Description of this recipe: This Lemon Pepper Chicken Breast recipe delivers a juicy, flavorful, and incredibly easy-to-make main course. Tender chicken breasts are infused with the bright, tangy flavors of lemon and the peppery kick of freshly ground black pepper, complemented by the richness of butter and a hint of garlic and paprika. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick weekend meal.
Why you will love this recipe: This recipe offers the holy grail of home cooking: deliciousness without the fuss. It requires minimal prep time, utilizes readily available ingredients, and bakes in a single dish, minimizing cleanup. The vibrant lemon pepper seasoning creates a dish that’s both satisfying and healthy, making it a guilt-free pleasure. Moreover, it’s incredibly versatile. Pair it with roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or fluffy rice for a complete and balanced meal. The zesty aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes is an added bonus!
Introduction
In the realm of simple yet satisfying meals, the Lemon Pepper Chicken Breast reigns supreme. It’s a testament to the fact that you don’t need a complicated recipe or a pantry full of exotic ingredients to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. This recipe is designed for busy individuals and families who crave a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The lemon pepper seasoning, a classic combination of citrusy tang and spicy warmth, elevates the humble chicken breast to a new level of deliciousness. The addition of butter ensures that the chicken remains moist and tender throughout the baking process, while the garlic powder and paprika add subtle depth and complexity to the flavor profile.
This Lemon Pepper Chicken Breast recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s the aroma of lemon and pepper mingling in the oven, the sizzle of butter melting, and the satisfaction of knowing that you’re about to enjoy a healthy and flavorful dish that you created with your own hands. It’s a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into something truly special. So, let’s gather our ingredients, preheat the oven, and embark on a culinary journey that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
- 4 Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe. Choose breasts that are of similar size for even cooking. You can also use bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts, but you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- ½ Cup Butter, Cut in Pieces: Butter adds richness and flavor to the chicken. Use unsalted butter to control the sodium content of the dish. Cutting the butter into pieces ensures that it melts evenly over the chicken.
- ¼ Cup Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is essential for this recipe. It provides the signature tangy flavor and helps to tenderize the chicken. Bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch, but it won’t have the same vibrant flavor.
- 1 Teaspoon Lemon Pepper: Lemon pepper seasoning is a readily available spice blend that combines lemon zest and black pepper. You can also make your own lemon pepper seasoning by combining dried lemon zest and freshly ground black pepper.
- 1 Teaspoon Paprika: Paprika adds a subtle smoky flavor and a beautiful color to the chicken. You can use sweet paprika or smoked paprika, depending on your preference.
- 1 Teaspoon Garlic Powder: Garlic powder adds a savory depth to the flavor profile. Freshly minced garlic can also be used, but garlic powder is more convenient for this recipe.
- 1 Lemon, Sliced: Lemon slices not only add flavor but also enhance the visual appeal of the dish. They release their juices during baking, infusing the chicken with a bright, citrusy aroma.
- Salt and Pepper, to Taste: Salt and pepper are essential seasonings that enhance the overall flavor of the dish. Adjust the amount of salt and pepper according to your personal preference.
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
Preheating the oven is crucial for ensuring that the chicken cooks evenly and reaches a safe internal temperature. Make sure your oven is fully preheated before placing the baking dish inside.
Step 2: Place chicken breasts in a 13×9 inch baking dish and pour lemon juice over chicken.
Choose a baking dish that is large enough to accommodate the chicken breasts without overcrowding them. Overcrowding the pan can lead to steaming instead of baking, which can result in chicken that is not as browned or flavorful. Drizzle the lemon juice evenly over the chicken breasts, ensuring that they are thoroughly coated.
Step 3: Mix together all the seasonings and sprinkle evenly over the chicken.
In a small bowl, combine the lemon pepper, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure that all the seasonings are evenly distributed. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken breasts, pressing lightly to help it adhere.
Step 4: Place one tablespoon of butter on each chicken breast and place the remaining 2 tablespoons cut into pieces around the chicken.
Distribute the butter evenly over the chicken breasts to ensure that they remain moist and tender during baking. Place a tablespoon of butter on top of each chicken breast and scatter the remaining pieces around the chicken in the baking dish. As the butter melts, it will create a flavorful sauce that coats the chicken and keeps it from drying out.
Step 5: Slice the lemon and add sliced into on and around the chicken.
Thinly slice the lemon and arrange the slices on and around the chicken breasts. The lemon slices will release their juices during baking, infusing the chicken with a bright, citrusy aroma and flavor.
Step 6: Bake uncovered for 30-45 minutes until chicken reaches the internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius).
Bake the chicken uncovered in the preheated oven for 30-45 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius). Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken is cooked through. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the breast, being careful not to touch any bones. The baking time will vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts, so it’s important to check the internal temperature to ensure that they are cooked safely.
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Roasted Vegetables: Pair the Lemon Pepper Chicken Breast with roasted vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts for a healthy and balanced meal.
- Simple Salad: Serve the chicken with a fresh salad for a light and refreshing meal.
- Fluffy Rice: Accompany the chicken with fluffy rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a comforting and delicious side dish for Lemon Pepper Chicken Breast.
- Quinoa: For a healthier option, serve the chicken with quinoa.
Tips:
- For best results, use fresh lemon juice and zest.
- Adjust the amount of lemon pepper seasoning to your liking.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking dish, as this can cause the chicken to steam instead of bake.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
30-45 minutes
Total Time:
40-55 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving size.)
- Calories: Approximately 300-350 per serving
- Protein: Approximately 40-45 grams per serving
- Sodium: Approximately 200-300 mg per serving (depending on added salt)
Conclusion
The Lemon Pepper Chicken Breast is a culinary gem that proves that deliciousness and simplicity can coexist. This recipe is a testament to the power of fresh ingredients and straightforward techniques. With minimal effort and readily available ingredients, you can create a flavorful and satisfying meal that will impress your family and friends. So, the next time you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner option, reach for this recipe and experience the zesty delight of Lemon Pepper Chicken Breast. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it is important to thaw them completely before cooking. Thawing chicken breasts in the refrigerator overnight is the safest and most recommended method. You can also thaw them in a sealed bag in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes. Avoid thawing chicken breasts at room temperature, as this can create a breeding ground for bacteria. Once thawed, pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels before proceeding with the recipe.
Q2: Can I add other vegetables to the baking dish with the chicken?
A: Absolutely! Adding vegetables to the baking dish is a great way to create a complete one-pan meal. Some vegetables that pair well with lemon pepper chicken include broccoli florets, asparagus spears, sliced carrots, bell pepper chunks, and quartered onions. Toss the vegetables with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper before adding them to the baking dish alongside the chicken. Keep in mind that different vegetables have different cooking times, so you may need to add them to the baking dish at different intervals to ensure that they are all cooked to perfection. Root vegetables like carrots and potatoes may need to be added earlier than softer vegetables like broccoli and asparagus.
Q3: How can I make this recipe even healthier?
A: There are several ways to make this recipe even healthier. First, you can reduce the amount of butter or substitute it with olive oil. Olive oil is a healthier fat that can provide a similar flavor and moisture to the chicken. Second, you can use skinless chicken breasts to reduce the fat content of the dish. Third, you can add more vegetables to the baking dish to increase the nutrient content of the meal. Finally, you can use a lower sodium lemon pepper seasoning or make your own using dried lemon zest and freshly ground black pepper to control the sodium level.
Q4: Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?
A: Yes, you can definitely grill the chicken instead of baking it. Preheat your grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grates. Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius). Be sure to monitor the chicken closely to prevent it from burning. You can also grill the lemon slices alongside the chicken for added flavor.
Q5: What is the best way to store leftover Lemon Pepper Chicken Breast?
A: To store leftover Lemon Pepper Chicken Breast, allow it to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. Store the chicken in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat the chicken in the oven, microwave, or on the stovetop. To reheat in the oven, preheat to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. To reheat in the microwave, place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. To reheat on the stovetop, heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for a few minutes per side, or until heated through. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees before consumption.
