Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken cutlets and a luscious lemon cream sauce. This meal is perfect for any occasion, whether you re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant dish to impress guests. The vibrant flavors of lemon and garlic, combined with the creamy texture, make this recipe stand out.

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Why You ll Love This Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

This skillet chicken recipe offers numerous benefits that make it a must-try in your kitchen.

• Quick and Easy: This dish takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• One-Pan Wonder: With everything cooked in one skillet, cleanup is a breeze.
• Flavorful Sauce: The creamy lemon sauce is rich and tangy, perfectly complementing the chicken.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with rice, pasta, or vegetables for a complete meal.
• Impressive Presentation: It s elegant enough to serve at dinner parties or special occasions.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into cooking, gather the essential tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A spacious pan allows for even cooking of the chicken without overcrowding.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring and scraping the flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts when preparing your chicken cutlets.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for slicing ingredients without damaging countertops.

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 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. Add the chicken cutlets and cook:
1. Sear on each side for 5-7 minutes.
2. Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
3. If necessary, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.
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 minced shallot for 1-2 minutes until softened.
2. Add minced garlic; cook for an additional minute.
3. Sprinkle flour into the pan, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes.

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

Step 4: Finish with Lemon Flavor

Stir in fresh lemon juice and lemon pepper seasoning:
1. Taste sauce; adjust seasoning if needed.
2. Return cooked chicken along with any accumulated juices back into skillet.
3. Nestle cutlets into sauce; add lemon slices.

Step 5: Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley or basil:
1. Sprinkle additional lemon pepper seasoning if desired.
2. Serve warm with your choice of sides like rice or pasta.

Enjoy your Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken!

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. You can pair this dish with a variety of sides or incorporate it into other meals for a delightful experience.

Over Rice

• Fluffy White Rice: A classic choice, white rice absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Herbed Rice: Add some fresh herbs like parsley or basil to elevate the flavor.

With Pasta

• Angel Hair Pasta: This light pasta complements the chicken and sauce perfectly.
• Fettuccine: Its wider noodles can hold more of the creamy sauce for each bite.

On a Salad

• Mixed Greens: Serve sliced chicken over a bed of greens tossed in a light vinaigrette.
• Caesar Salad: The rich flavors of the chicken pair well with the creamy Caesar dressing.

As a Sandwich

• Chicken Sandwich: Place the chicken cutlet on a toasted bun with lettuce and tomato for a quick meal.
• Wrap It Up: Use tortillas to create a flavorful wrap with spinach and avocado.

How to Perfect Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

To ensure your Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken turns out perfect every time, consider these tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and herbs will enhance the flavor significantly.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Avoid overcooking the chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go; add more salt or lemon pepper as needed for balance.
• Control Heat Levels: Cook on medium heat to prevent burning while allowing the sauce to thicken properly.
• Let It Rest: Allow the cooked chicken to rest before slicing for better juiciness.
• Experiment with Garnishes: Fresh herbs or additional lemon zest can brighten up the dish just before serving.

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Best Side Dishes for Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

Pairing your Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken with the right sides can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes offer comfort and soak up any leftover sauce.
2. Roasted Broccoli: The slight bitterness of broccoli balances the creaminess of the dish.
3. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a touch of elegance and freshness.
4. Quinoa Salad: A nutty quinoa salad brings texture and complements the chicken well.
5. Sautéed Spinach: Quick-cooked spinach adds color and nutrition without overpowering flavors.
6. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, spiralized zucchini is light yet satisfying.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for. Avoiding these mistakes will ensure a delicious and successful dish.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can lead to dry cutlets. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Skipping the Seasoning: Failing to season your chicken properly will result in bland flavors. Always season both sides generously with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Adding Lemon Too Early: Putting lemon juice into the sauce too soon can cause it to curdle. Wait until the sauce is simmering before adding fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
• Not Scraping the Pan: Neglecting to scrape up browned bits from the skillet will miss out on added depth in flavor. Make sure to deglaze the pan when adding broth for a richer sauce.
• Using Heavy Cream Instead of Half and Half: Using only heavy cream can make the dish overly rich. Half and half provides a nice balance between creaminess and tanginess without being too heavy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Instructions

• Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months; label with the date.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer chicken to a microwave-safe plate. Cover loosely and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken?

Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken is a one-pan dish made with tender chicken cutlets simmered in a luscious lemon cream sauce enhanced by garlic and pepper.

Can I use boneless thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless thighs can be used as a substitute for chicken breasts. They tend to be juicier and will work well with this recipe.

How do I customize Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken?

You can add vegetables like spinach or asparagus, or even switch up your herbs by using thyme or oregano for additional flavor profiles.

Is this dish gluten-free?

To make Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

What side dishes pair well with this recipe?

Serve this dish alongside rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables, which will soak up the creamy sauce beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken is not just quick and easy; it s also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or herbs, making it suitable for various occasions from weeknight dinners to special gatherings. Give it a try and enjoy its comforting yet sophisticated flavors!