Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken Breast Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that the whole family will love, you’ve come to the right place! This Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken Breast Recipe has become one of my go-to dinners. It’s not just bursting with flavor, but it also takes minimal time to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or even family gatherings. With juicy chicken and zesty lemon pepper seasoning, it’s a dish that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen.

The best part? You can whip this up in just 40 minutes, which means more time enjoying dinner with your loved ones and less time stressing over what to cook!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 10 minutes of prep time, so you won’t be stuck in the kitchen!
• Flavorful Delight: The combination of lemon juice and spices makes for a zesty taste that brightens up any meal.
• Healthy Option: Low-carb and gluten-free, this chicken is as nutritious as it is delicious, fitting perfectly into any balanced diet.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this dish; it’s savory and appealing to all ages!
• Make Ahead Convenience: You can marinate the chicken ahead of time or make extra for meal prep during the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients to make this delightful dish! They are easy to find and will ensure your baked lemon pepper chicken turns out perfectly every time.

For the Chicken

• 16 ounces Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and Pepper to taste
• 4 teaspoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon-pepper seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 4 teaspoons butter

Optional Garnishes

• Parsley garnish (optional)
• Lemon slices (optional)

Variations

One of the great things about this recipe is its flexibility. Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences!

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey breast or even tofu for a plant-based option that still delivers on flavor.
• Add some veggies: Toss in some sliced bell peppers or asparagus around the chicken before baking for a complete meal.
• Change the spice: If you like it spicy, add some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for an extra kick!
• Experiment with herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can add unique flavors—just sprinkle them on before baking.

How to Make Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken Breast Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees. This is important because a properly heated oven ensures your chicken cooks evenly and stays juicy.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Place your boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a baking dish. Once they’re ready, sprinkle them with salt and pepper to taste. This step adds essential seasoning right from the start.

Step 3: Add Lemon Juice

Gently spoon lemon juice over each piece of chicken. This not only enhances flavor but also helps tenderize the meat—trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Step 4: Season Generously

Sprinkle the remaining ingredients—lemon-pepper seasoning, garlic powder, paprika—over the chicken. These spices create a beautiful crust while baking that locks in all those delicious flavors.

Step 5: Top with Butter

Place a slice of butter on top of each chicken breast. As it melts during baking, it adds richness and moisture that keeps your chicken juicy.

Step 6: Bake

Bake uncovered for approximately 30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and juices run clear. If you’d like, spoon some of those tasty juices over the chicken before serving for an extra burst of flavor!

Step 7: Garnish & Serve

Finally, garnish with parsley and serve with fresh lemon slices if desired. Enjoy this delightful dish straight from the oven—it’s sure to impress everyone at your table!

Pro Tips for Making Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken Breast Recipe

This dish is as simple as it is delicious, and a few pro tips can take your chicken to the next level!

• Use fresh lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice enhances the flavor more than bottled varieties, giving your chicken that bright, zesty kick.
• Let the chicken rest: After baking, allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain moisture, ensuring every bite is juicy and tender.
• Adjust seasoning: If you love a bit of heat, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for an extra kick!
• Experiment with herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can be added before baking for additional flavors that pair beautifully with lemon.
• Use a meat thermometer: For perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches 165°F. This guarantees it’s safe to eat while keeping it juicy.

How to Serve Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken Breast Recipe

Serving this Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken is all about presentation and complementing flavors. Here are some ideas to make your meal truly special!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Lemon slices: Placing a few lemon slices around the chicken not only looks inviting but also lets diners squeeze more lemon if they desire.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious touch and its vibrant green contrasts beautifully against the chicken.
• Quinoa salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette makes a filling side that complements the zesty chicken perfectly.
• Garlic mashed cauliflower: For a low-carb option, serve creamy garlic mashed cauliflower. It’s smooth and rich while being a healthier alternative to traditional mashed potatoes.
• Roasted sweet potatoes: The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes balances the tangy lemon pepper flavor, making for a delightful pairing.

Now you’re all set to impress your family and friends with this delightful Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken! Enjoy every juicy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken Breast Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious chicken.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy your leftovers within 3-4 days for the best flavor and freshness.
• If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing!

Freezing

• Allow the baked chicken to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each piece in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Just remember to label your bags with the date!

Reheating

• For best results, reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F until warmed through (about 15-20 minutes).
• You can also use the microwave; just cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.
• If reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

How do I make Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken Breast Recipe more flavorful?

To enhance the flavors of your Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken Breast Recipe, consider marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes before baking. You can add herbs like thyme or rosemary for additional depth.

Can I use other seasonings in Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken Breast Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different spices such as Italian seasoning or smoked paprika. This gives you a chance to customize your dish according to your taste preferences.

Is Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken Breast Recipe healthy?

Yes! This recipe is low-carb and gluten-free, making it a healthy option for any meal. With only 170 calories per serving, it’s perfect for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

What sides go well with Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken Breast Recipe?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh garden salad. These sides complement the lemony flavors beautifully!

Can I bake Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken Breast Recipe on high heat?

While you can bake chicken at higher temperatures, cooking at 350°F allows for even cooking and juiciness. Higher heats may cause the outside to cook too quickly before the inside reaches a safe temperature.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken Breast Recipe becomes a staple in your kitchen! Its simplicity and bright flavors make it a fantastic choice for both busy weeknights and special occasions. Enjoy experimenting with different sides and seasonings, and remember: cooking should be fun! Happy baking!