How to Make Lemon Pepper Chicken: Minsa Cooking’s Recipe
Lemon Pepper Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the tanginess of lemon with the zesty kick of black pepper. Minsa Cooking’s recipe delivers a juicy and flavorful chicken that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a delicious and satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
- Chicken Breasts: 4 pieces (about 1 pound)
- Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons
- Lemon Zest: 1 teaspoon
- Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Garlic Powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Onion Powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Fresh Parsley: chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken
- Pound the Chicken: If the chicken breasts are thick, gently pound them to an even thickness to ensure even cooking. Place the chicken between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper and use a meat mallet to pound them.
Marinate the Chicken
- Mix the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine lemon juice, lemon zest, black pepper, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Coat the Chicken: Rub the marinade mixture all over the chicken breasts, making sure they are well coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15-30 minutes. For more intense flavor, marinate for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
Cook the Chicken
- Heat the Oil: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
Serve
- Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve the Lemon Pepper Chicken with your favorite sides, such as steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Perfect Lemon Pepper Chicken:
- Marination Time: For the best flavor, allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but no more than 2 hours.
- Pan Temperature: Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken to get a nice sear and lock in the flavors.
- Resting Time: Letting the chicken rest before slicing helps keep it juicy and tender.
Minsa Cooking’s Lemon Pepper Chicken recipe offers a simple yet delicious way to enjoy a flavorful chicken dish. With its tangy lemon and spicy pepper combination, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
