Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken is a delightful dish that combines savory chicken cutlets with a rich lemon cream sauce. This one-pan meal offers a perfect blend of comfort and elegance, making it suitable for both casual family dinners and special occasions. With its bright flavors and easy preparation, you’ll find this recipe to be a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken
• For the Sauce
• For Garnish
• How to Make Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken
• Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
• Step 2: Cook the Chicken
• Step 3: Make the Sauce Base
• Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
• Step 5: Finish the Dish
• Step 6: Garnish and Serve
• How to Serve Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken
• With Rice
• With Pasta
• With Vegetables
• With Salad
• How to Perfect Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken
• Best Side Dishes for Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken
• Reheating Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I make Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken healthier?
• Can I customize the flavors in Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken?
• What can I serve with Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken?
• Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
• How do I store leftover Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup is required since everything cooks in one skillet, giving you more time to relax.
• Flavorful Sauce: The creamy lemon pepper sauce elevates the dish with its tangy and savory notes.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Impressive Presentation: Garnished with fresh herbs and lemon slices, it looks as good as it tastes.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons
• Whisk
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Provides ample space for cooking chicken evenly while allowing the sauce to reduce properly.
• Whisk: Ensures a smooth consistency when mixing liquids and helps prevent clumps when adding flour.

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
• 3 tablespoons butter

For the Sauce

• 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 generously with kosher salt and coarsely ground pepper. Remember not to add lemon pepper seasoning at this point; it might burn during cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
1. Add the chicken cutlets.
2. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
3. If needed, cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding.
4. Once done, remove from pan and set aside to rest.

Step 3: Make the Sauce Base

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

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

Sprinkle flour into the pan while stirring constantly for about 2 minutes to eliminate any raw flour taste.
1. Pour in chicken broth while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
2. Stir in half and half until smooth.
3. Bring to a boil then reduce heat slightly; let simmer until thickened.

Step 5: Finish the Dish

Stir in fresh lemon juice and lemon pepper seasoning; taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.
1. Return cooked chicken along with any juices back into the skillet.
2. Nestle cutlets into sauce and add lemon slices.
3. Heat through before serving.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving warm. Sprinkle additional lemon pepper seasoning if desired for extra flavor!

How to Serve Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these serving suggestions will enhance the flavors of this delightful chicken dish.

With Rice

• Fluffy Jasmine Rice: This aromatic rice absorbs the lemon sauce beautifully, adding a fragrant touch to your plate.
• Garlic Butter Rice: Cook rice in garlic butter for an extra layer of flavor that complements the creamy sauce.

With Pasta

• Linguine: Toss cooked linguine in the creamy lemon sauce for a rich and satisfying meal.
• Penne: The ridges of penne pasta help catch the sauce, ensuring every bite is flavorful.

With Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and crunch while soaking up the lemony goodness.
• Roasted Asparagus: Drizzle with olive oil and roast until tender for a deliciously simple side.

With Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and parmesan create a classic pairing that balances the richness of the dish.
• Mixed Greens: A light vinaigrette on mixed greens provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy chicken.

How to Perfect Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

Getting your Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken just right makes all the difference. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve perfect results every time.

• Use Thin Cutlets: Thin chicken cutlets cook evenly and quickly, making preparation easier.
• Season Wisely: Add lemon pepper seasoning at the right time to maximize flavor without burning it during cooking.
• Monitor Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
• Adjust Sauce Thickness: If your sauce thickens too much, add broth or cream gradually while reheating.
• Garnish Generously: Fresh herbs like parsley or basil brighten up the dish visually and add fresh flavor.
• Serve Immediately: For best taste and texture, serve this dish right after cooking while it’s warm and creamy.

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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 fantastic options that complement its flavors perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery, garlic bread is perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce on your plate.
2. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed option that adds texture and can be flavored with lemon and herbs for harmony.
3. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort and absorb the rich lemon cream sauce well.
4. Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy chicken.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the tangy lemon flavors in the dish.
6. Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts bring a nutty flavor that complements the richness of the meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken cutlets too long can lead to dryness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C) for perfect juiciness.
• Skipping the Drying Step: Failing to pat the chicken dry can prevent a nice sear. Drying ensures better browning and flavor.
• Adding Seasoning Too Early: Adding lemon pepper seasoning at the start can lead to burning. Wait until after you’ve cooked the chicken before adding it to the sauce.
• Rushing the Sauce: A thick sauce requires time. Allow it to simmer gently; rushing can result in a thin consistency that lacks flavor.
• Neglecting Flavor Adjustments: Forgetting to taste and adjust seasoning can leave your dish bland. Always taste before serving and add salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Make sure the dish is completely cooled before sealing the container.

Freezing Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Consider portioning into smaller containers for easy thawing.

Reheating Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and reheat for 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe bowl for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium-low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken healthier?

You can use skinless chicken breasts and substitute half-and-half with low-fat milk or a dairy-free alternative.

Can I customize the flavors in Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition or switch up the herbs for different flavor profiles.

What can I serve with Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables, which soak up the creamy sauce beautifully.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and moisture. Just ensure they cook thoroughly.

How do I store leftover Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken?

Place leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken is not just delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion—from quick weeknight dinners to elegant gatherings. You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices according to your taste. Give it a try—you’ll love how simple yet satisfying it is!

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