Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken

There’s something incredibly comforting about a dish like Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken. I remember the first time I made it for my family; the kitchen was filled with the bright aroma of lemons and pepper, instantly making everyone feel at home. As we gathered around the table, the golden-brown chicken glistening under the soft glow of candlelight, I knew I had created a family favorite. The tender, juicy meat just melts in your mouth, and the citrusy zing adds a refreshing twist that keeps you coming back for more. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this dish always delivers on flavor and satisfaction.

Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken Shopping List

When creating Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken, the ingredients you choose play a crucial role in bringing this dish to life. Fresh and simple ingredients work together harmoniously, creating a balance of flavors that everyone loves. Let’s discuss the key players in this recipe.

• 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show! Tender and juicy, these chicken breasts soak up all the delightful flavors.
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: This adds a bright acidity that elevates the dish and keeps it refreshing.
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest: Packed with concentrated lemon flavor, it brings the essence of citrus to every bite.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides moisture and a rich base for the marinade, helping the chicken cook beautifully.
• 2 garlic cloves minced: Adds a robust flavor profile that complements the lemon perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory notes and rounds out the marinade.
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional): A touch of sweetness to balance the acidity of the lemon.
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a delightful kick that balances the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for bringing out the flavors in the dish.
• 1 tablespoon butter diced into small pieces (optional): Adds richness and helps keep the chicken moist during baking.
• Parsley for serving: Fresh and vibrant, it makes for a beautiful garnish.

How to Prepare Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken

Preparing Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. Here’s how to get started:

1. Preheat your oven to 400ºF. This temperature is ideal for baking chicken, ensuring it cooks through while remaining juicy.
2. Prepare your chicken breasts by placing them on a steady surface between two sheets of parchment or plastic wrap. Using the flat side of a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound each piece to an even thickness. This step ensures that the chicken cooks uniformly and remains tender.
3. Next, place the chicken in a 9×13-inch baking dish or similar-sized dish. You want enough room for the chicken to bake without overlapping.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, minced garlic, garlic powder, and the optional honey. This marinade will infuse the chicken with flavor.
5. Pour this flavorful mixture over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Sprinkle half of the kosher salt and ground black pepper on top of the chicken, then turn the pieces over and sprinkle with the remaining half. This method ensures flavor on both sides.
6. Pierce the chicken lightly with a fork all over. This helps the marinade penetrate deeper and allows for even seasoning.
7. Let the chicken marinate for 15 to 30 minutes at room temperature. This resting time is important for the flavors to develop. If you’re short on time, you can bake it right away, but the marinating step adds a lot of flavor.
8. Once marinated, place diced pieces of butter on top of the chicken. The butter will melt during baking, enhancing the flavor and moisture.
9. Bake on the middle rack of your oven until the chicken is nearly finished cooking through, reaching an internal temperature of about 160ºF. This usually takes about 30 to 35 minutes, depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts.
10. After baking, remove the chicken from the oven and transfer it to a plate. Loosely cover it with aluminum foil and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy chicken.
11. Finally, slice the chicken and serve it with the pan drippings, lemon slices, and your favorite sides. Enjoy!

Variations to Try

If you love experimenting, here are some variations to consider for Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken:

• Add Herbs: Consider adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the marinade for an aromatic experience.
• Spice it Up: If you like heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to your marinade.
• Different Marinades: Try using balsamic vinegar instead of lemon juice for a tangy twist.
• Vegetable Roasting: Add sliced vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the baking dish for a one-pan meal.
• Grilled Version: If it’s grilling season, marinate the chicken and throw it on the grill for a smoky flavor.
• Honey Lemon Glaze: Use a honey glaze on top before baking for a sweet and tangy finish.
• Serve with Different Sides: Pair with quinoa, couscous, or a hearty grain salad for a fuller meal.

What to Serve Alongside Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken

When it comes to serving Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken, the possibilities are endless! Here’s a list of ideas to complement your dish:

• Fresh Garden Salad: A vibrant salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers pairs beautifully with the zesty flavors of the chicken.
• Roasted Vegetables: Consider roasting vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or carrots with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt for a nutritious side.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make for a comforting side that balances the tangy chicken.
• Rice Pilaf: A light rice pilaf with herbs works wonderfully to soak up the delicious pan drippings.
• Quinoa Salad: Quinoa mixed with veggies and a light vinaigrette adds a healthy touch that complements the dish.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for a delightful, hearty touch that everyone will love.
• Seasonal Fruits: Fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or a fruit salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken.
• Easy Pasta Salad: A simple pasta salad with olive oil, parmesan, and veggies is a great side that can be made ahead of time.

FAQ

Conclusion

Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken is truly a dish that brings comfort and vibrant flavor to your dinner table. With its easy preparation and refreshing taste, it’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. I encourage you to give it a try and discover how this dish can become a beloved staple in your kitchen!

Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken combines juicy chicken with a zesty lemon kick that will leave you craving more! This easy weeknight dinner is bursting with flavor and sure to please the whole family. Make it tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional)
• to taste parsley for serving

Equipment

• Oven

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 400ºF. This temperature is ideal for baking chicken, ensuring it cooks through while remaining juicy.
2. Prepare your chicken breasts by placing them on a steady surface between two sheets of parchment or plastic wrap. Using the flat side of a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound each piece to an even thickness. This step ensures that the chicken cooks uniformly and remains tender.
3. Next, place the chicken in a 9x13-inch baking dish or similar-sized dish. You want enough room for the chicken to bake without overlapping.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, minced garlic, garlic powder, and the optional honey. This marinade will infuse the chicken with flavor.
5. Pour this flavorful mixture over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Sprinkle half of the kosher salt and ground black pepper on top of the chicken, then turn the pieces over and sprinkle with the remaining half. This method ensures flavor on both sides.
6. Pierce the chicken lightly with a fork all over. This helps the marinade penetrate deeper and allows for even seasoning.
7. Let the chicken marinate for 15 to 30 minutes at room temperature. This resting time is important for the flavors to develop. If you're short on time, you can bake it right away, but the marinating step adds a lot of flavor.
8. Once marinated, place diced pieces of butter on top of the chicken. The butter will melt during baking, enhancing the flavor and moisture.
9. Bake on the middle rack of your oven until the chicken is nearly finished cooking through, reaching an internal temperature of about 160ºF. This usually takes about 30 to 35 minutes, depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts.
10. After baking, remove the chicken from the oven and transfer it to a plate. Loosely cover it with aluminum foil and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy chicken.
11. Finally, slice the chicken and serve it with the pan drippings, lemon slices, and your favorite sides. Enjoy!

Notes

• This baked lemon chicken is awesome for lunch meal prep, especially on a salad.
• Serving it over a big leafy green salad with a ton of veggies is maybe my favorite way to eat this chicken.
• So bake up a big batch on Sunday and slice and save for meal prep for the week.
• This chicken will last about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

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Meet Fiona Lewis

I love cooking with the seasons and keeping things rustic and real. I believe the best meals are the ones shared with friends and family. I had so much fun creating this recipe, and I can't wait to hear what you think of it!