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Perfect Zesty Lemon Pepper Chicken Dinner – Easy 20-Minute Recipe

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This quick and easy lemon pepper chicken dinner is made with simple ingredients like chicken thighs, fresh lemon, and cracked black pepper. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights and delivers a golden, peppery crust with a bright, lemony pan sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 medium fresh lemon (zest and juice)
  • 1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns, coarsely cracked
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (2 for cooking, 1 for sauce)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • Salt, to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt. In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon cracked black pepper and lemon zest. Rub mixture all over chicken and let sit for 5 minutes.
  2. Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter; swirl until melted and foamy.
  3. Place chicken in the skillet, presentation-side down, without overcrowding. Cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until deep golden brown.
  4. Flip chicken using tongs. Add minced garlic to the pan and cook for another 4-5 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
  5. Remove chicken to a plate and tent with foil. Reduce heat to medium-low. Add remaining 1 tablespoon butter, then pour in chicken broth and juice of half a lemon. Scrape up browned bits and simmer 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  6. Return chicken to skillet, spoon sauce over top, and cook 1 minute. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

Pat chicken dry for best sear. Use freshly cracked pepper for maximum flavor. Don’t skip the pan sauce—it’s where the flavor lives. Let chicken rest a few minutes before serving. For a creamier version, stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream with the sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon pepper chicken, easy chicken dinner, 20-minute recipe, weeknight dinner, chicken thighs, cast iron skillet

Find it online: https://emacrave.com/perfect-zesty-lemon-pepper-chicken-dinner-easy-20-minute-recipe/