Are you craving a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful meal? Look no further! This Lemon Pepper Wet recipe is your answer. It's a delicious and satisfying dish perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering. This recipe offers a fantastic balance of zesty lemon, spicy pepper, and tender juicy chicken, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is designed for you. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon pepper seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps them brown better. In a large bowl, toss the chicken pieces with olive oil, lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season generously with salt and black pepper.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook, without overcrowding the pan, until browned on all sides. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. If you need to cook the chicken in batches, that’s perfectly fine.
Step 3: Create the Sauce
Once the chicken is browned, pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear.
Step 4: Finish the Dish
Stir in the butter until melted and the sauce is thickened slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips for the Best Lemon Pepper Wet:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding the pan when searing the chicken will steam it instead of browning it. Work in batches if necessary.
- Use high-quality lemon pepper seasoning: The flavor of your dish heavily depends on the quality of your spices.
- Adjust the heat: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. For extra lemon flavor, add more lemon juice.
- Serve it up: This Lemon Pepper Wet is delicious served over rice, mashed potatoes, or your favorite vegetables.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Include bell peppers, onions, or zucchini for a more complete meal. Add them to the skillet along with the chicken.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or heavy cream at the end for a richer sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: 30-35g Fat: 15-20g Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This Lemon Pepper Wet recipe is a perfect example of how delicious and healthy home-cooked meals can be. It’s a quick dinner idea, a fantastic easy recipe, and a testament to the power of simple ingredients transformed into a delicious dish. Enjoy!