Save Succulent chicken breasts seasoned with zesty lemon and cracked black pepper are served over fluffy rice for a bright comforting meal. This dish offers a harmonious blend of fresh citrus and aromatic spices making it a family favorite any night of the week.
I remember the first time I made this lemon pepper chicken for my family everyone raved about the punchy citrus aroma that filled our kitchen. It instantly became a go-to for busy weeknights when we craved something both fresh and hearty.
Ingredients
- Chicken Breasts: 4 boneless skinless
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon
- Kosher Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Lemon Zest: Zest of 1 lemon
- Lemon Juice: Juice of 1 lemon
- Garlic: 2 cloves minced
- Rice: 1 cup long-grain white
- Low-Sodium Chicken Broth (or Water): 2 cups
- Unsalted Butter: 1 tablespoon
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Fresh Parsley (optional): 2 tablespoons chopped
- Lemon Slices (optional): For garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare Chicken:
- Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. In a small bowl mix olive oil black pepper salt lemon zest lemon juice and minced garlic.
- Season Chicken:
- Rub the mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Sear Chicken:
- Heat a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken breasts for 2 minutes per side until golden.
- Bake Chicken:
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15 minutes to 18 minutes or until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C).
- Rinse Rice:
- While the chicken bakes rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- Cook Rice:
- In a saucepan bring chicken broth (or water) and butter to a boil. Add the rice and salt stir once cover and reduce heat to low. Cook for 15 minutes then remove from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
- Serve:
- Serve the chicken breasts over the rice. Garnish with parsley and lemon slices if desired.
Save Gathering around the table with my family to enjoy this meal always sparks conversation and laughter thanks to the uplifting flavors and inviting aroma. It's a simple recipe that creates memorable moments with every bite.
Required Tools
You'll need a large ovenproof skillet small mixing bowl saucepan with lid measuring cups and spoons knife and cutting board for easy preparation.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy from the butter. Dish remains gluten-free with the right chicken broth selection—read labels to verify ingredients.
Nutritional Information
Each serving includes 340 calories 9 g fat 32 g carbohydrates and 32 g protein making it a balanced main course choice for a health-conscious dinner.
Save This refreshing lemon pepper chicken with rice is perfect for busy nights or relaxed weekend dinners. Enjoy a burst of flavor in every bite and watch it become a family favorite.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I get the chicken tender and juicy?
Pat the chicken dry before seasoning and searing it to seal in juices. Baking at a moderate temperature until the internal temperature reaches 165°F ensures tenderness.
- → Can I prepare the lemon pepper mixture in advance?
Yes, marinating the chicken in the lemon pepper mixture for up to 2 hours enhances flavor and tenderness.
- → What type of rice works best for this dish?
Long-grain white rice yields a fluffy texture, but brown rice can be used with adjusted cooking times.
- → How do I avoid overcooking the chicken?
Monitor the internal temperature with a meat thermometer, removing the chicken once it reaches 165°F for optimal juiciness.
- → What can I use instead of chicken broth for cooking the rice?
Water can substitute chicken broth, though broth adds richer flavor to the rice.