Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken

Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken is a simple yet elegant dish that brings together bright citrus flavors, rich creaminess, and the savory warmth of black pepper into a single pan. This comforting recipe is designed for busy weeknights but is impressive enough to serve for a casual dinner party or special family meal.

With tender, juicy chicken cutlets seared to golden perfection, then bathed in a velvety lemon cream sauce, this meal captures both comfort and freshness. The combination of fresh lemon juice, garlic, shallots, and cream creates a balanced flavor profile that highlights the beauty of lemon pepper chicken, elevating it beyond the usual skillet chicken recipe.

Why will you love this recipe? First, it’s a true one-pan wonder. That means fewer dishes and less cleanup, making it ideal for busy home cooks. It’s also highly adaptable. You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or asparagus directly into the sauce for a complete meal. Plus, with a few tweaks, it can easily be made gluten-free or low-carb.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Key Preparation Tips

• Use chicken cutlets rather than whole chicken breasts for faster, more even cooking.
• Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to help it sear properly.
• Avoid adding lemon pepper seasoning directly to the raw chicken before searing, as it can burn and turn bitter in the hot pan.

Essential Tools

• Large Skillet: Ideally a stainless steel or cast iron skillet for even browning.
• Sharp Knife: For slicing chicken into uniform cutlets.
• Cutting Board: Use separate boards for raw chicken and vegetables.
• Tongs: Easier handling of cutlets without tearing the crust.
• Whisk: Essential for blending the creamy sauce smoothly.
• Citrus Juicer: To extract maximum fresh lemon juice.

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Ingredients List

• 2 large chicken breasts, sliced into 4 thin cutlets
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Coarsely ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 small shallot, minced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup half and half
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 1-2 lemons)
• 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
• Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
• Lemon slices, for garnish

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Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

• Pat the chicken cutlets dry using paper towels.
• Season both sides of the cutlets with kosher salt and coarsely ground black pepper.
• Hold off on the lemon pepper seasoning until later to avoid burning it during the sear.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

• Heat olive oil in the skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the chicken cutlets and cook for 5 to 7 minutes per side, until golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• If needed, cook in batches to prevent crowding the pan.
• Remove the chicken and set aside on a plate.

Step 3: Build the Sauce Base

• Reduce heat to medium-low and melt butter in the skillet.
• Sauté the shallot until softened, about 1-2 minutes.
• Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

• Sprinkle flour over the sautéed shallot and garlic.
• Stir constantly for about 2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste.
• Pour in chicken broth, scraping up browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

Step 5: Add Cream and Flavor

• Stir in half and half and whisk until smooth.
• Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer until slightly thickened.
• Stir in fresh lemon juice and lemon pepper seasoning.
• Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Return Chicken to the Skillet

• Return the chicken cutlets and any accumulated juices to the skillet.
• Nestle the chicken into the sauce and add lemon slices for garnish and extra flavor.
• Simmer gently until the chicken is heated through.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil.
• Serve directly from the skillet or plated with rice, pasta, or vegetables to soak up the sauce.

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Quick Notes and Tips

• Use thin chicken cutlets for quick cooking.
• Avoid overcooking to keep the chicken tender.
• This dish pairs perfectly with garlic rice, buttered noodles, or roasted vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken is one of those versatile dishes that can be served straight from the pan or plated elegantly for a more refined presentation. Thanks to its velvety lemon cream sauce and bright citrus flavor, this dish pairs beautifully with a wide range of sides, from comforting starches to fresh vegetables.

For casual meals, serve the chicken directly from the skillet with a spoon to drizzle the sauce over the cutlets. If you are serving guests, consider plating each cutlet individually with a generous spoonful of sauce and a slice of fresh lemon for visual appeal.

This recipe works well as a centerpiece for a family dinner but is just as fitting for date nights or small gatherings. Whether served over a bed of pasta, alongside rice, or paired with roasted vegetables, this lemon pepper chicken always feels comforting yet refined.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe

Even a simple skillet chicken dish can go wrong without the right techniques. Below are common pitfalls and practical tips to ensure your Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken turns out perfect every time.

1. Using Thick Chicken Breasts

Thick chicken breasts take longer to cook and often result in dry, unevenly cooked meat. Always slice large breasts into cutlets for quicker, more even cooking.

2. Overcrowding the Pan

If the skillet is overcrowded, the chicken will steam instead of sear. This prevents the golden crust essential for flavor. Cook the cutlets in batches if necessary.

3. Burning the Garlic

Garlic can quickly turn bitter if cooked at high heat for too long. Add garlic after the shallots are softened and cook it for no more than a minute before moving to the next step.

4. Adding Lemon Pepper Seasoning Too Early

Lemon pepper seasoning contains citrus zest, which can scorch in a hot pan, giving the dish an unpleasant burnt flavor. Always add this seasoning directly to the sauce, not the chicken itself during searing.

5. Overcooking the Chicken

Chicken cutlets cook quickly, especially when thin. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken from the pan immediately once it reaches the safe temperature.

6. Curdled Sauce

Adding lemon juice too quickly or at too high a temperature can cause the cream to separate. To avoid this, lower the heat before adding lemon juice and whisk it in gradually. If the sauce begins to split, a quick whisk and a splash of broth can often bring it back together.

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Side Dish Recommendations

Pairing Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken with the right side dishes elevates the entire meal. Here are eight well-matched options that enhance the flavors and textures of the dish.

1. Garlic Butter Rice

Fluffy rice infused with garlic butter perfectly complements the creamy sauce, soaking up every drop.

2. Roasted Asparagus

The natural earthiness and slight bitterness of asparagus balances the bright, rich lemon sauce.

3. Buttered Egg Noodles

Soft, buttery noodles act as the perfect canvas for the creamy lemon pepper sauce, adding a comforting element to the meal.

4. Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes provide a classic, hearty side that complements the tangy, creamy chicken beautifully.

5. Simple Arugula Salad

A light, peppery arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken dish.

6. Steamed Broccoli

Mild, tender broccoli provides a healthy, simple side that pairs well with the creamy sauce without overpowering it.

7. Crusty Baguette

A crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

8. Lemon Parmesan Risotto

For a more indulgent option, creamy risotto infused with lemon and parmesan harmonizes perfectly with the main dish, creating a luxurious meal.

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Serving Tip

Consider placing a small pitcher of extra sauce on the table for guests who want an extra drizzle. The sauce is just as good over vegetables or even as a dipping sauce for bread.

Recipe Tips for Best Results

Even though Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken is a relatively simple dish, a few key techniques can make the difference between a good meal and an unforgettable one.

• Use fresh lemon juice. Bottled juice lacks the bright, vibrant flavor that fresh lemons provide.
• Don’t skip the flour. The small amount of flour used to thicken the sauce helps it cling to the chicken, ensuring every bite is rich and flavorful.
• Let the chicken rest. Allowing the cutlets to rest after searing helps them stay juicy when returned to the sauce.
• Taste as you go. The balance between lemon, cream, and seasoning is personal. Taste and adjust to match your preferences.
• Use low-sodium broth. This gives you better control over the final salt level, especially since lemon pepper seasoning can already contain salt.

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storing Leftovers

• Store cooled chicken and sauce in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Freezing is not recommended due to the cream-based sauce, which may separate upon thawing.

Reheating Tips

• Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or half and half to loosen the sauce if it has thickened in the fridge.
• Alternatively, microwave leftovers in short bursts, stirring between intervals to prevent uneven heating.
• Avoid boiling the sauce during reheating, as this can cause the cream to split.

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FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the chicken and make the sauce separately. Store them in the refrigerator and combine when ready to serve. Gently reheat the chicken in the sauce before serving.

How can I make this gluten-free?

Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or use cornstarch mixed with water to thicken the sauce. Ensure your broth and lemon pepper seasoning are gluten-free as well.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well. They may need a few extra minutes of cooking time, but they remain tender and flavorful.

What can I substitute for half and half?

You can use heavy cream for a richer sauce or a mixture of whole milk and heavy cream if you want to lighten it slightly. For a dairy-free option, full-fat coconut milk can work, though it will add a subtle coconut flavor.

What’s the best pan to use?

A stainless steel skillet or cast iron pan is ideal for this recipe. These pans heat evenly, develop a flavorful fond (the browned bits on the bottom), and allow for easy deglazing when building the sauce.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes. Use olive oil instead of butter, and substitute the half and half with full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. The flavor will shift slightly but still be delicious.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely. Spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or asparagus can be added directly to the sauce for a one-pan meal. Add tender vegetables at the end, so they don’t overcook.

What if my sauce curdles?

If the sauce starts to separate, remove it from heat and whisk vigorously. A splash of cold broth or half and half can help re-emulsify the sauce. Keeping the heat low when adding lemon juice also helps prevent curdling.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, this recipe scales well. Use a large skillet or cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding. Increase sauce ingredients proportionally and adjust seasoning to taste.

Is this good for meal prep?

It can be, though cream sauces tend to thicken when stored. For meal prep, store the sauce and chicken separately if possible. Reheat gently, adding liquid to adjust the sauce consistency.

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Conclusion

Creamy Lemon Pepper Skillet Chicken is the perfect balance of bright lemony tang, rich creamy sauce, and savory peppered chicken. Its versatility makes it ideal for weeknight dinners, yet it’s elegant enough for guests. With its quick preparation time, minimal cleanup, and easily adaptable nature, this one-pan meal deserves a spot in your regular recipe rotation.

Whether served over rice, pasta, or paired with roasted vegetables, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. The combination of fresh lemon, garlic, butter, and tender chicken creates a comforting, flavorful meal that’s both simple and refined.

Try adding your own twist, from extra herbs to your favorite vegetables, and make it your own. For more easy skillet dinners, check out our One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Creamy Tuscan Chicken Skillet for even more mealtime inspiration.