Lemon Pepper Chicken

A quick and flavorful dinner that’s ready in less than 20 minutes, this lemon pepper chicken is a bright, savory classic that always satisfies. Juicy chicken breasts are pan-seared until golden, then coated in a tangy lemon butter sauce that tastes like sunshine on a plate. Perfect for busy nights or easy meal prep, it’s gluten-free adaptable, family-friendly, and pairs beautifully with many sides. The balance of citrus, garlic, and pepper creates a dish that feels both light and comforting. You’ll love how simple it is to make, yet how special it tastes when served warm from the pan.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Pepper Chicken
This lemon pepper chicken delivers incredible flavor in no time. The fresh lemon juice brightens each bite while garlic and butter bring rich, savory notes. It’s perfect when you want something homemade without spending hours in the kitchen. The dish fits any mood, whether you’re cooking for family or prepping meals ahead. Plus, it’s gluten-free friendly and works beautifully with all kinds of sides. Once you make it, it will quickly become a weeknight favorite you’ll come back to again and again.

What You’ll Need
You only need simple staples for this recipe. Start with fresh chicken breasts for a tender base. Use high-quality lemon pepper seasoning for the best flavor and balance. A touch of flour or starch helps form a light crust that seals in the juices. Garlic and butter give the sauce its savory depth, while fresh lemon juice and zest add bright, clean notes. Even a bit of chicken broth enhances the flavor and ties everything together.

Ingredients

Chicken breasts, halved or pounded thin
Flour or cornstarch (use gluten-free if needed)
Lemon pepper seasoning
Salt, to taste
Cooking oil
Unsalted butter
Fresh garlic, minced
Fresh lemon juice
Low-sodium chicken broth
Lemon zest
Optional parsley and lemon slices for garnish
Butter and garlic bring richness and warmth, while lemon zest at the end lifts the entire dish with a fresh burst of citrus.

How To Make Lemon Pepper Chicken

Prep the Chicken

Slice the chicken horizontally into thinner cutlets so they cook evenly and quickly. If needed, gently pound them to equal thickness for the perfect sear.

Season and Coat

In a bowl, combine flour, lemon pepper seasoning, and salt. Coat each chicken piece evenly by pressing the mixture in with your hands. This creates a light crust that keeps the meat tender and flavorful.

Sear Until Golden

Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about three to four minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Check that the internal temperature reaches 160 to 165°F for juicy results. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

Melt butter in the same skillet and add the minced garlic. Let it cook until fragrant, then pour in chicken broth and lemon juice. Stir while simmering for a couple of minutes until the sauce slightly thickens and smells amazing.

Combine and Serve

Return the chicken to the pan and spoon the lemon butter sauce over each piece. Sprinkle with lemon zest, parsley, or lemon slices for color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy how the flavors blend perfectly together.

Tips for Perfect Lemon Pepper Chicken

Always use high-quality lemon pepper seasoning for clean, bold flavor. Fresh lemon juice adds brightness that bottled versions can’t match. Adjust the salt to your taste since some seasonings already contain it. For more depth, add a splash of white wine to the sauce. If you like it thicker, mix in a bit more flour or let it simmer a minute longer. Use a thermometer to check for doneness and avoid overcooking. Let the chicken rest for a minute before serving so the juices stay inside.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this lemon pepper chicken with mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or zucchini noodles for a light option. It also pairs well with steamed green beans or rice. You can slice leftovers and add them to salads or wraps. It’s great for meal prep and quick weekday lunches. For more chicken ideas, try this crispy air fryer chicken wings or the creamy ranch chicken one-pan recipe.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months. When ready to reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm in the microwave for about two minutes or reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth to keep the sauce smooth and flavorful.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, they work just as well but may take slightly longer to cook.
How do I make it dairy-free? Replace the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free alternative.
Can I bake instead of pan-sear? Yes, bake at 400°F for about twenty minutes, then pour the sauce over before serving.
What if my seasoning is salty? Reduce the added salt and taste the sauce as you go.

Other Recipes You May Enjoy

• baked chicken thighs in creamy sauce
• slow cooker chicken enchilada casserole
• chicken with buttered noodles
• juicy lemon garlic chicken thighs

Conclusion

This lemon pepper chicken is full of flavor, easy to make, and perfect for any night of the week. The lemon and garlic give it a fresh taste that feels both light and satisfying. With just a few ingredients and quick steps, you’ll have a meal that looks impressive but takes little effort. Serve it for dinner or meal prep lunches, and it will quickly become a go-to favorite. For more inspiration and easy recipes, visit Pinterest and save it for later.