Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe
This Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Juicy chicken breasts are seasoned with zesty lemon, cracked black pepper, and a hint of garlic, then baked to tender perfection.
Tender, juicy chicken infused with the fresh, citrusy zing of lemon and the bold, peppery kick of black pepper. This dish is versatile and pairs well with nearly any side, making it a go-to for quick, delicious dinners.
This recipe uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. It’s easy to prepare, healthy, and delivers a restaurant-quality flavor right from your oven.
Tools You’ll Need
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Basting brush
- Aluminum foil
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
- Lemon slices (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with foil for easier cleanup.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better.
3. Make the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and paprika. Mix well.
4. Season the Chicken:
Brush the marinade generously over both sides of the chicken breasts. Place them in the prepared baking dish and arrange lemon slices on top.
5. Bake the Chicken:
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Rest and Serve:
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite sides.
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Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe
Equipment
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Basting brush
- Aluminum foil
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 large lemon about 3 tablespoons
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika optional, for color
- Lemon slices for garnish
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with foil for easier cleanup.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better.
- Make the Marinade:
- In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and paprika. Mix well.
- Season the Chicken:
- Brush the marinade generously over both sides of the chicken breasts. Place them in the prepared baking dish and arrange lemon slices on top.
- Bake the Chicken:
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve:
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite sides.
Tips for Cooking
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for 30 minutes to 1 hour before baking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked without drying out.
- If you prefer crispier chicken, broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
- Pair this dish with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
This Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken is a crowd-pleaser that’s healthy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. It’s perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or even entertaining guests. The bright lemon flavor and hint of pepper make every bite refreshing and satisfying.
If you’re looking for a no-fuss recipe that’s bursting with flavor, this Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken is the one for you. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious, wholesome dish on the table in no time. Try it tonight and savor the zesty, peppery goodness!
