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    Home » Recipes » Chicken and Poultry

    Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe

    UPDATED Mar 6, 2020 · PUBLISHED Nov 7, 2017 BY Marjory Pilley · This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

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    Easy Baked Lemon Chicken Pin

    Incredibly flavorful and juicy Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken is low-carb, gluten-free and takes MINUTES to prepare. Sit back and relax while it cooks!

    Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken breast on a plate with a fork and lemons

    Lemon lovers rejoice!

    This easy, low-carb and healthy chicken recipe will become a staple at your house. It's basically the same recipe as our super-popular Lemony Baked Basa and Lemon Pepper Tilapia, except that we used chicken instead. The appeal of both recipes is the ease of preparation (we're talking about 5 minutes) and the delicious lemony flavor.

    This is a classic bake once, eat twice recipe that is very, very versatile.

    We love these two concepts so much! Here's why.

    Scenario: You're on your way home from work and don't have a dinner plan.

    • First, you literally do not have to know anything more. Just pull the chicken out of the refrigerator and get it cooking ASAP. It's not a 30-minute meal exactly. But, it comes close and it is all hands-off cook time. While it bakes you have some quick decisions to make. We have your back with lots of ideas below.
    • Second, while you are at it, make extra chicken so you will have leftovers and can make recipes like Layered Chicken Enchilada Casserole the next day!

    Happy Ending: In about 35-40 minutes, you have 2 or more dinners and possibly lunches ready to go.

    I'm a big fan of making a dinner plan. But, this happens at my house all the time. Now, I just plan on it! Another recipe that works the same way is Baked Blackened Chicken Breasts. It's popular with fans of spicy!

    How do you make Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken?

    Simply splash some lemon juice over the chicken, sprinkle lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder and paprika over each piece of chicken and place a sliver of butter on top. Bake in a 350 degree F oven for about 30 minutes. The beauty of this recipe is the simplicity of the preparation.

    We've provided the measurements in the recipe below. But, the amounts can definitely be eyeballed.

    Of course fresh lemon is best. But, we keep a bottle of lemon juice in the refrigerator and it works just fine.

    The pat of butter helps create the lovely juicy top and makes the chicken moist and delicious. We used a scant teaspoon of butter per serving and it is well worth it.

    Two Oven Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken breasts in a baking dish with lemons around it

    As for those little green specs you see...that's dried parsley and it is entirely optional. So are the lemon slices. Use these ingredients to up the presentation.

    How do you make Lemon Pepper Seasoning?

    To make your own lemon pepper seasoning, you will need to zest several lemons, dry out the zest and then combine it with mashed black peppercorns, salt and other spices such as thyme or minced onion. I'm 100% behind anyone who is up to the task. If so, check out this recipe for Homemade Lemon Pepper Seasoning.

    Or, buy a jar to keep on your spice rack, which is exactly what I do! In addition to seasoning chicken and fish, use it to liven up vegetables. Sprinkle it on before or after cooking.

    Note that depending upon how much salt is included in a blend, you will not need to add additional salt to the recipe.

    What do you serve with lemon pepper chicken?

    Lemon pepper chicken is very versatile. Simple sides such as green beans, asparagus, broccoli, zucchini, new potatoes and carrots will easily round out dinner. Many of these vegetables will cook nicely alongside the chicken too. Other ideas include serving it over salad greens, couscous or Curried Cauliflower Rice.

    Slice or dice the chicken and use it in:

    • Casseroles like Layered Chicken Enchilada Casserole Pie
    • Soups like Creamy White Bean Chicken Chili
    • Salads like Kale Quinoa Salad with Sesame Aioli or Chicken Arugula Rice Salad
    • Make ahead lunches like Taco Salads in Mason Jars

    Healthy Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken sliced into strips on a plate of greens with lemons

    Is lemon chicken healthy?

    I absolutely love this recipe because it is such an easy way to add healthy protein to your diet. Dice chicken and freeze it to up the protein content of meals. It's perfect for South Beach Phase I diet and it's keto-friendly too.

    Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken breast on a bed of greens with lemon slices

    Please rate the recipe and tag @DinnerMom or #DinnerMom on social media if you make this recipe. We love to see and SHARE what you are cooking up!

    Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe

    Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken Breast Recipe

    Incredibly flavorful and juicy Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken is low-carb, gluten-free and takes MINUTES to prepare.
    4.82 from 16 votes
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    Course: Main Course
    Cuisine: American
    Prep Time: 10 minutes
    Cook Time: 30 minutes
    Total Time: 40 minutes
    Servings: 4 servings
    Calories: 170kcal
    Author: Marjory Pilley

    Ingredients

    • 16 ounces Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
    • Salt and Pepper to taste
    • 4 teaspoons lemon juice
    • 1 teaspoon lemon-pepper seasoning
    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    • ½ teaspoon paprika
    • 4 teaspoons butter
    • Parsley garnish optional
    • Lemon slices optional

    Instructions

    • Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
    • Place chicken in a baking dish. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
    • Gently spoon lemon juice over chicken.
    • Sprinkle remaining ingredients over chicken.
    • Place butter slice on top of chicken.
    • Bake uncovered for approx. 30 minutes or until chicken temperature registers 165 F and juices run clear. Spoon juices over chicken, if desired.
    • Garnish with parsley and serve with lemon slices, if using.

    Notes

    Use a meat thermometer like this one to ensure that chicken is fully cooked, but not overdone. Using a thermometer is my number one tip for perfectly cooked meat!
    Grab 5 Low-Carb Saucesand get more easy, healthy recipes! JOIN HERE

    Nutrition

    Calories: 170kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 24g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 83mg | Sodium: 168mg | Potassium: 428mg | Vitamin A: 280IU | Vitamin C: 3.3mg | Calcium: 6mg | Iron: 0.5mg
    Nutritional and Food Safety Disclaimer

    More Chicken Recipes

    • Easy Skillet French Onion Chicken
    • Herb Crusted Turkey Tenderloins
    • Baked Chicken Parmesan Meatballs
    • Easy Leftover Chicken Cakes
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      Recipe Rating




    1. Sally Jo

      January 30, 2018 at 2:44 pm

      5 stars
      I loved the Basa recipe so I knew this one would have to good too...and it was. Love it and always make extras. Thanks!

      Reply
      • Marjory

        January 30, 2018 at 2:49 pm

        Thanks for your comment! It's a very versatile recipe that's for sure!

        Reply
    2. Jennifer Callison

      April 29, 2018 at 7:34 pm

      5 stars
      This is my favorite. It is Soooooo good

      Reply
      • Marjory

        April 30, 2018 at 7:28 am

        Thanks so much for your feedback! I'm so glad you enjoyed it!

        Reply
    3. Michael S

      May 03, 2018 at 8:23 pm

      What if you swap Olive Oil for butter? Are there less calories? Does it still taste the same?

      Reply
      • Marjory

        May 04, 2018 at 7:27 am

        Hi! There are slightly more calories in a teaspoon of olive oil (about 40) as compared to butter (about 34). Since lemon is the primary flavor, it should shine through either way. I'd love to know your thoughts if you make it this way!

        Reply
      • Shannon

        August 29, 2018 at 6:44 pm

        I'm making it right now with olive oil because my son is allergic to cows milk andhe can't have butter. I have vegan butter but I'm not a huge fan of it. I'll let you know how it turns out.

        Reply
        • Marjory

          August 30, 2018 at 7:18 am

          I hope you enjoy it!

          Reply
    4. Candy Duncan

      May 06, 2018 at 5:16 pm

      making this for the first time oven is set at 350 degrees after 30 minutes the chicken hadn't even reached 125 degrees with was meat thermometer.
      set for another 10 minutes going to check it every 10 minutes got a feeling it's going to take an hour at 350 degrees. Most recipes say 375 or 400 degrees for the oven. I hope it turns out tasting good and gets done soon

      Reply
      • Marjory

        May 07, 2018 at 7:22 am

        I hope it worked out. The cook time will vary depending upon how thickness of the chicken breasts. Also, it can definitely be cooked it at a higher heat for a shorter amount of time if desired..

        Reply
    5. Brennan

      May 28, 2018 at 11:01 pm

      If I remove the garlic would it still taste good

      Reply
      • Marjory

        May 29, 2018 at 7:19 am

        If you don't care for garlic then definitely leave this out. The lemony flavor will still shine!

        Reply
    6. Sherl

      July 16, 2018 at 6:49 pm

      Hi, been using the foil packs for my chicken breast for a long time and I've also been using the ranch seasoning packet and butter and it gives the chicken such a great taste! I am extremely picky about my chicken because a lot of recipes that I have tried the chicken still is so Bland and it just tastes awful to me so that's when I found the foil Packs along with the ranch seasoning packet and butter and my husband and I love it my question to you is with this lemon pepper and garlic recipe that you have does it give the chicken lots of flavor I just cannot stand to take a bite of chicken and it taste just extremely Bland I have to be able to taste the flavoring that I made it with sorry don't mean to sound so forward thank you!

      Reply
      • Marjory

        July 16, 2018 at 9:54 pm

        Hi! If you like lemon flavoring, then you should enjoy this recipe. The flavor profile will be completely different from the recipe you made with ranch dressing (which sounds delicious!) Note that lemon baked chicken can also be made in foil packets. I hope you enjoy it!

        Reply
        • Sherl

          July 17, 2018 at 6:35 pm

          thank you for your reply back to me if I use the foil packs with this recipe do I still need to leave it uncovered? or is it okay for me to just cover it completely up like I would if I were making the ranch foil packs? what I'm thinking is it would have much much more intense flavor if I just kept it covered up and closed thank you and by the way if you would like the recipe for the ranch and butter chicken let me know I would love to send it to you.

          Reply
          • Marjory

            July 18, 2018 at 8:23 am

            Cook it the same way that you prepare the ranch chicken, completely covered. Would love the recipe!!!

            Reply
          • Angie Adams

            December 08, 2021 at 3:42 pm

            would like the foil ranch chicken recipe, please. Sounds delicious and easy to make.

            Reply
      • Beauty Broken

        January 30, 2022 at 4:01 pm

        5 stars
        I use foil packs too! My father has heart disease and can’t have salt, so I use salt free things on his, and my husband likes spicy, but I don’t, this way everyone gets their desired flavor intensity, plus cleanup is a breeze!!

        Reply
        • Marjory Pilley

          January 31, 2022 at 7:20 am

          Thanks for your comment and tip on foil packs! Add a few veggies in the pack too and you have a complete meal!

          Reply
    7. Melanie Sikes

      August 06, 2018 at 8:24 pm

      5 stars
      This recipe was delicious! Didn’t change anything and it cooked perfectly. Served it with green beans and cream cauliflower. Thanks for the recipe!

      Reply
      • Marjory

        August 07, 2018 at 7:29 am

        Thanks so much for your comment! Love your sides!

        Reply
    8. Andrew

      December 11, 2018 at 12:12 am

      5 stars
      I can’t believe I read all of that, but I did... and now I’m totally SOLD on the recipe and the FOIL PACKETS!! Haha. I’m a husband, to a wonderful wife and mother and she loves when I surprise her with lemon pepper chicken and asparagus. But I’ve never tried it with fresh squeezed lemon. And I love that idea. And the packets marinating it. I’m on it for a surprise lunch tomorrow. Thanks ladies.

      Reply
      • Marjory

        December 11, 2018 at 6:48 am

        Thanks so much for your comment! Terrific tip to add asparagus to the foil packet. I would LOVE to come home to that! Enjoy!

        Reply
    9. Kelly

      January 19, 2019 at 4:24 pm

      5 stars
      My family raves about this chicken!! It was scrumptious!!!

      Reply
      • Marjory

        January 20, 2019 at 9:11 am

        I'm so glad you liked it! 🙂

        Reply
    10. Debi

      March 05, 2019 at 12:09 am

      4 stars
      made this tonight and not bad I will make it again

      Reply
      • Marjory

        March 05, 2019 at 6:57 am

        Glad you liked it!

        Reply
    11. AJ

      December 15, 2019 at 6:40 pm

      What side dishes would be good with this? (Newly moved out and trying to adult)

      Reply
      • Marjory Pilley

        December 16, 2019 at 9:08 am

        Hello! There's a section within the post with ideas and links to more recipes. I often make rice bowls, chop and add to soups or make fajitas (slice chicken and add to warmed flour tortilla along with tomatoes, beans, onions, cheese, guacamole, sour cream...) Add to ceasar salad or serve with just about any veggies. We often have zucchini, green beans on the side.

        Reply
    12. MC Cochran

      April 15, 2020 at 12:39 pm

      5 stars
      This is the best chicken I've ever made. It was so easy. I didn't have paprika so I substituted red pepper flakes. The flavor was so nice that it felt like it was a lot more complicated. My husband told me 50 times how good it was. I will make it again. Next time I will make extra.

      Reply
      • Marjory Pilley

        April 15, 2020 at 1:18 pm

        Thanks so much for coming back to comment! 🙂 I'm so glad you enjoyed it! Definitely make extra for the next day or to freeze!

        Reply
    13. Joanna

      April 16, 2020 at 8:22 pm

      Great idea and it came out so good

      Reply
    14. Kara

      October 29, 2020 at 8:33 pm

      5 stars
      Omg, just made this tonight! Delicious moist chicken. I often over cook chicken but this was perfect! I baked mine at 375 for 30 minutes (the Amish chick breasts were a little thick) then tented with foil for about 10 mins and served with broccoli drizzled with resulting chicken sauce, I absolutely devoured it, fantastic! Leftovers will will be great on salad or to make a chicken salad. Thank you!

      Reply
      • Marjory Pilley

        October 30, 2020 at 7:09 am

        I'm so glad you enjoyed it!!!

        Reply
    15. Miss Lyn

      January 05, 2021 at 10:53 am

      3 stars
      This was not our favorite recipe. It didn't taste bad, the seasonings just didn't seem to go with chicken well. Half way through eating my fiancé asked if maybe this was supposed to be a fish recipe? For us this was a miss.

      Reply
      • Beauty Broken

        January 30, 2022 at 3:57 pm

        5 stars
        This goes well with tilapia, just takes less time since most tilapia is thin and cooks fast!!

        Reply
    16. Lindsey Stewart

      February 27, 2021 at 4:25 pm

      I’m going to make this for sure. Do you think it would work with a small pork tenderloin

      Reply
      • Marjory Pilley

        February 27, 2021 at 4:30 pm

        I've never tried it! I think it might! Be liberal with the lemon pepper seasoning. And, please let me know if you try it!

        Reply
    17. Michael Kelley

      March 24, 2021 at 5:31 pm

      Making this for the first time tonight! Hope it turns out tasting delicious! Love finding different recipes!!!

      Reply
    18. Brittney

      November 28, 2021 at 1:21 pm

      Hello. How should I alter the recipe for a group of 15-20. Thank you.

      Reply
      • Marjory Pilley

        November 29, 2021 at 7:09 am

        Hi! Use sheet pans to cook the recipe. There is a slider under for the serving size so you can adjust the quantities. The cook time may be a little longer, so it will be very, very helpful to use insert a meat thermometer while the chicken is cooking to get it just right. Enjoy!!!

        Reply
    19. Chris Dotson

      December 13, 2021 at 11:01 pm

      5 stars
      Best to pound down the thick chicken breasts with a meat tenderizer or rolling pin at thicke parts so they’re an even piece of chicken- this is so they cook evenly. Brush with some oil before seasoning and then a quick splash of lemon before oven. EXCELLENT RECIPE for ‘grilled chicken’ Caesar salad. Delicious thank you! Sorry for my ‘additions’ but this is what I did per my experience in the kitchen and it made even cooking easier, and quicker in oven so juicier chicken. Thanks!

      Reply
      • Marjory Pilley

        December 14, 2021 at 7:25 am

        I'm so glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for sharing your tips.

        Reply
    20. Barbara Miller

      February 03, 2022 at 8:21 am

      Be CAREFUL with use of aluminun foil, cans, and foil pans. Research proved that adults who developed Alzheiners had high levels of aluminum collected in their blood!

      Reply
    21. John

      October 24, 2022 at 6:45 pm

      I've not made this yet . Have a kind of a silly question can I just use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast since I can't afford chicken breast with my income? Thank you

      Reply
      • Marjory Pilley

        October 25, 2022 at 8:09 am

        Absolutely!

        Reply
    22. John Nelson

      November 17, 2022 at 7:46 pm

      5 stars
      Used this recipie for a low carb meal along with Lemon-Pepper Green Beans, and Low fat Greek Spinich salad! 😉

      Reply
    23. Pamela

      January 15, 2023 at 10:20 am

      5 stars
      Made this last night. It was delicious!

      Reply
    24. Tracy

      January 31, 2023 at 9:00 pm

      5 stars
      Big hit tonight at dinner! Definitely making this again!

      Reply
      • Marjory Pilley

        February 01, 2023 at 7:41 am

        I'm so happy you enjoyed it! Thanks for commenting!

        Reply
    25. Brandie

      March 13, 2023 at 7:08 pm

      5 stars
      Very easy and fun to make because you know your family will love the taste and its healthy!!

      Reply

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