If you are craving a delicious, protein-packed dish that is quick to prepare and packed with flavor, lemon pepper chicken is the way to go.
It’s a delightful, zest-infused, and succulent choice that’s perfect for weeknight meals or a healthy lunch.
Unlike traditional recipes, this version skips the flour coating for a lighter, carb-conscious approach. It’s gluten-free, low in carbs, and high in protein, making it ideal for those on a special diet or healthier lifestyle.
The key to this lemon pepper chicken without flour recipe is using quality lemon pepper seasoning and maintaining the perfect temperature while cooking to ensure your chicken is both juicy and crispy.
Enjoy it with a side of roasted veggies, over a fresh salad, or even in a sandwich the next day. It’s versatile, delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Lemon Pepper Chicken Without Flour
This lemon pepper chicken recipe is fantastic for those on a low-carb diet or anyone looking for a delightful grilled chicken with a zingy and punchy flavor.
Although it’s missing the traditional flour breading, it still delivers an incredible burst of taste from the zesty lemon and the mild heat of black pepper.
With a few simple ingredients and a well-prepared chicken, you can create an unforgettable meal that’s healthy, scrumptious, and perfect for any time of year.
You can make it on a grill, stovetop, or even bake it in the oven. The options are plenty.
Ingredients
Here’s what you need:
- Chicken breasts. Four boneless, skinless chicken breasts (roughly 6 ounces each). It’s essential to trim any visible fat for a leaner meal.
- Olive oil. A little olive oil gives that lovely, rich flavor while preventing the chicken from drying out.
- Lemon pepper seasoning. You’ll need about two tablespoons of lemon pepper seasoning for a generous coating.
That’s it! Just three simple ingredients and you’re on your way to making a fantastic lemon pepper chicken dish.
How To Make Lemon Pepper Chicken Without Flour
Here’s how to make it:
- Prep the chicken. Start by trimming the chicken breasts and removing any excess fat. This step is vital to avoid any extra greasiness.
- Coat with lemon pepper seasoning. Drizzle the chicken with olive oil, then sprinkle with the lemon pepper seasoning. Make sure to coat both sides evenly.
- Cook the chicken. Next, choose your cooking method.
- On the grill: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the chicken on the grill, and cook for 6-8 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- On the stovetop: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, and cook for 6-8 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- In the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Rest and serve. Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a couple of minutes to retain its juices. Then, serve it up and enjoy!
Note: For the complete list of ingredients and directions, see the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Chicken
Here are a few tips to help you achieve the best-possible lemon pepper chicken:
- Don’t overcook. Chicken is very easy to overcook, which can cause it to become dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked to the proper internal temperature and avoid leaving it on the heat for too long.
- Let it rest before cutting. After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing or serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and gives you moister chicken.
- Adjust the lemon pepper seasoning to your taste. Some like it mild, others like it spicy. Feel free to adjust the amount of lemon pepper seasoning to suit your preference.
Variations
There are a few ways to customize your lemon pepper chicken:
- Add fresh lemon. For an extra burst of citrus flavor, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the cooked chicken before serving. You can also add a few lemon slices next to the chicken as it cooks.
- Use a different seasoning blend. Don’t have lemon pepper seasoning or want to try something different? You can use other seasoning blends like garlic pepper, Cajun seasoning, or a simple combination of salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Make it creamy. If you prefer a creamier version, you can garnish the cooked chicken with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of homemade lemon pepper sauce.
What to Serve with Lemon Pepper Chicken
Lemon pepper chicken pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas:
- A fresh green salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Steamed broccoli
- Cucumber and tomato salad
- Cauliflower rice or quinoa
- Grilled asparagus
- Baked potatoes or sweet potatoes
Storage Tips
If you have any leftovers, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to four days in an airtight container.
To reheat, it’s best to use the microwave for a quick and easy option. However, if you prefer to maintain the crispiness, use an oven or air fryer. Be sure to cover the chicken with a damp paper towel if using the microwave to retain moisture.
Lemon Pepper Chicken (No Flour)
Ingredients
- 4 (6 ounce) boneless, skinless chicken breasts (trimmed)
- Olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon pepper seasoning
Instructions
- Trim the chicken breasts, removing any excess fat.
- Drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts, ensuring both sides are coated.
- Sprinkle the lemon pepper seasoning evenly on both sides of the chicken.
Choose your preferred cooking method:
- On the grill: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- On the stovetop: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- In the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
- Enjoy your no flour lemon pepper chicken with your choice of sides or as a standalone dish.