Name: Red Pepper Lemon Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe· 4.2 from 40 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bright, zesty flavor and just the right amount of spicy kick, this Red Pepper Lemon Chicken Recipe is the answer. It’s a perfect harmony of tangy lemon, smoky paprika, and red pepper flakes that come together in a juicy, tender chicken breast cooked to perfection. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that feels special or a recipe to impress friends, this dish has a fantastic balance of freshness and warmth that comforts and excites the palate all at once.

Red Pepper Lemon Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients may seem simple, but each one plays a key role in building the vibrant taste and inviting aroma of the Red Pepper Lemon Chicken Recipe. From the fragrant smoked paprika to the fresh lemon zest, the combination creates layers of flavor that make this dish truly unforgettable.

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, providing lean protein and a canvas for all the lovely seasonings.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps to sear the chicken beautifully while adding richness.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Delivers a warm, smoky undertone that gives the chicken depth and color.
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Adds a gentle, adjustable heat level that wakes up your taste buds.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a cozy, savory foundation without overpowering the brightness of lemon.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors and balances the dish perfectly.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Offers a mild, peppery edge to complement the overall spice profile.
Juice and zest of 1 lemon: The fresh lemon flavor is essential for that zesty punch and lovely acidity.
1/2 cup chicken broth: Creates a flavorful cooking liquid that keeps the chicken moist and forms the base of the sauce.
2 tablespoons butter: Enriches and thickens the sauce, adding a silky finish.
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional): Provides a burst of color and a fresh herb note just before serving.

How to Make Red Pepper Lemon Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Chicken and Season Well

Start by patting your chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick and ensures a nice sear later. Generously season both sides with smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This spice blend sets the flavor foundation for your dish.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken to Lock in Juices

Heat olive oil in a large skillet on medium-high heat. Once it’s shimmering, add the chicken breasts and sear them for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful golden crust. Don’t worry if they aren’t cooked through yet — this is just to seal in those juices and flavor.

Step 3: Add Lemon, Broth, and Simmer

Pour in the fresh lemon juice and zest along with the chicken broth. Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let the chicken cook this way for 8 to 10 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring it’s juicy and tender throughout.

Step 4: Finish with Butter and Sauce

Remove the chicken breasts temporarily from the pan. Stir the butter into the hot sauce left behind until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thin for your liking, let it reduce slightly over medium heat for a minute or two. Then return the chicken to the pan and spoon the glossy sauce generously over the top.

How to Serve Red Pepper Lemon Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds the perfect pop of green and a subtle herbal brightness that balances the richness of the sauce. You can also add a few lemon slices on top for a vibrant, decorative touch that hints at the layers of lemon flavor within the dish.

Side Dishes

This chicken pairs wonderfully with fluffy rice or quinoa, both of which soak up the luscious sauce perfectly. For a veggie boost, try serving alongside roasted vegetables or a simple sauté of spinach or bell peppers, which also echo the colors and flavors in the recipe.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant dinner, serve the chicken on a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or alongside a bright salad with citrus dressing. Alternatively, shred the cooked chicken and fold it into warm tortillas topped with avocado and fresh greens for a zesty wrap that’s equally delicious and easy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or next-day lunches.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked Red Pepper Lemon Chicken Recipe in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Be sure to cool the chicken completely before freezing to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if necessary to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave covered in short bursts, stirring occasionally to warm evenly without drying out the chicken.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more richness and stay juicy, but cooking times may vary slightly. Just ensure they reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F before serving.

How spicy is the Red Pepper Lemon Chicken Recipe?

The heat is mild and adjustable, coming mainly from the red pepper flakes. You can reduce or increase the amount depending on your tolerance for spice without compromising the lemony flavor.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe and tasty option for those avoiding gluten.

What’s the best way to zest a lemon?

Use a microplane or fine grater to carefully remove just the colorful outer layer of the lemon’s skin, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath. This zest adds powerful lemon flavor without the acidity of the juice.

Can this be cooked entirely in the oven?

While this recipe is designed for stovetop cooking, you can also sear the chicken on the stove and finish it in a preheated 400°F oven for about 10 minutes, ensuring it stays juicy and flavorful.

Final Thoughts

This Red Pepper Lemon Chicken Recipe has become a true favorite in my kitchen because it’s so simple yet packed with vibrant flavors that never feel overwhelming. It’s one of those dishes that feels joyful to prepare and even more fun to eat, perfect for sharing with family and friends or savoring solo. Give it a try — I promise it will brighten your dinner table and your taste buds!