Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together the zesty flavor of lemon and the warmth of creamy sauce. This one-pan meal is perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions with guests. The combination of tender chicken cutlets and a rich lemon cream sauce creates a comforting yet refreshing experience for your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• One-Pan Cooking: Save time on cleanup with this simple one-pan meal that minimizes dishwashing.
• Flavorful Sauce: The creamy lemon sauce adds a burst of fresh flavor, elevating the chicken to new heights.
• Versatile Pairings: Serve with rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal that suits any palate.
• Elegant Presentation: Garnished with fresh herbs and lemon slices, this dish looks as good as it tastes.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience. With the right equipment at hand, making Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken will be effortless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Provides ample space for browning chicken and simmering the creamy sauce without overcrowding.
• Whisk: Essential for mixing ingredients smoothly, especially when combining liquids for the sauce.

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

• 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: Brown the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken cutlets:
1. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side.
2. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
3. If necessary, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.
4. Remove from 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 shallots for 1-2 minutes until softened.
2. Add minced garlic; cook for an additional minute.
3. Sprinkle flour into the pan; stir constantly for about 2 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

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

Step 5: Finish Off

Stir in fresh lemon juice and lemon pepper seasoning:
1. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
2. Return cooked chicken along with accumulated juices back into the skillet.
3. Add lemon slices; allow chicken to heat through.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley or basil:
1. Sprinkle additional lemon pepper seasoning if desired.
2. Serve warm and enjoy your Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken!

How to Serve Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and garnishes. Serving it with complementary items enhances the meal, making it even more enjoyable for everyone at the table.

With Fresh Herbs

• Parsley or Basil: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil adds color and freshness to your dish.
• Chives: Chopped chives provide a mild onion flavor that perfectly complements the creamy sauce.

Over a Bed of Greens

• Spinach Salad: Serve on a bed of fresh spinach tossed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Mixed Greens: A simple mix of greens can add crunch and lightness to this rich dish.

Accompanied by Citrus

• Lemon Wedges: Add extra lemon wedges on the side for those who love an extra zing.
• Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest on top enhances the citrus flavor beautifully.

How to Perfect Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

Creating the perfect Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken involves a few key techniques. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Use Thin Cutlets: Thin chicken cutlets cook evenly and quickly, preventing dryness.
• Season Generously: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper; they enhance the chicken’s natural flavor.
• Control the Heat: Start with medium-high heat for browning, then lower it to simmer for sauce preparation for optimal results.
• Whisk Well: When adding half and half, whisk thoroughly to avoid lumps in your creamy sauce.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning during cooking for the best flavor balance in your dish.

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Best Side Dishes for Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

Choosing the right sides can elevate your Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic pair wonderfully with the lemon sauce.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Bright green asparagus adds a pop of color and a healthy crunch.
3. Simple Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf can soak up all that delicious lemon cream sauce.
4. Roasted Broccoli: Roasted broccoli provides a slightly charred flavor that contrasts nicely with the creamy chicken.
5. Pasta Aglio e Olio: This simple pasta dish seasoned with garlic and olive oil makes a perfect base for the chicken.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and tomatoes offers fresh textures and flavors alongside the rich chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning step: Forgetting to season the chicken cutlets can lead to bland flavors. Always season generously with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Overcrowding the skillet: If you place too many chicken cutlets in the pan, they may steam instead of brown. Cook in batches to ensure perfect browning.
• Not cooking the garlic properly: Burning garlic can result in a bitter taste. Sauté it just until fragrant and lightly golden for the best flavor.
• Adding lemon juice too early: Pouring in lemon juice before thickening the sauce can lead to curdling. Wait until after you’ve created a smooth sauce before adding it.
• Ignoring resting time for chicken: Cutting into the chicken right away can dry it out. Allowing it to rest helps retain moisture and improve texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

• Freeze in a sealed container or freezer bag.
• It’s best consumed within 1-2 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken?

Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken is a delicious dish made with tender chicken cutlets simmered in a rich lemon cream sauce, perfect for quick weeknight meals or special occasions.

How can I customize this recipe?

You can customize this dish by adding vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes, or adjusting the seasoning levels according to your preference.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, you can use boneless skinless chicken thighs for a juicier option. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

What should I serve with Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken?

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

How do I store leftovers of Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze them for longer preservation.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken is not only savory and satisfying but also versatile enough to adapt to your tastes. You can mix in your favorite veggies or adjust the seasonings as desired. This recipe makes for an elegant meal that’s quick enough for any weeknight dinner—give it a try today!