Lemon Pepper Chicken

Yields: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus 15 minutes for brining, optional but recommended)
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30-45 minutes

Recipe Intensity: Easy – This recipe relies on fundamental searing and deglazing techniques. The most important skill is knowing when the chicken is perfectly cooked. It’s very achievable for cooks of any level.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total), or 4 thin-cut breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 teaspoons homemade lemon pepper seasoning (see below) or high-quality store-bought
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon garlic powder

For the Homemade Lemon Pepper Seasoning (yields extra):

2 tablespoons freshly cracked black pepper
1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 2 large lemons)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder

For the Lemon Pan Sauce:

3 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (from about 1 lemon)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cut into pieces
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
Thin lemon slices, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: The Secret to Juicy Chicken (The Brine)

For the most tender and flavorful chicken, consider a quick brine. In a large bowl, dissolve 1 tablespoon of salt in 4 cups of cold water. Submerge the chicken breasts and let them sit for 15-30 minutes at room temperature. Remove the chicken, pat it very dry with paper towels, and proceed. This simple step ensures juicy results every time.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken and Seasoning

If using two large chicken breasts, slice them in half horizontally to create four thinner cutlets. This ensures quick, even cooking. Pat the chicken completely dry—this is non-negotiable for a good sear.

In a small bowl, combine the ingredients for the homemade lemon pepper seasoning: the cracked black pepper, lemon zest, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well. The fresh lemon zest is a game-changer, providing an intense, natural citrus oil that dried powder can’t match.

Sprinkle both sides of the chicken cutlets evenly with the kosher salt and about two-thirds of your lemon pepper seasoning (homemade or store-bought), reserving the rest for the sauce.

Step 3: The Perfect Pan Sear

Heat a large heavy-bottomed skillet (stainless steel or cast iron work best) over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the chicken cutlets to the pan, ensuring they are not crowded.

Sear, without moving them, for 5-7 minutes on the first side, until a deep golden-brown crust forms. Flip the chicken and cook for another 4-6 minutes on the second side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with an instant-read thermometer.

Pro-Tip: Resist the urge to move the chicken around in the pan! Letting it sit undisturbed is the key to developing that beautiful, flavorful crust.

Step 4: Rest the Chicken

Transfer the cooked chicken to a clean plate or cutting board and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is moist. Do not skip this step!

Step 5: Create the Vibrant Pan Sauce

Reduce the skillet heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the pan drippings and sauté for just 30 seconds until fragrant—be careful not to burn it.

Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Using a whisk or wooden spoon, scrape all the browned bits from the bottom of the pan (this is where all the flavor is!). Let the liquid simmer and reduce by about half, which should take 2-3 minutes.

Turn off the heat. Whisk in the cold butter, one piece at a time, until the sauce becomes slightly thickened and glossy. This technique, called monter au beurre, creates a smooth, emulsified sauce. Stir in the remaining lemon pepper seasoning and the fresh parsley.

Step 6: Serve and Savor

Return the rested chicken to the pan, turning to coat in the sauce, or arrange the chicken on a serving platter and pour the sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh lemon slices and an extra sprinkle of parsley.

Serve immediately. This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides that won’t compete with its bright flavor, such as garlic mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or a simple arugula salad.

Nutrition Information

Please note: The following is an estimate based on the ingredients used and can vary significantly based on specific brands and portion sizes. It is provided for informational purposes only.

Serving Size: 1 chicken cutlet with sauce
Calories: ~285
Total Fat: 15g

Saturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 115mg
Sodium: 480mg
Total Carbohydrates: 3g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 0g
Protein: 35g

Dietary Considerations: This recipe is high in protein and naturally low in carbohydrates. For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with a tablespoon of olive oil, though the sauce will be less creamy. The sodium content can be controlled by using a low-sodium chicken broth and adjusting the salt added to the chicken.

Storing, Reheating, and Pro-Tips

Storing Leftovers: Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store the sauce separately if possible.
Reheating for Best Results: Reheat gently in a covered skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying out. The microwave can make the chicken rubbery.
The Dry Chicken Rule: The single most important step for a golden crust is patting the chicken completely dry with paper towels before seasoning.
Don’t Crowd the Pan: Cooking in batches is better than steaming the chicken. If you crowd the skillet, the chicken will release steam and won’t brown properly.
Use a Thermometer: The best way to guarantee perfectly cooked chicken is to use an instant-read thermometer. Pull the chicken at 165°F (74°C).
Customize It: Add 2 tablespoons of capers to the pan sauce for a briny, piccata-style twist. You can also use chicken thighs for a richer, more forgiving cut of meat.

This Pan-Seared Lemon Pepper Chicken is more than a recipe; it’s a fundamental technique that will serve you for a lifetime of delicious cooking. It proves that with a little care and attention, a few simple ingredients can be transformed into a dish that is both effortlessly elegant and deeply satisfying.