Are you tired of bland chicken dinners? Do you crave a simple yet incredibly flavorful meal that's ready in a flash? Then look no further! This lemon pepper chicken marinade recipe is your answer. It's a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious way to elevate your chicken to new heights. Perfect for weeknight dinners, BBQs, or even meal prepping, this recipe is a staple in our household and soon will be in yours. This easy recipe is perfect for those looking for healthy meals and quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup olive oil (for a richer flavor) or avocado oil (healthier option)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons dried lemon pepper seasoning (or more to taste!)
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1.5 to 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (or a mix!)
Instructions:
Get started: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Ensure everything is well combined. This homemade marinade will infuse your chicken with fantastic flavor.
Marinate the chicken: Add the chicken to the bowl and gently toss to coat each piece thoroughly in the marinade. For best results, marinate for at least 30 minutes. However, for even more intense flavor, marinate for 2-4 hours in the refrigerator, or even overnight!
Cook the chicken: There are several ways to cook your marinated chicken:
- Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Pan-fry: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, then transfer the skillet to the preheated oven (400°F) and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
Serve and enjoy: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This delicious and healthy meal is perfect on its own or with your favorite sides.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When pan-frying or baking, ensure there's enough space between the chicken pieces for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the most accurate way to ensure your chicken is cooked through and safe to eat.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to add more or less lemon pepper seasoning, salt, or other spices to suit your preferences.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade for a little kick.
- Herb-infused Chicken: Experiment with adding fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley to the marinade.
- Citrus Twist: Substitute some of the lemon juice with orange or lime juice for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate, based on 4 servings):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used and portion size.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 2-3g
This lemon pepper chicken recipe is a great example of delicious dishes you can easily make at home. It’s a perfect addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Enjoy!