Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken: The Ultimate Flavor Explosion!
Baked lemon pepper chicken is a delightful dish that bursts with zesty flavors and mouthwatering aromas. Imagine tender, juicy chicken marinated in a vibrant blend of fresh lemon juice, zesty lemon zest, and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper, all baked to golden perfection. This easy-to-make recipe transforms simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece that will have your taste buds dancing. Serve it alongside roasted veggies or fluffy rice, and watch as your family gathers around the table, eager for a taste of this irresistible flavor sensation!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- The zesty lemon and bold pepper create a mouthwatering flavor combination.
- Healthy and low in calories, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
- Versatile enough to pair with your favorite sides, from veggies to grains.
- Perfect for meal prep—enjoy leftovers throughout the week!
Table of Contents
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Main Dish |
| Cuisine: | American |
| Prep Time: | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 45 minutes |
| Total Time: | 1 hour |
| Dietary: | Gluten-Free |
| Serves: | 4 |
| Best Served: | With rice or salad |
Ingredients
- Chicken thighs – perfect for juicy, tender results.
- Lemon juice – adds a zesty brightness to the dish.
- Lemon zest – enhances the lemon flavor with aromatic oils.
- Black pepper – provides a spicy kick that complements the lemon.
- Garlic powder – adds depth and savory notes to the chicken.
- Onion powder – brings a subtle sweetness and richness.
- Olive oil – helps to keep the chicken moist and flavorful.
- Salt – essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
- Fresh parsley – for a pop of color and fresh taste as a garnish.
Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.
How to Make the baked lemon pepper chicken
Get ready to whip up some delicious baked lemon pepper chicken with these easy steps!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and let it warm up while you prepare the chicken.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Grab 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels.
Step 3: Make the Marinade
In a bowl, mix 1/4 cup olive oil, the juice of 2 lemons, 2 teaspoons lemon zest, 2 teaspoons black pepper, and 1 teaspoon garlic powder.
Step 4: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken in a zip-top bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Seal or cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 5: Prepare the Baking Dish
Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Arrange the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it in the prepared baking dish. Discard the leftover marinade.
Step 7: Season the Chicken
Sprinkle a little extra lemon zest and black pepper on top for that extra zing!
Step 8: Bake the Chicken
Pop the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear.
Step 9: Let it Rest
Once done, take the chicken out and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy!
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy!
Plate your baked lemon pepper chicken with your favorite sides and dig in. Enjoy the explosion of flavors!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
•Marinate the chicken for at least an hour to enhance the flavor.
•Use fresh lemon juice for a brighter, more vibrant taste.
•Adjust the pepper to your liking; start with less if you’re sensitive to spice.
•For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for the last few minutes of baking.
•Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
How to Serve
Enjoy your baked lemon pepper chicken with these delicious serving suggestions:
- Serve it over a bed of fluffy quinoa for a nutritious twist.
- Pair with steamed broccoli or green beans for a vibrant side.
- Top a fresh garden salad with sliced chicken for a zesty lunch.
- Wrap in a whole wheat tortilla with avocado and lettuce for a tasty sandwich.
- Complement with roasted sweet potatoes for a hearty meal.
- Drizzle with a homemade lemon vinaigrette for extra zing.
- Serve alongside a creamy garlic dip for a fun appetizer.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your baked lemon pepper chicken fresh:
- Allow the chicken to cool completely.
- Place it in an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
For longer storage, follow these steps:
- Wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap.
- Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
To enjoy your chicken again:
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
- For best results, cover with foil to retain moisture.
FAQs
What can I serve with baked lemon pepper chicken?
Baked lemon pepper chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or fluffy rice. These options complement the zesty flavors and make for a well-rounded meal.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and will add a richer flavor to the dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through compared to breasts.
How do I store leftovers?
To store leftovers, let the chicken cool completely, then place it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to enjoy it again!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken ahead of time! Marinate it in the lemon pepper seasoning and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to really penetrate the chicken for an even tastier meal.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken that’s bursting with flavor and oh-so-simple to whip up! Picture yourself savoring each juicy bite, the zesty lemon dancing on your taste buds. It’s a dish that brings warmth to the table and smiles all around. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy this delightful meal with loved ones. You deserve it!
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