Are you tired of bland, dry chicken that leaves your taste buds begging for excitement? Get ready to transform your dinner game with this mouthwatering Freezer Lemon Pepper Chicken recipe that promises to deliver a burst of tangy, savory flavors in every single bite! Whether you're a busy home cook or a culinary enthusiast looking for a quick and delicious meal, this recipe will become your new go-to dish that's guaranteed to impress family and friends.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 lemons, juiced
- 2 tsp lemon pepper seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, 2 lemons, lemon pepper seasoning, olive oil, and salt. Make sure your chicken thighs are thawed if they were previously frozen.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the chicken.
- In a small bowl, combine the juice of 2 lemons with 2 teaspoons of lemon pepper seasoning and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Whisk the mixture until well combined.
- Place the chicken thighs in a large mixing bowl or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the lemon pepper marinade over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is well coated. If using a bag, seal it and massage the marinade into the chicken for even coverage.
- Let the chicken marinate for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. If you have more time, marinating for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator will enhance the flavor even more.
- While the chicken is marinating, prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- After marinating, transfer the chicken thighs to the prepared baking dish. Season with salt to taste, ensuring even distribution.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken more tender.
- Serve the lemon pepper chicken hot, garnished with additional lemon slices or fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your meal!
Tips
- Marination is Key: For maximum flavor, try to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours. The longer the chicken sits in the lemon pepper marinade, the more intense and delicious the flavor will be.
- Temperature Matters: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This guarantees both safety and juiciness.
- Resting Period: Don't skip the 5-minute resting time after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is moist and tender.
- Customize Your Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the amount of lemon pepper seasoning to suit your taste preferences. Some people love a more intense flavor, while others prefer a subtle hint.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe is perfect for batch cooking. You can easily prepare multiple portions and store them in the freezer for quick weeknight meals.
- Side Dish Suggestions: Pair your lemon pepper chicken with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad to complete the meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 140mg
