Moist Lemon Pepper Chicken Breast – Quick Healthy Weeknight Recipe

I remember the first time I made this lemon pepper chicken on a chaotic weeknight when work was running late, and the kids were starving. I wanted something quick, wholesome, and flavorful, nothing too fussy but something that still felt special. Seeing those juicy, golden chicken breasts come off the pan and hearing everyone say how bright and delicious it smelled felt like a small victory in the day’s chaos. Eventually, it became our go-to comfort dinner, especially when we needed simplicity without sacrificing flavor. Now I intentionally choose chicken thighs or breasts depending on what we have, but the seasoning stays the same: lemon zest, freshly cracked pepper, a little garlic powder. Plating it beside rice or salad means everyone gets a balanced meal, and somehow, on busy nights, this simple dish still brings us all together at the dinner table.

Moist Lemon Pepper Chicken Breast – Quick Healthy Weeknight Recipe

This moist, flavorful lemon pepper chicken breast is a fast, healthy, and vibrant weeknight dinner made with pantry staples. A simple marinade of lemon zest, pepper, garlic powder, and olive oil yields juicy, perfectly seasoned chicken. It pairs beautifully with rice, salads, or wraps and always earns seconds.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 230

Ingredients
  

  • 2 Large chicken breasts halved horizontally
  • 1 tsp Lemon zest
  • 2 tbsp Lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil
  • 1 tsp Black pepper
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • ½ tsp Garlic powder

Equipment

  • 1 skillet
  • 1 Meat thermometer
  • 1 Tongs

Method
 

  1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, lemon zest, garlic powder.
  2. Heat oil in skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Cook chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, or until internal temp hits 165°F.
  4. Squeeze lemon juice over before serving.

Notes

  • Marinate for 30 mins for more flavor.
  • Great over salads, rice, or sliced in wraps.

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