemon Oil:
3 tbsp olive oil
zest of 3 lemons
For the Breading:
½ cup all purpose flour
¼ cup panko bread crumbs
2½ tsp ground black pepper
2 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp salt
½ tsp dried parsley
¼ tsp paprika
For the Chicken:
4 chicken breast cutlets, or 2 breasts cut in half
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 lemon, cut into ¼ inch thick slices

Instructions

In a small bowl or square dish, combine the olive oil and lemon zest. Set aside.
In another small bowl or rectangular dish, combine the flour, bread crumbs, pepper, garlic powder, salt, parsley, and paprika. Set aside.
Set a large deep skillet over medium heat and add the remaining olive oil.
Take each chicken cutlet and dip both sides in the olive oil mixture, then in the breading. Place onto a plate or piece of aluminum foil. Repeat with the remaining cutlets.

Place the cutlets into the pan and cook on one side for 5-6 minutes before flipping. Continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes. Next, place the lemon slices in the pan and continue cooking until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit (71 degrees Celsius).
Remove from the skillet and place on a cooling rack. Let rest for 2-3 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!

Notes

➸ The chicken must be thin to be cooked thoroughly in a timely manner. If the chicken is not thin enough, the breading will begin to burn.
➸ Do not add the lemon slices until the last 5 minutes of cooking time, or they will end up burnt as well. Timing is everything!
➸ For crisp chicken, serve immediately.

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