Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken is a delightful one-pan meal that brings together tender chicken cutlets and a luscious lemon cream sauce. This dish offers the perfect balance of tangy citrus, savory garlic, and aromatic pepper, making it ideal for both quick weeknight dinners and special occasions. Its simplicity in preparation and elegant presentation will impress your family and guests alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This creamy lemon pepper skillet chicken can be ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• One-Pan Wonder: With everything cooked in a single skillet, cleanup is a breeze, leaving you more time to enjoy your meal.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of lemon juice, garlic, and butter creates a rich flavor profile that elevates the chicken to new heights.
• Versatile Pairing Options: Serve with rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables to complement the creamy sauce perfectly.
• Elegant Presentation: Garnished with fresh herbs and lemon slices, this dish looks as good as it tastes.

Tools and Preparation

To make Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken successfully, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Using the right equipment ensures that your cooking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Provides ample space for cooking the chicken evenly without overcrowding.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate ingredient amounts for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 large chicken breasts (about 2 pounds total), sliced in half lengthwise to create 4 thin chicken cutlets
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Coarsely ground pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 small shallot, minced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup half and half
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (from 1-2 lemons)
• 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning

For Garnish

• Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
• Lemon slices, for garnish

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How to Make Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken cutlets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with kosher salt and coarsely ground pepper. Avoid adding the lemon pepper seasoning at this stage to prevent burning during browning.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken cutlets and cook for 5-7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If necessary, cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside to rest.

Step 3: Make the Sauce Base

Reduce heat to medium-low and add the butter to the skillet. Once melted, sauté the minced shallot for 1-2 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

Sprinkle flour into the pan, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes to cook out any raw flour taste. Pour in chicken broth while increasing heat to medium; scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

Step 5: Create Creamy Texture

Stir in half and half while whisking until smooth. Bring sauce to a boil; then reduce heat and let it simmer until slightly thickened.

Step 6: Final Touches

Stir in fresh lemon juice and lemon pepper seasoning. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Return cooked chicken along with any accumulated juices back into the skillet. Nestle cutlets into sauce; add lemon slices to heat through.

Step 7: Serve Your Dish

Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and sprinkle with additional lemon pepper seasoning if desired. Serve warm alongside your choice of side dishes.

How to Serve Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. You can elevate your dining experience with various serving suggestions that complement its rich flavors.

With Rice

• White Rice: A classic choice, fluffy white rice absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Brown Rice: For a healthier option, brown rice adds a nutty flavor and chewy texture.
• Lemon Herb Rice: Infuse your rice with lemon zest and herbs for an extra citrus kick.

With Pasta

• Linguine: Thin noodles pair well with the creamy sauce, making each bite delightful.
• Farfalle: These bow-tie pasta shapes hold onto the sauce perfectly, creating a fun presentation.
• Penne: Hollow tubes of penne capture the lemon cream sauce in every bite.

With Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and pairs nicely with the lemon flavor.
• Roasted Asparagus: The earthy taste of asparagus complements the tangy sauce beautifully.
• Mixed Salad: A fresh salad provides a crisp contrast to the rich chicken dish.

How to Perfect Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

To ensure your Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken turns out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemons and herbs enhance the flavor significantly compared to dried alternatives.
• Cook Chicken Evenly: Ensure uniform thickness by slicing chicken breasts evenly for consistent cooking.
• Don’t Rush the Sauce: Allowing time for the sauce to thicken helps achieve a luscious consistency without burning flour.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning gradually during cooking for optimal flavor balance.
• Let It Rest: Allow cooked chicken to rest before slicing; this keeps it juicy and tender.
• Garnish Generously: Fresh parsley or basil not only adds color but also brightens up the dish’s flavor profile.

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Best Side Dishes for Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side that complements the chicken’s richness.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with veggies adds a nutritious crunch and balances the meal’s creaminess.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts provide a lovely texture contrast while adding earthy flavors.
4. Zucchini Noodles: Light and fresh, zucchini noodles offer a low-carb alternative that soaks up the lemon cream sauce well.
5. Cauliflower Rice: This low-calorie option allows you to enjoy the creamy sauce in a healthier format without sacrificing taste.
6. Couscous Pilaf: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs makes an elegant side that pairs perfectly with flavorful meals.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken, it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can impact the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Skipping seasoning: Many people forget to season the chicken properly. Always season both sides with salt and pepper before cooking for the best flavor.
• Overcrowding the pan: Cooking too many cutlets at once can lead to uneven cooking. Cook in batches to ensure each piece gets the right amount of heat.
• Adding lemon too early: Introducing lemon juice too soon can result in a burnt taste. Wait until the sauce is nearly done to add it for a fresh flavor.
• Not letting the sauce thicken: Rushing through the sauce-making process may leave you with a runny consistency. Allow it to simmer until it’s nicely thickened.
• Neglecting garnishes: Skipping fresh herbs or lemon slices can make your dish look less appealing. Always finish with a garnish for color and freshness.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

• Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to maintain creaminess.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken?

Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken is a one-pan dish featuring tender chicken cutlets cooked in a tangy lemon cream sauce, perfect for quick meals.

How long does it take to make this dish?

This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. This ensures even cooking and better texture.

What can I serve with Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken?

Serve with rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables that can soak up the delicious creamy sauce.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms into the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile and quick to prepare. With its bright flavors, this dish impresses guests while being simple enough for any weeknight dinner. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite vegetables or herbs!

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