Name: Easy Lemon Pepper Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.3 lbs total); 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning; 1 tablespoon cooking oil; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional); 1/8 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

Easy Lemon Pepper Chicken is a quick, flavorful recipe that delivers juicy chicken with a zesty, peppery kick. Cooked in a skillet and finished with a simple lemony pan sauce, this recipe is perfect for weeknights when you want something fast and delicious with minimal ingredients and effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a great go-to for busy nights. It uses simple, budget-friendly ingredients but delivers bold, satisfying flavor. The lemon pepper seasoning gives the chicken a zesty, savory crust, while the buttery garlic sauce adds richness to every bite.

Ingredients

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.3 lbs. total)
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning
1 tablespoon cooking oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon butter
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
1/8 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prep the Chicken: Fillet each chicken breast into two thinner pieces for even cooking.
Coat the Chicken: In a bowl, combine flour and lemon pepper seasoning. Rub the mixture onto both sides of the chicken pieces until fully coated.
Cook the Chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add chicken and cook for about 5 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and cover to keep warm.
Make the Sauce: Add butter and garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute. Add chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in lemon juice and simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly reduced.
Finish and Serve: Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over the top. Garnish with black pepper and chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add Veggies: Serve with sautéed asparagus, broccoli, or spinach for a complete meal.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or use a spicy lemon pepper blend.
Creamy Sauce: Stir in a splash of heavy cream for a richer pan sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if needed to keep the chicken moist.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work great and stay juicy. Adjust cook time as needed.

Do I need fresh lemon juice?

Bottled lemon juice works fine since most of the flavor comes from the lemon pepper seasoning.

What is lemon pepper seasoning made of?

It typically includes lemon zest, black pepper, citric acid, and salt.

Can I use gluten-free flour?

Yes, a gluten-free all-purpose flour works as a coating substitute.

Can I meal prep this chicken?

Definitely! It stores and reheats well, making it ideal for lunch or dinner meal prep.

Conclusion

Easy Lemon Pepper Chicken is a flavorful, quick, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re looking for something zesty and comforting. With minimal ingredients and a short cook time, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Serve it with pasta, rice, or veggies for a complete, delicious dinner!