Description
This Lemon Pepper Chicken recipe delivers juicy, flavorful chicken breasts seared to perfection and smothered in a creamy, tangy lemon pepper sauce. Easy to make in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels special and satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 2 chicken breasts, cut in half lengthwise (4 thinner pieces)
- Salt, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter, divided
Sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 2/3 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create four thinner pieces. Lightly sprinkle them with salt, keeping in mind some lemon pepper blends already contain salt.
- Heat Skillet and Sear Chicken: Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat for a few minutes until hot. Add the chicken pieces and sear each side for 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Remove chicken and set aside on a plate.
- Make the Sauce Base: Add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the hot skillet and allow it to melt. Stir in the minced garlic and sprinkle the flour over it. Cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute, stirring occasionally to form a roux and eliminate the flour taste.
- Add Liquids and Seasoning: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and lemon pepper seasoning. Continue whisking for about a minute until the sauce thickens slightly and the flour is fully dissolved.
- Simmer Chicken in Sauce: Return the chicken to the skillet along with any juices from the plate. Reduce the heat to maintain a gentle bubble and cook for another 4-5 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the sauce is thickened to desired consistency. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve: Serve the lemon pepper chicken hot with the creamy sauce spooned over top immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- If you are sensitive to salt, use low sodium chicken broth and choose a low or no salt lemon pepper seasoning to control sodium levels.
- Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F for food safety.
- You can serve this chicken over rice, pasta, or with steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
