Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

Weeknight dinners just got a whole lot easier (and tastier!) with this Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken. Forget complicated recipes and endless cleanup – this one-pan wonder delivers juicy, flavorful chicken bathed in a creamy, zesty sauce in under 30 minutes. It’s the perfect balance of savory and bright, making it a crowd-pleaser for both casual weeknight meals and more special occasions. Imagine tender chicken breasts, perfectly coated in a vibrant lemon pepper sauce, served alongside fluffy rice or your favorite vegetables. This recipe is so simple, yet so incredibly satisfying, you’ll be making it again and again. Get ready to elevate your chicken game to a whole new level with this incredibly easy and delicious recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken Recipe

This Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights. It’s incredibly versatile, easy to customize, and requires minimal cleanup – a huge plus for anyone short on time or energy. But beyond the convenience, the flavor is truly exceptional. The creamy lemon pepper sauce is rich, tangy, and perfectly balances the savory chicken. Here are some more reasons why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:

• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your delicious meal!
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The creamy lemon pepper sauce is unbelievably delicious.
• Versatile: Serve it with rice, pasta, potatoes, or your favorite vegetables.
• Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable and readily available ingredients.
• Impressive Presentation: This dish looks as good as it tastes, perfect for impressing guests.

Why You Should Try This Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken Recipe

Are you looking for a delicious and easy chicken recipe that’s also healthy and satisfying? Look no further! This Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken is the perfect solution. It’s more than just a quick meal; it’s a culinary experience that will elevate your everyday cooking. Here’s why you should give it a try:

• Healthier Option: Compared to fried chicken, this skillet chicken is a healthier alternative.
• Flavor Profile: The combination of creamy, lemony, and peppery notes creates a harmonious and irresistible flavor.
• Ingredient Flexibility: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or herbs to create your own unique twist.
• Improves Cooking Skills: Mastering this simple recipe will boost your confidence in the kitchen.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Satisfying and Filling: The creamy sauce and juicy chicken are incredibly satisfying.
• Great for Beginners: This recipe is simple enough for novice cooks to master.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon pepper seasoning (or a mix of 1 tsp lemon zest, 1 tsp black pepper, ½ tsp garlic powder)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best)
• 1 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder)
• Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
• Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese for garnish

Utensils:

• Large skillet (cast iron is ideal)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Whisk
• Serving dish

Detailed Recipe Steps for Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces. This ensures even cooking and faster cooking time.
2. Season the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with olive oil, lemon pepper seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly. Ensure the chicken is well-seasoned for maximum flavor.
3. Sear the Chicken: Heat the skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through. **Don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary.**
4. Sauté Garlic: Once the chicken is browned, remove it from the skillet and set aside. Add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
5. Create the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to slightly reduce.
6. Add Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and continue to simmer for another 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. You may want to add more lemon pepper, salt, or black pepper.
7. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly in the creamy lemon pepper sauce.
8. Serve: Serve immediately over rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or your favorite vegetables. Garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese (optional).

Tips and Variations for Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be easily adapted to your preferences. Here are a few tips and variations to help you create your perfect Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken:

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
• Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano.
• Vegetable additions: Add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, onions, broccoli, or mushrooms to the skillet along with the chicken.
• Cream substitutes: For a lighter version, use half-and-half or even milk instead of heavy cream. You might need to simmer a bit longer to thicken the sauce.
• Gluten-Free Option: Ensure your lemon pepper seasoning is gluten-free. Many brands contain gluten.
• Avoid overcooking: Overcooked chicken will be dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding the pan will prevent the chicken from browning properly. Cook in batches if necessary.

Nutritional Values and Benefits of Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

This Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken recipe provides a balanced meal with several nutritional benefits. While the exact nutritional content will vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes, here’s a general overview:

This dish is a good source of protein from the chicken, which is essential for building and repairing tissues. Chicken is also a good source of essential nutrients like niacin and selenium. Lemon is rich in Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports the immune system. The healthy fats in the heavy cream provide energy and contribute to hormone production. Remember that this recipe uses less fat compared to fried chicken or many other creamy chicken recipes. You can further reduce the fat content by using a lower-fat cream alternative. For more detailed nutritional information, you can use a nutritional calculator based on your specific ingredients and portion sizes.

FAQ – Answers to Common Questions about Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about this recipe:

• Can I use bone-in chicken breasts? Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Bone-in chicken breasts take longer to cook.
• Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and reheat together before serving.
• What if my sauce is too thin? Simmer the sauce for a few more minutes, or whisk in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water to thicken it.
• What if my sauce is too thick? Add a tablespoon or two of chicken broth or milk to thin it out.
• Can I use different types of cream? Yes, you can use half-and-half or even milk instead of heavy cream, but the sauce will be slightly less rich and creamy.
• What are some side dishes that pair well with this chicken? Rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and quinoa are all excellent choices.
• Can I freeze this dish? Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before freezing.

Conclusion: Your New Favorite Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken Recipe

This Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken recipe is a true winner – simple, delicious, and satisfying. The vibrant lemon pepper sauce complements the juicy chicken perfectly, making it a meal everyone will enjoy. From quick weeknight dinners to impressing guests, this recipe delivers every time. We hope you loved this recipe as much as we do. Don’t forget to share your experience with us in the comments below! Let us know how you customized it and what you served it with. And, if you’re looking for more delicious recipes, check out our collection of easy weeknight meals on OviaRecipes. Happy cooking!

For more information about lemon, you can visit the Wikipedia page on lemons.