Lemon Pepper Chicken is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that brings together juicy chicken breasts with a zesty, buttery lemon sauce. The combination of crispy golden chicken and a tangy garlic lemon butter sauce is simply irresistible. It’s perfect for any weeknight dinner or special occasion when you’re craving something bright, savory, and satisfying.

Lemon Pepper Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this Lemon Pepper Chicken because it balances crispy, flavorful chicken with a rich, tangy sauce that enhances every bite. The lemon pepper seasoning gives the chicken a fresh, citrusy kick that pairs perfectly with the garlic butter sauce. Plus, it’s easy to make and comes together quickly, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights. Whether I’m serving it with a side of veggies or on a bed of rice, it always feels like a special meal.

Ingredients

Chicken Breasts: 2 large chicken breasts (about 1 ½ pounds), or 4 smaller pieces that can be pounded flatter.
Flour: You can substitute cornstarch or arrowroot flour if you’re gluten-free. This will be combined with the seasoning for a crispy golden crust.
Lemon Pepper Seasoning: A good bottle of lemon pepper seasoning. Check for quality and minimal fillers.
Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce:
- Butter
- Fresh lemon juice and zest
- Minced garlic (I recommend fresh garlic for the best flavor)
- Chicken broth

(Her’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Slice and season the chicken: Start by slicing the chicken breasts in half horizontally, creating thinner pieces. Then, combine the flour with the lemon pepper seasoning and sprinkle it evenly on both sides of the chicken, pressing the seasoning gently into the meat.
Cook the chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken to the pan and sear it for about 3 to 4 minutes on one side. Flip the chicken and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160 to 165°F. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Make the sauce: In the same pan, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and fresh lemon juice, letting the sauce reduce for 1 to 2 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Finish and serve: Return the chicken to the pan and spoon the sauce over the top. Let the chicken soak in the flavor for a minute. Garnish with lemon zest, and if you like, add chopped parsley and lemon slices for extra flair. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and timing

This recipe makes enough for 4 servings. The cooking time is around 15-20 minutes, making it a perfect option when you’re short on time but craving something delicious.

Variations

Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the regular flour with cornstarch or arrowroot flour for a gluten-free version of this dish.
Add Veggies: You can toss in some vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or spinach into the pan along with the sauce for an easy, one-pan meal.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix or sauce for a spicy kick.
Lemon Herb Chicken: Swap the lemon pepper seasoning for a blend of dried herbs such as thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

I like to store leftover Lemon Pepper Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When I’m ready to reheat, I either use a microwave or gently warm it in a skillet over medium-low heat to avoid drying out the chicken. You can also freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months if you want to save some for later.

FAQs

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The best way to check is by using an instant-read thermometer. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 160 to 165°F for optimal juiciness and safety.

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work perfectly for this recipe. They might need a slightly longer cooking time since they’re a bit thicker than chicken breasts.

Can I make the lemon butter sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the lemon garlic butter sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

What can I serve with Lemon Pepper Chicken?

I love serving it with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or even a light salad. It’s versatile and pairs well with almost anything!

Can I double this recipe for a larger group?

Absolutely! You can easily double the ingredients and cook in batches, depending on the size of your pan. Just make sure not to overcrowd the chicken in the pan while searing.

Conclusion

Lemon Pepper Chicken is one of those dishes that combines simple ingredients with incredible flavor. The crispy, seasoned chicken paired with the tangy garlic lemon butter sauce makes it a dish I keep coming back to. Whether I’m cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or preparing a meal for guests, this recipe always impresses. The best part is that it’s quick, easy, and always delicious. I highly recommend giving it a try – I’m sure you’ll love it as much as I do!