Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken is a delightful meal that combines tender chicken cutlets with a rich and tangy lemon cream sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or an elegant gathering, this dish stands out with its vibrant citrus notes and savory garlic flavor. It’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy schedules while still impressing guests with its taste.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken
• For the Sauce
• For Garnish
• How to Make Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken
• Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
• Step 2: Cook the Chicken
• Step 3: Make the Sauce
• Step 4: Combine Ingredients
• Step 5: Finalize Flavoring
• Step 6: Reintroduce Chicken
• Step 7: Serve
• How to Serve Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken
• With Fresh Herbs
• Over Starch
• Accompanied by Vegetables
• With Lemon Wedges
• How to Perfect Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken
• Best Side Dishes for Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken
• Reheating Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken?
• How long does it take to make Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken?
• Can I customize Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken?
• What should I serve with Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken?
• Can I use other types of chicken?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy nights.
• One-Pan Wonder: With everything cooked in one skillet, cleanup is a breeze.
• Flavorful Sauce: The creamy lemon sauce enhances the chicken cutlets without overpowering them.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables to suit your preference.
• Impressive Presentation: The garnishes of parsley and lemon slices make this dish visually appealing.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools for making Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken. Having the right equipment at hand will streamline your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for cooking the chicken and making the sauce all in one pan.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures you use the right amounts of ingredients for balanced flavors.

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

Pat the chicken cutlets dry using paper towels. Season both sides generously with kosher salt and coarsely ground pepper. Avoid adding the 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.
1. Add the seasoned chicken cutlets.
2. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
3. If needed, cook in batches to prevent overcrowding.
4. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the 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 shallots for 1-2 minutes until softened.
2. Add minced garlic; cook for an additional minute.
3. Sprinkle flour into the pan while stirring constantly for about 2 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Pour in low-sodium chicken broth while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
1. Stir in half and half until smooth; bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat and let simmer until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Finalize Flavoring

Stir in fresh lemon juice and lemon pepper seasoning. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.

Step 6: Reintroduce Chicken

Return cooked chicken along with any accumulated juices back into the skillet:
1. Nestle cutlets into sauce.
2. Add lemon slices into the pan.
3. Allow everything to heat through before serving.

Step 7: Serve

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil, adding extra lemon pepper seasoning if desired. Serve warm alongside your favorite side dishes!

How to Serve Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken is versatile and can be paired with various sides and garnishes to enhance its flavors. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley – Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Basil leaves – Add whole basil leaves for an aromatic touch that complements the lemon flavor.

Over Starch

• Rice – Serve the chicken over fluffy white rice to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Mashed potatoes – Pair with buttery mashed potatoes for a comforting, hearty meal.

Accompanied by Vegetables

• Roasted asparagus – The slight char and nutty flavor of roasted asparagus pair beautifully with the chicken.
• Steamed broccoli – Bright green broccoli adds color and balances the richness of the dish.

With Lemon Wedges

• Fresh lemon wedges – Serve alongside lemon wedges to allow guests to squeeze more citrus over their chicken, enhancing the flavor.

How to Perfect Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

Achieving the perfect Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for a delicious outcome every time.

• Use thin cutlets – Thin chicken cutlets cook evenly and quickly, ensuring they remain juicy.
• Don’t rush the browning – Allowing the chicken to brown properly enhances flavor through caramelization.
• Adjust seasoning last – Taste your sauce before adding extra salt or pepper; this ensures you don’t over-season.
• Simmer gently – Keep the sauce at a low simmer after adding cream to prevent it from separating.
• Let it rest – Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking helps retain moisture before serving.
• Experiment with herbs – Feel free to add thyme or rosemary for added depth in flavor.

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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 meal’s overall appeal. Here are some excellent options that complement its rich flavors beautifully.

1. Garlic bread – A crusty loaf slathered with garlic butter makes for a delightful accompaniment.
2. Quinoa salad – A light quinoa salad adds a healthy crunch and balances the creamy sauce.
3. Caesar salad – The crisp romaine and tangy dressing make for a classic pairing that brightens up your plate.
4. Grilled zucchini – Lightly seasoned grilled zucchini provides a fresh, smoky contrast.
5. Couscous with herbs – Fluffy couscous tossed with herbs adds texture and flavor without overpowering the main dish.
6. Sautéed spinach – Quickly sautéed spinach offers a nutrient-rich, vibrant side that cooks in minutes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Bold seasoning: Over-seasoning the chicken can overpower the dish. Use kosher salt and coarsely ground pepper sparingly, adjusting as needed after cooking.
• Bold cooking temperature: Cooking the chicken at too high of heat can lead to burnt outsides and raw insides. Aim for medium-high heat for even cooking.
• Bold timing: Not letting the chicken rest after cooking can result in dry meat. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving.
• Bold ingredients: Using fresh lemon juice instead of bottled ensures a brighter flavor. Always opt for fresh ingredients when possible.
• Bold sauce thickness: Adding too much flour can make the sauce too thick. Start with less and add more if necessary while whisking.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking.
• Consume within 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Label the containers with the date; it can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until heated evenly throughout.
• Stovetop: Warm on medium-low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to maintain creaminess.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken?

Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken is a delicious one-pan meal featuring tender chicken cutlets simmered in a rich lemon cream sauce with garlic and pepper.

How long does it take to make Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken?

This dish takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Can I customize Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or asparagus, or even substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for different flavors.

What should I serve with Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables, allowing you to soak up that delicious creamy sauce.

Can I use other types of chicken?

Yes! You can use chicken thighs or tenders if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken is both comforting and sophisticated, making it an ideal choice for any occasion. With its bright lemon flavor and rich sauce, you can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. Give it a try and enjoy a delightful meal that’s sure to impress!

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