If you’re a fan of flavorful and juicy chicken, then lemon pepper chicken is a dish you must try! This delightful combination of tangy lemon and zesty pepper adds a burst of flavor that will leave your taste buds craving for more. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of creating this mouthwatering dish.
To start off, gather the following ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 lemons
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 2 teaspoons of freshly ground black pepper
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the process:
Step 1: Preparing the Lemon Pepper Marinade
In a small bowl, combine the juice of both lemons and the olive oil. Mix well to form a smooth marinade. Lemon juice will not only infuse the chicken with a bright citrus flavor, but it will also act as a tenderizer, making the chicken even more succulent.
Step 2: Seasoning the Chicken
Using a sharp knife, make a few shallow cuts on both sides of each chicken breast. This will allow the marinade to penetrate deeper and enhance the taste. Sprinkle the salt, pepper, garlic powder, dried thyme, and dried rosemary evenly over the chicken breasts. Massage the seasonings well into the chicken, ensuring they coat every inch.
Step 3: Marinating the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour the lemon and olive oil marinade over them. Make sure the marinade covers all sides of the chicken. For maximum flavor, cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight if time allows. This will give the chicken ample time to absorb all the wonderful flavors.
Step 4: Cooking the Chicken
Preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off any excess liquid, and place it on the preheated grill. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts, so always check for doneness using a meat thermometer.
Step 5: Resting and Serving
Once the chicken reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender and juicy chicken. Slice the chicken breasts diagonally into thin strips and serve them with a side of your choice. Lemon pepper chicken pairs perfectly with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or even a bowl of rice.
And there you have it! A flavorsome and aromatic lemon pepper chicken made from scratch. This easy step-by-step guide will help you recreate this delicious dish with minimal effort. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your grill, and get ready to savor this tantalizing gastronomic experience.