Lemon Pepper Chicken is a delightful dish that perfectly balances the zesty brightness of lemons with the earthy warmth of black pepper, creating a harmonious symphony of flavors. This recipe has been a staple in my kitchen for years, always eliciting smiles and requests for second helpings from family and friends.
Origin and History
This recipe holds a special place in my heart as it was passed down to me by my grandmother, who learned it from her own mother. It has roots in traditional Mediterranean cuisine, where the tanginess of lemons and the spiciness of pepper are celebrated flavors that can transform even the simplest of ingredients into a culinary masterpiece.
Ingredients and Flavor Profile
The star ingredients of this dish are juicy chicken thighs, fresh lemons, fragrant black peppercorns, and a blend of aromatic herbs. The lemon infuses the chicken with a bright, citrusy essence, while the pepper adds a subtle kick that keeps every bite exciting. The marriage of these flavors creates a dish that is both comforting and invigorating, perfect for any occasion.
Cooking Techniques
The key to achieving the perfect Lemon Pepper Chicken lies in the marination process. Allowing the chicken to soak up the lemon juice and pepper overnight ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor. Searing the chicken to golden perfection in a hot skillet before finishing it off in the oven ensures a juicy and tender result that will have your taste buds dancing with delight.
Indulge in this Lemon Pepper Chicken recipe to experience a burst of tangy, peppery goodness that will leave you craving more.
Lemon Pepper Chicken
Description
Tender chicken with a tangy kick of citrus and a warm hint of spice, a delightful dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
Optional Ingredients
Instructions
Preparation
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Prep the Chicken
Pat dry 4 chicken breasts with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and 2 tbsp of lemon pepper seasoning.Allow the chicken to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes to absorb the flavors. -
Prep the Lemon
Zest and juice 2 lemons. Set aside the zest for garnish and reserve the juice for later use.
Cooking
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Sear the Chicken
In a skillet over medium-high heat, add 2 tbsp of olive oil. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.Cooking time may vary based on the thickness of the chicken breasts. -
Add Lemon Flavor
Pour in the lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to infuse the chicken with lemony goodness.
Finishing Touches
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Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle the chicken with the reserved lemon zest. Serve hot with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
Note
- For a more intense flavor, marinate the chicken in the lemon pepper seasoning for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Adjust the amount of lemon pepper seasoning to suit your taste preferences.
- Make sure to pat the chicken dry before seasoning it to help the spices adhere better.
- You can use fresh lemon zest for a brighter lemon flavor.
- Serve the lemon pepper chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Leftover lemon pepper chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat the chicken, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through.