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Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken is a zesty, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. It combines the brightness of lemon with the warmth of black pepper, all baked into juicy, tender chicken. Bonus: it pairs beautifully with just about any side — from rice and roasted veggies to pasta or salad.
🍋 Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken
🕒 Prep Time: 10 minutes
⏱️ Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
🍽️ Serves: 4
📝 Ingredients
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
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2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
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2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
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1½ tsp lemon pepper seasoning
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1 tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp salt (adjust if your lemon pepper is salty)
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1 tsp dried parsley or Italian seasoning (optional)
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Optional: lemon zest for extra brightness
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Lightly grease a baking dish or line with foil for easy cleanup.
2. Prep the chicken:
Pat chicken dry with paper towels.
3. Mix the seasoning:
In a small bowl, stir together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon pepper, garlic powder, salt, and any optional herbs or zest.
4. Coat the chicken:
Brush or spoon the mixture over both sides of each chicken breast. Place in the baking dish.
5. Bake:
Bake for 25–35 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Cooking time depends on the thickness of the chicken pieces.
6. Optional – Broil for golden top:
Broil on high for 2–3 minutes at the end for a lightly crisped top.
7. Rest & serve:
Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh lemon slices or chopped parsley.
🍽️ Serving Ideas:
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Over rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes
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With roasted vegetables, steamed green beans, or a fresh salad
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Sliced into wraps or sandwiches with a yogurt or ranch sauce
🔄 Variations:
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Bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks: Adjust baking time to 40–45 minutes
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Air fryer: Cook at 380°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway
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Creamy version: Add a splash of cream and grated parmesan for a creamy lemon pepper bake
Would you like a one-pan version with veggies, a low-carb/keto variation, or a printable recipe card?