Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken cutlets with a rich and tangy lemon cream sauce. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also versatile enough to impress guests or satisfy a family on a busy weeknight. With bright citrus notes and savory garlic flavor, this meal stands out as a comforting yet elegant option.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• Chicken Cutlets
• Seasonings
• Cooking Fat
• Aromatics
• Sauce Ingredients
• Garnishes
• How to Make Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken
• Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
• Step 2: Cook the Chicken
• Step 3: Make the Sauce
• Step 4: Combine Ingredients for Sauce
• Step 5: Finish Cooking Chicken in Sauce
• Step 6: Serve Your Dish
• How to Serve Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken
• With Rice
• Over Pasta
• With Vegetables
• On a 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
• Can I use boneless thighs instead of breasts?
• What can I serve with Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken?
• How do I customize this recipe?
• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy nights.
• One-Pan Wonder: With minimal cleanup required, you can enjoy more time with loved ones after dinner.
• Flavorful Sauce: The creamy lemon sauce adds a burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with the chicken.
• Versatile Pairing: Serve it with rice, pasta, or veggies to make a complete meal that suits any taste.
• Impressive Presentation: Garnished with fresh herbs and lemon slices, this dish looks as good as it tastes.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Essential for cooking the chicken evenly and creating the creamy sauce in one pan.
• Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly, ensuring no lumps in your sauce.

Ingredients

Chicken Cutlets

• 2 large chicken breasts (about 2 pounds total), sliced in half lengthwise to create 4 thin chicken cutlets

Seasonings

• Kosher salt, to taste
• Coarsely ground pepper, to taste

Cooking Fat

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons butter

Aromatics

• 1 small shallot, minced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced

Sauce Ingredients

• 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

Garnishes

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

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. Avoid adding 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.
1. Add the chicken cutlets.
2. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
3. If needed, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.
4. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set aside to rest.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Reduce heat to medium-low and add butter to the skillet.
1. Once melted, sauté minced shallot for 1-2 minutes until softened.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Sprinkle flour into the pan, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes to cook out raw flour taste.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients for Sauce

Pour in chicken broth while increasing heat to medium.
1. Scrape up browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
2. Stir in half and half; whisk until smooth.
3. Bring sauce to a boil then reduce heat; let simmer until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Finish Cooking Chicken in Sauce

Stir fresh lemon juice and lemon pepper seasoning into the sauce; taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
1. Return cooked chicken along with any accumulated juices back into the skillet.
2. Nestle cutlets into sauce; add lemon slices.
3. Allow chicken to heat through before serving.

Step 6: Serve Your Dish

Garnish your creamy lemon pepper skillet chicken with fresh parsley or basil. Sprinkle additional lemon pepper seasoning if desired. Serve warm alongside your favorite sides!

Enjoy this delightful meal that showcases how simple ingredients can come together for an unforgettable dining experience!

How to Serve Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving options. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

With Rice

• Fluffy Jasmine Rice – A perfect base that absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Cilantro Lime Rice – Adds a refreshing twist with zesty flavors that complement the chicken.

Over Pasta

• Linguine – The long strands of pasta soak up the tangy cream sauce for a satisfying meal.
• Penne – Its tubular shape holds onto the sauce, delivering flavor in every bite.

With Vegetables

• Roasted Asparagus – Tender and slightly charred, this adds a nice crunch to your plate.
• Sautéed Spinach – Lightly seasoned spinach offers a nutritious and colorful contrast.

On a Salad

• Mixed Greens – Serve the chicken on a bed of fresh greens, drizzled with lemon vinaigrette for added brightness.
• Caesar Salad – Pairing with this classic salad brings together rich flavors for a hearty dish.

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How to Perfect Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

For an outstanding Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken, follow these tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Use thin cutlets – Thin chicken cutlets cook evenly and quickly, ensuring tenderness.
• Don’t rush the browning – Allow the chicken to develop a golden crust by cooking it undisturbed for several minutes.
• Adjust seasoning wisely – Taste your sauce before serving and tweak it with more lemon or pepper as needed.
• Add herbs for freshness – Fresh parsley or basil not only enhances flavor but also adds visual appeal to your dish.
• Serve immediately – For the best texture and flavor, serve the dish right after cooking while it’s still warm and creamy.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

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

1. Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce; try using crusty baguettes.
2. Quinoa Salad – A healthy option that adds texture and nutrients; toss with cucumbers and tomatoes.
3. Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes complement the lemon sauce beautifully; consider adding garlic for extra flavor.
4. Grilled Zucchini – Offers a light, smoky flavor that balances richness; simply season and grill until tender.
5. Coleslaw – A crunchy slaw provides freshness and contrasts nicely with the warm chicken.
6. Steamed Broccoli – Bright green broccoli is nutritious and visually appealing; lightly steam it to retain its vibrant color.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the chicken adequately can lead to bland flavors. Always season both sides of the chicken cutlets before cooking.

• Overcrowding the skillet: Cooking too many chicken cutlets at once can cause steaming rather than browning. Work in batches if necessary for optimal cooking.

• Adding lemon too early: Putting lemon juice in the sauce too soon can lead to bitterness. Wait until the sauce is ready to add it for a fresh, bright flavor.

• Not letting the sauce thicken: Rushing the thickening process may result in a watery sauce. Allow enough time for the sauce to simmer and reach a creamy consistency.

• Ignoring resting time: Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking will release juices. Let it rest for a few minutes to keep it tender and juicy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

• Freeze in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.

• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.

• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of broth or cream and gently reheat until warm throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken:

Can I use boneless thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless thighs work well and provide extra moisture and flavor.

What can I serve with Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables that soak up the delicious sauce.

How do I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or asparagus during cooking for added nutrition and flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well and can be enjoyed throughout the week for quick lunches or dinners.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken is not only delightful but also versatile. Its rich flavor makes it perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and elegant gatherings. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or sides. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!