Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken cutlets with a rich lemon cream sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or elegant gatherings, this recipe brings together bright citrus flavors and savory garlic, making it both comforting and refreshing. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this one-pan meal is sure to impress.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This creamy lemon pepper skillet chicken takes just 30 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• One-Pan Wonder: With everything cooked in one skillet, cleanup is a breeze, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the hassle.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of lemon juice, garlic, and butter creates a deliciously rich sauce that elevates the chicken to new heights.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it over rice, pasta, or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal that suits any occasion.
• Family-Friendly: The creamy texture and zesty flavor are loved by both kids and adults alike, making it a great choice for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure a smooth experience. Having the right equipment makes preparing the creamy lemon pepper skillet chicken easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A spacious skillet ensures even cooking of the chicken cutlets without overcrowding.
• Whisk: Using a whisk helps to achieve a smooth consistency when mixing the sauce ingredients.

Ingredients

To create this mouthwatering creamy lemon pepper skillet chicken, you’ll need the following 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 Cutlets

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 olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken cutlets in batches if necessary. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once cooked through, remove them from the pan and let them rest.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Lower the heat to medium-low and add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, sauté minced shallots for about 1-2 minutes until softened. Then add minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

Sprinkle flour into the pan while stirring constantly for about 2 minutes. Pour in low-sodium chicken broth while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Stir in half and half and bring it to a boil before reducing heat to simmer until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Add Flavorings

Stir in fresh lemon juice and lemon pepper seasoning. Taste your sauce and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Return cooked chicken cutlets along with their juices back into the skillet. Nestle them into the sauce while adding lemon slices. Allow everything to heat through together.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once heated through, garnish with fresh parsley or basil. If desired, sprinkle additional lemon pepper seasoning before serving warm.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious creamy lemon pepper skillet chicken!

How to Serve Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken is versatile and can be paired with various sides to enhance your meal. Whether you want a refreshing salad or a hearty grain, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dish.

Fresh Garden Salad

• Crisp lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers make a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken.

Garlic Bread

• Buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.

Steamed Asparagus

• Lightly steamed asparagus adds a touch of elegance and freshness to your plate.

Quinoa Pilaf

• A nutty quinoa pilaf complements the flavors while providing a healthy grain option.

Roasted Vegetables

• Mix seasonal veggies like carrots and bell peppers for a colorful side.

Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes work well with the lemon sauce, creating a comforting meal.

How to Perfect Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

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

• Use thin cutlets: Thin chicken cutlets cook evenly and quickly, ensuring they remain juicy.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cooking in batches helps achieve a nice golden-brown crust on the chicken.
• Whisk constantly: When adding flour, whisk constantly to avoid clumps and ensure a smooth sauce.
• Adjust seasoning: Always taste your sauce before serving; it may need more salt or lemon juice.
• Garnish generously: Fresh herbs like parsley or basil add color and flavor that brightens the dish.
• Serve immediately: For the best texture and flavor, serve right after cooking while everything is warm.

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Best Side Dishes for Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken can enhance your overall dining experience. Here are some delicious options that complement the flavors of this dish perfectly.

1. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf absorbs the creamy lemon sauce beautifully.
2. Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad with vegetables provides a refreshing contrast.
3. Couscous: Quick-cooking couscous is perfect for soaking up extra sauce while adding texture.
4. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, sautéed zucchini noodles offer a fresh twist.
5. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the tangy lemon flavors.
6. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds texture and balances the richness of the chicken.
7. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn enhances summertime vibes while being easy to prepare.
8. Cauliflower Rice: A healthy alternative that will soak up all those delicious sauces while remaining light on calories.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes you might encounter:

• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) for perfect tenderness.
• Skipping the resting time: Not allowing the chicken to rest can lead to loss of juices. Let it sit after cooking for a few minutes.
• Adding lemon seasoning too early: Adding lemon pepper seasoning at the start can burn it. Wait until after browning the chicken for optimal flavor.
• Using thick chicken breasts: Thick cutlets may cook unevenly. Slice the breasts thinly to ensure even cooking.
• Neglecting to scrape the pan: Failing to deglaze the skillet can result in missed flavor. Always scrape up browned bits when adding liquids.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

• Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Use medium power and heat in 1-minute increments until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low, adding a splash of broth if needed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other types of meat?

You can substitute turkey or pork cutlets for this recipe, but adjust cooking times accordingly.

What side dishes pair well with this dish?

Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables that can soak up the sauce.

How can I customize the sauce?

Feel free to add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.

Can I use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled?

Yes, fresh lemon juice enhances the dish’s flavor and is highly recommended over bottled varieties.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and makes great leftovers, perfect for meal prepping during the week.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken stands out as a delightful one-pan meal that’s both quick and elegant. Its creamy sauce and zesty flavor make it appealing for any occasion. You can customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings. Give it a try; it’s bound to become a new favorite!

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