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A cooked lemon pepper chicken dinner on a white plate with sides.

Classic Lemon Pepper Chicken Dinner

A quick and easy classic lemon pepper chicken dinner featuring tender chicken breasts or thighs in a vibrant lemon-pepper sauce, perfect for a weeknight meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • skillet
  • paper towels

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 fresh lemon for zest and juice
  • 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper or more to taste
  • 2-3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp butter optional
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt to taste

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Pat the chicken dry with paper towels then season generously with salt and fresh black pepper.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken for 4-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through; remove and set aside.
  • Reduce heat to medium, sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then pour in chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits.
  • Stir in fresh lemon juice and zest, bring to a simmer, and reduce slightly for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  • If desired, stir in butter until melted, then taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  • Return the cooked chicken to the pan, coat with the lemon pepper sauce, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.

Notes

For thicker chicken breasts, butterfly them or pound them slightly thinner to ensure even cooking. The butter in the sauce is optional but adds richness and a silky texture. Adjust lemon and pepper to your personal preference.