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Keto Lemon Pepper Chicken - Bright, Zesty, and Weeknight Easy

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken: 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or 2 large chicken breasts, halved lengthwise)
  • Lemon: 1 large lemon (zest and juice)
  • Black pepper: 1 to 1.5 teaspoons freshly cracked
  • Salt: 1 to 1.5 teaspoons kosher salt
  • Garlic: 2–3 cloves, minced
  • Butter: 2 tablespoons (use ghee if you’re dairy-free)
  • Olive oil or avocado oil: 1–2 tablespoons
  • Chicken broth: 1/2 cup, low-sodium
  • Italian parsley: Small handful, chopped (optional garnish)
  • Optional add-ins: 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Method
 

  1. Pat the chicken dry. Use paper towels to remove surface moisture. Dry chicken browns better and crisps beautifully.
  2. Season generously. Mix salt, freshly cracked black pepper, lemon zest, and optional onion powder. Rub all over the chicken, including under the skin if using thighs.
  3. Heat the pan. Set a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil and let it shimmer before adding the chicken.
  4. Sear the chicken. Place chicken skin-side down. Don’t move it for 5–7 minutes, until the skin is golden and crisp. Flip and cook another 3–5 minutes.
  5. Lower the heat and build the sauce. Reduce to medium. Push chicken to the edges. Add butter and garlic to the center; stir until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
  6. Deglaze. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Scrape up any browned bits. Spoon the sauce over the chicken.
  7. Finish cooking. Simmer gently 5–8 minutes, until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). If using thick thighs, cover loosely and extend the simmer as needed.
  8. Taste and adjust. Add a pinch more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to balance the flavors. The sauce should taste bright, buttery, and peppery.
  9. Rest and garnish. Let the chicken rest 3 minutes off heat. Spoon sauce on top and finish with parsley.
  10. Serve. Pair with sautéed asparagus, garlicky green beans, or a simple arugula salad for a fully keto plate.