Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken
Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken is a vibrant and juicy dish that transforms a classic flavor profile into something fresh and sophisticated. With a light marinade of olive oil, fresh lemon zest, and cracked black pepper, this recipe ensures moist and tender chicken breasts, making it a staple for healthy home-cooked meals.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
- 3 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 2 large Fresh Lemons
- 1.5 teaspoons Coarsely Cracked Black Pepper
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Sea Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Dried Thyme or Oregano
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and pound them to an even thickness if necessary.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon zest, juice of one lemon, minced garlic, cracked black pepper, sea salt, and thyme.
- Place the chicken in a large bowl or zip-top bag and pour the marinade over it, massaging to coat evenly. Let marinate for 15-20 minutes.
- Arrange the chicken in a lightly greased baking dish and place thin slices of the second lemon on top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked perfectly. Zest lemons before juicing for easier handling. For a golden crust, sear the chicken in a hot skillet for 2 minutes per side before baking.