Description
These juicy Lemon Pepper Chicken Breasts are the perfect go-to for weeknight dinners. Infused with zesty lemon, freshly ground pepper, and garlic, they’re pan-seared to perfection in under 30 minutes. Serve with roasted veggies, salad, or pasta for a complete meal!
Ingredients
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon coarse black pepper
½ teaspoon salt
Fresh parsley or thyme (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Prep the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. If thick, pound them slightly to ensure even cooking.Season:
In a small bowl, combine lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture all over the chicken breasts.Sear:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temp: 165°F / 74°C).Rest:
Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.Garnish & Serve:
Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or thyme, and serve warm with your favorite sides.
Notes
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the lemon-pepper mix for 15–30 minutes before cooking.
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted potatoes, garlic green beans, or a light cucumber salad.
Double the recipe and slice leftovers for salads or wraps!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Easy Dinner Ideas
- Method: Pan-seared
- Cuisine: American