Zesty Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken
This Zesty Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken is a delightful twist on classic flavors, combining the tangy brightness of fresh lemon with aromatic herbs and zesty lemon pepper seasoning. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe was inspired by a spontaneous kitchen experimentation that resulted in a dish so delicious, it became an instant favorite. The chicken is tender, flavorful, and pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-make culinary treat!
4
Servings
150
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Chicken Breasts
1 1/2 lbs (boneless, skinless)
Lemon Pepper Seasoning
1-2 tablespoons (Lawry's or your favorite brand)
Lemon
1 (juiced and sliced)
Sea Salt
1/8 teaspoon (to taste)
Olive Oil
3 tablespoons (for brushing and drizzling)
Dried Basil
1 tablespoon
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
2
Lightly brush an 8x8 inch oven-proof glass dish with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking.
3
Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the prepared dish, arranging them in a single layer.
4
Sprinkle the lemon pepper seasoning and sea salt evenly over the chicken, followed by the dried basil.
5
Slice the lemon in half; cut one half into thin rings and arrange them over the chicken. Juice the other half and drizzle the fresh lemon juice over the chicken for added flavor.
6
Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the chicken to help lock in moisture.
7
Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture, then place it in the preheated oven.
8
Bake for 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit (75 degrees Celsius) and the juices run clear.
9
Once cooked, remove the foil and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Nutrition Information
7.5g
Fat
1g
Carbs
20g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken?
It is a flavorful dish that combines tangy fresh lemon, aromatic herbs, and zesty lemon pepper seasoning for a tender and easy-to-make chicken breast meal.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius.
How long does the chicken need to bake?
The chicken should bake for approximately 45 minutes.
What is the safe internal temperature for the cooked chicken?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit or 75 degrees Celsius.
How much chicken is needed for this recipe?
This recipe calls for 1.5 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
What type of baking dish is recommended?
An 8x8 inch oven-proof glass dish is recommended.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
What are the main seasonings used?
The main seasonings are lemon pepper seasoning, sea salt, and dried basil.
How do I prepare the lemon for this dish?
Slice one half of the lemon into thin rings to place over the chicken and juice the other half to drizzle over the top.
Why should I cover the dish with aluminum foil?
Covering the dish with foil helps retain moisture during the baking process to keep the chicken tender.
How much olive oil is required?
The recipe uses 3 tablespoons of olive oil in total for brushing the dish and drizzling over the chicken.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 150 calories.
What is the protein content per serving?
There are 20g of protein per serving.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains 7.5g of fat.
Are there many carbohydrates in this dish?
No, this dish is very low in carbohydrates, with only 1g per serving.
Should I let the chicken rest after baking?
Yes, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after removing the foil to allow the juices to redistribute.
Can I use any brand of lemon pepper seasoning?
Yes, you can use Lawry's or your favorite brand of lemon pepper seasoning.
What should I look for to ensure the chicken is cooked?
Ensure the internal temperature is 165 degrees Fahrenheit and the juices run clear.
Is the chicken breast boneless or bone-in?
This recipe specifically uses boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
How should the chicken be arranged in the dish?
The chicken breasts should be arranged in a single layer.
What kind of salt is best for this recipe?
The recipe suggests using sea salt.
How much dried basil should be used?
You should use 1 tablespoon of dried basil.
Is this recipe suitable for a weeknight dinner?
Yes, it is designed as an easy-to-make meal perfect for weeknights.
What side dishes pair well with this chicken?
It pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
Does this recipe contain fiber?
The nutritional information indicates that there is no significant fiber content in this specific chicken recipe.
How much lemon pepper seasoning should be applied?
The recipe suggests using 1 to 2 tablespoons depending on preference.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, with 150 calories and high protein, it is a healthy chicken breast option.
Do I need to grease the baking dish?
Yes, lightly brush the dish with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent the chicken from sticking.
What is the primary flavor profile of this dish?
The flavor is savory and zesty with bright citrus notes and aromatic herbs.
Can I adjust the salt amount?
Yes, the recipe suggests 1/8 teaspoon or to taste.