These Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken Breasts are the perfect balance of tangy lemon zest and savory spices, creating a flavorful and aromatic meal that’s both satisfying and healthy. The crispy golden skin adds a perfect crunch, making each bite a delight. It’s an easy weeknight dinner that’s quick to prepare but bursting with flavor.
Perfectly juicy and tender, this dish is ideal for pairing with a fresh side salad, roasted vegetables, or even over a bed of rice. The simplicity of the seasoning lets the chicken shine, while the lemon and pepper bring out an irresistible depth of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 teaspoon lemon zest
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2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1 teaspoon salt
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Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
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In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, oregano, and salt. Stir until fully combined.
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Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush both sides of the chicken breasts with the lemon pepper mixture.
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Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
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Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 230 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Why Choose Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken Breast?
When it comes to quick and easy dinner ideas, chicken breasts are a go-to choice for many home cooks. Chicken breasts are lean, versatile, and absorb flavors well, making them an ideal canvas for a variety of seasonings and marinades. Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken Breast takes these qualities to the next level by pairing them with the bright, refreshing taste of lemon and the pungent kick of pepper.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a flavorful and juicy chicken dinner that’s guaranteed to impress. The addition of lemon brings a refreshing acidity that balances the savory depth of the spices, making each bite a delightful combination of flavors. Furthermore, this dish is baked in the oven, which allows the chicken to cook evenly, keeping it moist and tender on the inside while achieving a crispy, golden exterior.
Health Benefits of Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken Breast
Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken Breast is not only delicious but also healthy. Chicken breasts are an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle building and repair. They’re also low in fat and calories, making them a great option for anyone looking to maintain or lose weight.
Lemon is another health booster in this dish. It’s a rich source of vitamin C, an antioxidant that helps boost the immune system, promotes healthy skin, and aids in the absorption of iron. The citrusy zing from lemon can also help improve digestion, making this recipe both a flavorful and health-conscious choice.
Pepper, the other key ingredient in this dish, has its own health benefits. Black pepper is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can help improve digestion and stimulate the production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach. It also contains piperine, a compound that has been shown to increase the bioavailability of nutrients, meaning you’ll absorb more of the good stuff from your food.
How to Serve Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken Breast
One of the best aspects of Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken Breast is its versatility. It pairs wonderfully with a wide variety of side dishes, making it easy to customize to your taste or dietary preferences. Whether you prefer a light, fresh salad or a hearty serving of roasted vegetables, this chicken dish can complement any meal.
For a low-carb option, serve the chicken with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables such as broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini. The freshness of the vegetables will balance the richness of the chicken, creating a well-rounded and nutritious meal.
If you’re looking for something heartier, consider pairing the chicken with a side of quinoa, brown rice, or mashed sweet potatoes. These complex carbohydrates will help keep you full and satisfied while adding additional layers of flavor to the meal.
For a more indulgent twist, you can also serve the Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken Breast alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a serving of pasta with a light garlic butter sauce. The versatility of this dish makes it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual dinner or a more elaborate family gathering.
Tips for Perfect Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken Breast
While this recipe is simple, a few key tips can help ensure that your Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken Breast turns out perfectly every time.
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Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the best option for this recipe as they cook quickly and evenly. You can also use bone-in chicken breasts, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
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Pound the chicken breasts: For even cooking, it’s a good idea to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before baking. This helps them cook uniformly and ensures they stay tender and juicy.
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Don’t overcook the chicken: The key to juicy chicken is avoiding overcooking it. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, check that the juices run clear and not pink.
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Let the chicken rest: Once the chicken is done baking, let it rest for a few minutes before cutting into it. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the chicken remains moist and flavorful.
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Experiment with seasonings: While the lemon and pepper are the stars of the dish, feel free to experiment with other seasonings or herbs. A touch of thyme, rosemary, or paprika can add even more depth to the flavor profile.
Meal Prep with Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken Breast
Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken Breast is also an excellent option for meal prep. You can easily make a large batch of chicken breasts at once and store them in the fridge for up to 4 days. This makes it perfect for preparing lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.
To store the chicken, simply place it in an airtight container once it has cooled. You can enjoy it as-is or chop it up to use in salads, wraps, or grain bowls. It also makes for a delicious topping for pasta or pizza, adding a burst of flavor to your favorite dishes.
Conclusion: Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken Breast is an easy, flavorful, and healthy dish that can be enjoyed by everyone. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or looking for a simple yet satisfying dinner, this recipe is a great choice. The combination of zesty lemon, aromatic herbs, and pepper creates a delightful balance of flavors that will leave you coming back for more.
This dish is perfect for those who want a quick meal without sacrificing taste or nutrition. It’s also highly versatile, allowing you to pair it with a variety of sides to suit your mood or dietary needs. Best of all, it’s easy to prepare, making it an excellent option for both beginner cooks and experienced chefs alike.
Give this recipe a try, and you’ll find that Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken Breast quickly becomes a staple in your weekly dinner rotation. It’s simple, delicious, and will impress everyone at the table with its bright and bold flavors.