Description
A creamy and zesty Lemon Pepper Chicken recipe that features tender pan-seared chicken breasts cooked in a luscious lemon pepper cream sauce. Quick to prepare and perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 2 chicken breasts, cut in half lengthwise (4 thinner pieces)
- Salt, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter, divided
Sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 2/3 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 1/2 tablespoon lemon pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create 4 thinner pieces. Sprinkle them lightly with salt, keeping in mind some lemon pepper blends contain salt.
- Heat the skillet: Add olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter to a skillet over medium-high heat. Allow the pan to heat up for a few minutes to ensure a good sear.
- Sear the chicken: Place the chicken pieces in the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Then, transfer the chicken to a plate.
- Start the sauce base: Add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the skillet and let it melt. Add the minced garlic and sprinkle in the flour. Cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute while stirring occasionally to form a roux.
- Add liquids and seasoning: Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and sprinkle the lemon pepper into the skillet. Whisk continuously for about a minute until the flour dissolves and the sauce starts to thicken.
- Finish cooking the chicken: Return the chicken pieces along with any juices from the plate into the skillet. Let everything simmer gently for another 4-5 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the sauce thickens to your liking. Adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper if necessary. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Ensure chicken is cooked through by checking for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Do not over-salt early on since lemon pepper blends can contain salt.
- Simmer the sauce gently to avoid curdling the cream.
- Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a lower-fat cream alternative.
