Lemon Pepper Chicken
Lemon pepper chicken is a zesty and juicy delight that brings together the bright flavors of fresh lemon and the warmth of black pepper. This easy-to-prepare dish is perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. With its vibrant colors and mouthwatering aroma, it’s sure to impress both family and friends. Ready in just about 30 minutes, you’ll savor every bite of this crowd-pleaser while creating lasting memories around the table.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking/Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- 1. Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Add chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- 2. Preheat your oven to 400°F or grill on medium-high heat.
- 3. Prepare for cooking: Remove chicken from marinade and let excess drip off. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or directly onto the grill.
- 4. Cook until golden brown: Bake for 20-25 minutes or grill each side for about 6-7 minutes until golden brown.
- 5. Check for doneness: Ensure an internal temperature of 165°F using a meat thermometer.
- 6. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approximately 6 oz)
- Calories: 248
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 482mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 116mg
Keywords: For an alternative twist, substitute lime juice for lemon. Feel free to add herbs like rosemary or thyme for added flavor depth.