Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe

This Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe is a delightful and zesty dish that brings the perfect balance of flavors to your table. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress. With its crispy breading and bright lemon notes, it’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs wonderfully with salads, rice, or roasted vegetables.

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Lemon Oil
• For the Breading
• For the Chicken
• For Garnish
• How to Make Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe
• Step 1: Prepare Lemon Oil
• Step 2: Make the Breading Mixture
• Step 3: Heat the Skillet
• Step 4: Coat the Chicken Cutlets
• Step 5: Cook the Chicken
• Step 6: Add Lemon Slices
• Step 7: Check Doneness
• Step 8: Rest Before Serving
• How to Serve Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe
• With Fresh Vegetables
• On a Bed of Greens
• With Rice Dishes
• How to Perfect Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe
• Best Side Dishes for Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe
• Reheating Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is a Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe?
• Can I customize my Lemon Pepper Chicken?
• How do I ensure my chicken is crispy?
• What sides go well with Lemon Pepper Chicken?
• Can I use thighs instead of breasts?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish is ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Experience: The combination of lemon and black pepper creates a refreshing and bold taste.
• Versatile Pairings: Serve it with your favorite sides—like veggies, rice, or salad—for a complete meal.
• Crispy Texture: The panko bread crumbs ensure that you get a satisfying crunch with each bite.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this delicious chicken cutlet.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to make the preparation smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large deep skillet
• Shallow dishes (for mixing coatings)
• Cooking spatula
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Large deep skillet: Ideal for frying chicken evenly while maintaining heat.
• Shallow dishes: Perfect for mixing and coating the chicken cutlets without making a mess.
• Cooking spatula: Helps flip the chicken without damaging the crispy coating.
• Cooling rack: Allows air circulation around the chicken to keep it crispy after cooking.

Ingredients

For the Lemon Oil

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Zest of 3 lemons

For the Breading

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup panko bread crumbs
• 2 1/2 teaspoons ground black pepper
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika

For the Chicken

• 4 chicken breast cutlets (or 2 chicken breasts sliced in half lengthwise)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lemon, cut into 1/4-inch thick slices

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

PIN THIS!

How to Make Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Lemon Oil

In a small bowl or shallow dish, combine 3 tablespoons olive oil with the zest of 3 lemons. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Breading Mixture

In another bowl or dish, mix together:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Panko bread crumbs
3. Ground black pepper
4. Garlic powder
5. Salt
6. Dried parsley
7. Paprika

Set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Heat the Skillet

Heat your large deep skillet over medium heat and add the remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken Cutlets

Dip each chicken cutlet into the lemon oil mixture, ensuring both sides are coated. Then dredge each cutlet in the breading mixture for an even coating. Place them on a plate or aluminum foil as you finish coating them all.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

Once your skillet is hot:
1. Place the breaded chicken cutlets in the skillet.
2. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on one side until golden brown.
3. Flip each cutlet and cook for another 5 minutes.

Step 6: Add Lemon Slices

During the final 5 minutes of cooking, add lemon slices to lightly caramelize them alongside the chicken.

Step 7: Check Doneness

Ensure that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Remove from heat.

Step 8: Rest Before Serving

Transfer cooked chicken onto a cooling rack and let it rest for about 2-3 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe

Serving Lemon Pepper Chicken is a delightful way to enjoy this flavorful dish. You can enhance the meal by pairing it with various sides and garnishes that complement its zesty profile.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli – The bright green color and mild flavor balance the boldness of the chicken.
• Roasted Asparagus – Adds a crunchy texture and earthy taste, perfect for a light meal.
• Grilled Zucchini – This adds a smoky flavor and pairs well with the lemony notes.

On a Bed of Greens

• Mixed Green Salad – Toss fresh greens with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Caesar Salad – A classic choice that adds creamy richness to the crispy chicken.

With Rice Dishes

• Lemon Herb Rice – Infuse rice with lemon zest and herbs for a complementary side.
• Garlic Butter Rice – The buttery flavor enhances the overall dish and makes it hearty.

How to Perfect Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe

To ensure your Lemon Pepper Chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these simple tips.

• Use Thin Cutlets – Thinner cutlets cook evenly and achieve that desired crispy texture.
• Preheat Your Skillet – A hot skillet helps create a golden crust on the chicken.
• Don’t Skip the Lemon Oil – The lemon oil adds moisture and helps the breading stick perfectly.
• Monitor Cooking Time – Flip the chicken at the right moment to avoid overcooking or burning.
• Rest Before Serving – Letting the chicken rest allows juices to redistribute, keeping it moist.

PIN THIS!

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe

Pairing your Lemon Pepper Chicken with delicious sides can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy potatoes complement the crispy chicken beautifully.
2. Quinoa Salad – A healthy option that adds texture and nutty flavor.
3. Couscous – Light and fluffy, couscous absorbs flavors well, making it an excellent choice.
4. Sweet Potato Fries – Their natural sweetness contrasts nicely with the savory chicken.
5. Coleslaw – A crunchy side that adds freshness and balances richness.
6. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn provides a delightful pop of flavor alongside your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Lemon Pepper Chicken, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the taste and texture of the dish.

• Skipping the Zest: Not using lemon zest diminishes the flavor. Make sure to include it for that zesty punch.
• Thick Cutlets: Using chicken cutlets that are too thick can result in uneven cooking. Aim for 1/2 inch thickness or pound them down.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Placing too many cutlets in the skillet at once can lead to steaming instead of frying. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Ignoring Temperature: Not checking the chicken’s internal temperature can lead to undercooked meat. Ensure it reaches 160°F (71°C) for safety.
• Storing Incorrectly: Storing leftover chicken in an airtight container can make the breading soggy. Use foil instead to keep it crisp.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Use loosely covered foil to maintain crispness while cooling.

Freezing Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe

• Freeze cooked chicken cutlets for up to 2 months.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for best results.

Reheating Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (204°C). Bake covered with foil for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Reheat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but be aware that this may soften the breading.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a bit of oil. Cook for 5-7 minutes until warmed, ensuring crispness is retained.

PIN THIS!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe?

A Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe features crispy, golden-breaded chicken cutlets seasoned with lemon zest and black pepper, ideal for quick weeknight dinners.

Can I customize my Lemon Pepper Chicken?

Absolutely! You can try adding different herbs or spices, such as oregano or thyme, to change up the flavor profile of your dish.

How do I ensure my chicken is crispy?

To achieve a crispy texture, ensure your chicken is well-coated in the breading mixture and avoid overcrowding the pan while cooking.

What sides go well with Lemon Pepper Chicken?

Lemon Pepper Chicken pairs beautifully with vegetables, salads, or rice, providing a balanced meal that’s both satisfying and flavorful.

Can I use thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Boneless chicken thighs can be used as a substitute, but adjust cooking time accordingly since they may require slightly longer to reach the proper internal temperature.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Pepper Chicken recipe is not only quick and easy but also versatile enough to complement various sides. With its delightful citrus flavor and crispy coating, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite herbs or side dishes!