Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe (Zesty & Flavorful Dish)

Looking for a delicious and easy chicken recipe to add to your repertoire? Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken is the perfect choice! This mouthwatering dish is known for its zesty and savory flavors that will leave you craving for more. Made with juicy chicken breasts, a blend of herbs, Parmesan cheese, and lemon pepper seasoning, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken is not only popular at their restaurant, but you can also recreate this flavorful dish at home with just a few simple ingredients. From the first bite, you’ll experience the perfect balance of tangy lemon and savory flavors that will have you hooked.

Key Takeaways:

• Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken is a zesty and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion.
• It is made with juicy chicken breasts, herbs, Parmesan cheese, and lemon pepper seasoning.
• You can recreate this delicious recipe at home with ease.
• The flavors of Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken will leave you craving for more.
• It’s a popular dish at the Cheddar’s restaurant, and now you can enjoy it in the comfort of your own home.

Why Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken is Irresistible

Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen is a well-known American restaurant chain that serves homestyle food at affordable prices. Their Lemon Pepper Chicken is one of their signature dishes and is enjoyed by many customers. While you can visit Cheddar’s to enjoy this dish, you can also make a copycat version at home using this recipe. The flavors of this dish have received rave reviews from customers, and it’s no wonder why it’s so popular on the menu.

Ingredients for Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken

To make Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:

• Chicken breasts: Two large chicken breasts, sliced in half to make four thin chicken breasts, are recommended for this recipe.
• Lemon pepper seasoning: McCormick’s Lemon Pepper seasoning is recommended for the perfect balance of flavors.
• Flour: Used for dredging the chicken breasts.
• Olive oil: Used for cooking the chicken, but any neutral-tasting oil can be used as a substitute.
• Butter: Adds flavor to the dish and is used to make a pan sauce.
• Chicken broth: Used to make a pan sauce for extra flavor.
• Lemon: Sliced into wedges for garnish.
• Chopped parsley: Used for garnish and added color.

These ingredients come together to create the perfect balance of zesty and savory flavors in Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken.

How to Make Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken

Follow these step-by-step instructions to recreate the delicious Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken at home. This zesty and flavorful dish is sure to impress your family and friends.

1. Butterfly the chicken breasts: Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice each breast horizontally, but not all the way through, so that it opens like a book.
2. Season the chicken: Generously sprinkle lemon pepper seasoning on both sides of the chicken breasts. Rub it in to ensure even distribution of flavor.
3. Tenderize the chicken: Cover the seasoned chicken with plastic cling wrap. Using a meat mallet, gently pound the chicken breasts to flatten them. This helps tenderize the meat and allows the seasoning to penetrate.
4. Dredge the chicken: Place some flour in a shallow dish. Press each chicken breast into the flour, coating both sides evenly.
5. Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 3-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
6. Prepare the pan sauce: In the same skillet, melt some butter. Add chicken broth and lemon wedges. Stir until the butter is melted and the ingredients are well combined.
7. Finish cooking the chicken: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon some of the pan sauce over the chicken. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the flavors have melded together.
8. Serve and enjoy: Transfer the chicken to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve alongside your favorite side dishes. Enjoy the tangy and savory flavors of Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken!

Variations and Substitutions for Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken

If you want to customize the recipe or make substitutions, consider the following options:

• Chicken breast alternatives: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken breast tenderloins can be used as a replacement for chicken breasts.
• Gluten-free option: To make this recipe gluten-free, leave out the flour from the dredging process.
• Oil alternatives: You can use vegetable oil or any other neutral-tasting oil instead of olive oil.
• Butter alternative: If you prefer, you can omit the butter from the recipe.
• Broth substitution: Vegetable broth or vegetable stock can be used instead of chicken broth.
• Lemon wedges and parsley: These garnishes can be omitted or substituted with other herbs or seasonings.

Tips for Making the Perfect Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken

Follow these tips to ensure you make the perfect Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken:

1. Use McCormick’s Lemon Pepper seasoning for the best results, as it is perfectly balanced.
2. Don’t skip the step of pounding the chicken with a meat mallet. This tenderizes the meat and helps the seasoning penetrate.
3. Dredge the chicken breasts in flour to create a crispy coating.
4. Use a neutral-tasting oil for cooking the chicken, such as olive oil or vegetable oil.
5. Be sure to make the pan sauce with butter, chicken broth, and lemon wedges for extra flavor.
6. Serve the chicken with a garnish of chopped parsley for added color and freshness.

Why Pounding the Chicken is Important

Pounding the chicken breasts serves two important purposes in this recipe. First, it tenderizes the meat, ensuring a juicy and flavorful result. The meat mallet helps break down muscle fibers, resulting in a more tender texture. Second, it allows the lemon pepper seasoning to penetrate the meat more effectively, infusing it with zesty flavor throughout.

Pounding the chicken with a meat mallet is an essential step in achieving the perfect Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken. It may seem like an extra effort, but the results are well worth it. Don’t skip this step, and you’ll be rewarded with tender and flavorful chicken.

Now that you have these helpful tips, you’re ready to create a mouthwatering batch of Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken. Enjoy the flavorful blend of zesty lemon and savory spices, and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills!

Cooking Tips at a Glance

Benefits of Using a Meat Mallet for Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken

Using a meat mallet for Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken offers several benefits:

1. Uniform thickness: Pounding the chicken with a meat mallet ensures even cooking and reduces the risk of overcooking or undercooking certain parts.
2. Faster cooking: Tenderized chicken cooks faster, making it a time-saving technique, especially when preparing large quantities.
3. Improved tenderness: Tenderizing the chicken breaks down muscle fibers and connective tissues, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.
4. Enhanced flavor absorption: Tenderized chicken allows marinades and seasonings to penetrate deeper into the meat, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
5. More appealing presentation: Uniformly pounded chicken looks visually appealing when plated, making it an excellent technique for dishes where presentation matters.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ptOS3uwfFQQ

Using a meat mallet ensures even thickness and enhances the tenderness and flavor of Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken.

Storing and Reheating Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken

After enjoying a delicious serving of Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken, you may find yourself with some leftovers. To ensure the flavors remain intact and the chicken stays fresh, follow these simple guidelines for storing and reheating:

• Refrigerator: Store any leftover Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken in an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It can be kept for up to 3 days, allowing you to savor the flavors for another meal.
• Freezer: If you’re not planning to enjoy the leftovers within 3 days, you can freeze the chicken to extend its shelf life. Wrap the chicken tightly in foil and place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months, ensuring you have a tasty meal on hand whenever you crave it.

When it’s time to indulge in your leftover Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken, you have a couple of reheating options:

1. Reheating on the stove: Add a splash of broth to a pan and heat it over low heat. Place the chicken in the pan and gently reheat it on each side until warmed throughout. This method helps retain the chicken’s moisture and keeps it juicy.
2. Reheating in the microwave: If you’re looking for a quick and convenient method, use the microwave. Place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish and add a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. Heat it on high for 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken is heated evenly.

Whether you choose to reheat the chicken on the stove or in the microwave, make sure it reaches a safe internal temperature before enjoying your flavorful Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken once again. Now, let’s take a look at some essential tips for ensuring the chicken is cooked through.

Properly Reheating Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken

“Reheating leftovers doesn’t have to be a chore. With these simple methods, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken without compromising taste or texture.”

How to Ensure Chicken is Cooked Through

Properly cooked chicken is essential for a safe and delicious meal. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through without overcooking it. Here’s how:

1. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken, avoiding the bone. This will give you the most accurate reading.
2. Make sure the thermometer is not touching any bone, as this can give a false temperature reading.
3. The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit before removing the chicken from the heat. This ensures that any harmful bacteria present in the chicken are killed.
4. If the temperature is lower than 165 degrees, continue cooking the chicken until it reaches the safe internal temperature.
5. Once the chicken reaches 165 degrees, it is safe to eat and should be juicy and tender.

Remember, undercooked chicken can pose a risk of foodborne illnesses, while overcooked chicken can be dry and tough. Using a meat thermometer takes the guesswork out of cooking chicken and ensures a perfectly cooked result every time.

Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure your chicken is cooked to perfection.

Recommended Side Dishes for Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken

When serving Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken, consider pairing it with these delicious side dishes:

• Roasted vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, or zucchini make a great accompaniment to this dish.
• Couscous or quinoa: Nutty grains like couscous or quinoa complement the flavors of the chicken.
• Green salad: A light and refreshing green salad adds freshness to the meal.
• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make for a classic pairing with the flavors of the chicken.
• Baked sweet potatoes: For a healthier option, try baking some sweet potatoes to go with the chicken.
• Bread: Serve the chicken with warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

These side dishes enhance the overall dining experience and add variety to the meal. Whether you prefer vegetables, grains, or a combination of both, there’s a side dish here to suit your taste.

Pair Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken with these side dishes to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Tips for Leftovers and Freezing Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken

Once you’ve enjoyed your delicious Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken, you might find yourself with leftovers. Here are some tips for handling leftovers and freezing this flavorful dish to enjoy at a later time.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help preserve the flavor and freshness of the chicken. Leftovers can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

If you prefer to freeze your Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken for future meals, follow these simple steps:

1. Ensure the chicken has cooled down completely.
2. Wrap the chicken tightly in foil to prevent freezer burn.
3. Place the wrapped chicken in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag.
4. Label the container or bag with the date, so you know when it was frozen.

Your frozen Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, follow these steps:

1. Thaw the frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing process ensures the chicken remains at a safe temperature while defrosting.
2. Once thawed, you can reheat your leftovers on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Stovetop Reheating:

1. Add some broth to a pan over low heat.
2. Place the chicken in the pan and cook on each side until it is warmed throughout.

Microwave Reheating:

1. Place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish.
2. Add a splash of water or broth to the dish to help retain moisture.
3. Reheat on high for 2-3 minutes or until the chicken is thoroughly heated.

By following these tips, you can enjoy the zesty flavors of Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken even after it’s been stored or frozen. Whether you’re savoring leftovers or planning ahead, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds.

Conclusion

Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that brings the delicious flavors of Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen right to your own home. With its zesty and savory combination of lemon pepper seasoning, Parmesan cheese, and herbs, this chicken recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

By following the simple cooking instructions and tips provided, you can recreate this popular restaurant-style dish with ease. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken is a versatile and impressive option.

Impress your family and friends with this mouthwatering dish that captures the essence of Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen. From its tender and juicy chicken to the tangy and aromatic flavors, this lemon pepper chicken recipe is a guaranteed hit. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at your own dining table.