Lemon Pepper Chicken brings a burst of citrusy freshness to the table with every bite. The golden, pan-seared crust locks in juicy flavor, while the zesty lemon and fragrant pepper create a balance that’s both vibrant and comforting.

Finished with a luscious garlic butter sauce, this dish transforms simple chicken into a restaurant-worthy meal. The tang of lemon, richness of butter, and savory broth meld together into a sauce that’s perfect for spooning over each bite.

Quick to prepare yet full of flavor, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or casual entertaining. With its bright, fresh finish and satisfying depth, it’s the kind of dish that makes dinner feel effortless and special.

Lemon Pepper Chicken Ingredients

Juicy chicken breasts form the heart of this dish, offering a tender base that soaks up every layer of flavor.

Lemon pepper seasoning delivers a bright citrusy kick balanced by a subtle heat, giving the chicken its signature zest.

Garlic adds a savory depth, infusing the sauce with rich, aromatic notes that complement the tangy lemon.

Fresh lemon juice and zest bring brightness and freshness, elevating the flavors with a clean, vibrant finish.

Butter creates a velvety sauce, enriching the dish with a touch of indulgence that ties everything together.

Recipe Tips

1. Get the Perfect Sear
For beautifully golden chicken, make sure your pan is hot before adding the meat. Avoid overcrowding, as this traps steam and prevents browning. Searing locks in juices while creating that irresistible crust that pairs perfectly with the lemon butter sauce.

2. Balance the Flavors
The key to lemon pepper chicken is harmony between citrus and savory. Fresh lemon juice and zest brighten the dish, while garlic and butter add richness. If the sauce tastes too sharp, a touch more butter or broth helps mellow the acidity without overpowering the flavor.

3. Don’t Overcook the Chicken
Chicken breast cooks quickly, and overcooking can lead to dryness. Use an instant-read thermometer for accuracy—remove the chicken once it reaches 160°F, as it will continue cooking slightly while resting. This ensures tender, juicy results every time.

What to Serve with Lemon Pepper Chicken

Lemon pepper chicken pairs wonderfully with light and fresh sides that balance its zesty flavors. A crisp garden salad with cucumbers and cherry tomatoes offers a refreshing contrast, while roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli add earthy depth. For something more filling, serve with buttery mashed potatoes or fluffy white rice that can soak up the tangy garlic butter sauce. Each option complements the chicken without overpowering its bright and citrusy profile.

FAQ

Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well and add extra juiciness. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take longer to cook through.

Q2: How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Swap the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free alternative. The sauce will still have great flavor, though slightly less richness.

Q3: Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can cook the chicken in advance and refrigerate it. Reheat gently in the sauce to keep it moist and flavorful.

Q4: Is lemon pepper seasoning store-bought or homemade?
Either works. Store-bought is convenient, but homemade (lemon zest mixed with cracked pepper and salt) delivers fresher, more vibrant flavor.

Lemon Pepper Chicken

This lemon pepper chicken is an excellent choice for weeknight dining, offering a balance of bright citrus notes and savory depth. Each piece is seared to golden perfection, then finished with a silky lemon-garlic butter sauce that enhances both flavor and texture.

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 10

Total Time 15

Servings: 5 People

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

For the Lemon Pepper Chicken
2 large chicken breasts approximately 1 ½ pounds
1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning
1 tablespoon arrowroot powder or preferred flour substitute
½ teaspoon kosher salt
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
For the Sauce
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 garlic cloves finely minced
3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice about 1 lemon
¼ cup low-sodium chicken broth
1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley and thin lemon slices

Method

Prepare the chicken: Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create thinner portions.
Seasoning blend: In a small bowl, combine the arrowroot powder (or flour), lemon pepper seasoning, and salt until evenly mixed.
Coat the chicken: Rub the seasoning mixture thoroughly over both sides of the chicken, pressing gently to adhere.
Cook the chicken: Warm the olive oil in a large skillet set over medium-high heat. Place the chicken in the pan and sear for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until an internal temperature of 160–165°F is reached. Transfer to a plate.
Prepare the sauce: Melt the butter in the same pan, then sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds. Stir in the chicken broth and lemon juice, allowing the sauce to simmer briefly until slightly reduced.
Combine and finish: Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce generously over the top. Sprinkle with lemon zest and garnish with parsley and lemon slices, if desired.

Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe