🍋 Lemon and Pepper Chicken (Juicy, Zesty & Easy)

Lemon and Pepper Chicken is a quick and flavorful dish that combines the bright zestiness of fresh lemon with the subtle heat of cracked black pepper. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this simple recipe requires minimal ingredients but delivers bold, refreshing flavors. Whether grilled, pan-seared, or baked, this versatile chicken dish pairs beautifully with salads, roasted veggies, or steamed rice.

Prep Time 10 mins

Cook Time 15 mins

Total Time 25 mins

Difficulty: Beginner

Servings: 4

Estimated Cost: 8

Calories: 280 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Tender and juicy Lemon and Pepper Chicken made with simple pantry ingredients. This dish is marinated in fresh lemon juice, zesty lemon zest, cracked black pepper, garlic, and olive oil, then cooked to perfection for a light, bright, and flavorful meal.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 and Zest juice of large lemon
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon freshly cracked black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
Lemon slices for garnish
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1
1. Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, cracked black pepper, and salt.
2
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken in a shallow dish or zip-lock bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s fully coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
3
3. Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for 6-7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
4
4. Rest and Garnish: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh parsley.
5
5. Serve: Serve hot with roasted vegetables, salad, or steamed rice.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Amount Per Serving
Calories 280kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 12g19%
Saturated Fat 2g10%
Cholesterol 85mg29%
Sodium 450mg19%
Potassium 360mg11%
Total Carbohydrate 3g1%
Dietary Fiber 1g4%
Sugars 1g
Protein 38g76%

Calcium 15 mg
Iron 1 mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

📝 Storage Notes:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Suitable for meal prep and can be frozen for up to 1 month.

🍽️ Serving Tips:

Pair with a fresh garden salad, roasted potatoes, or steamed broccoli.
Can also be sliced and added to wraps, pasta, or sandwiches.
Add an extra squeeze of lemon before serving for a flavor boost.

Keywords: lemon and pepper chicken, lemon chicken recipe, easy chicken dinner, low-carb chicken, healthy chicken recipes