By Dr. Leah Alexander | Published on August 9, 2023 | Last Updated on November 7, 2023
Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken is a classic dish that will make your taste buds tingle! This zesty dish is packed with flavor, and it’s sure to become an instant favorite.
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re hosting a dinner party. Serve it up with your favorite side dishes. It’s sure to be a hit and it won’t break the bank.
Plus, it’s super easy to make and can feed a crowd. Follow along with this step-by-step guide for perfectly cooked Lemon Pepper Chicken every time! So what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients and let’s get cooking!
What is Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken?
Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen is well known for its delicious Lemon Pepper Chicken dish. This mouth-watering meal consists of juicy chicken breasts covered in a savory blend of herbs, Parmesan cheese, and lemon pepper seasoning.
The combination of flavors creates an unforgettable dish that will have your guests coming back for more! At Cheddar’s, the dish is made from scratch with fresh ingredients and cooked to perfection.
This restaurant chain has been around for over 30 years, and its Lemon Pepper Chicken has become one of their signature dishes. It’s a classic favorite that will never go out of style!
What does it taste like?
Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken is a zesty and savory dish. The lemon juice and pepper add a bright, citrusy flavor that is balanced out by the earthy tones of garlic and thyme.
The Parmesan cheese adds a nutty, salty note to the dish and the breadcrumbs provide a nice crunch for texture. All of these flavors combine to create a comforting meal that will leave you wanting more.
How did I first get introduced to Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken?
I was first introduced to Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken while visiting my best friend in Texas. We were looking for somewhere to grab lunch and she suggested Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen. I fell in love with the dish immediately.
The flavor combination was fresh, zesty, and savory – I just couldn’t get enough! I asked our server for the recipe, but they couldn’t give it to me. So after my visit, I decided to recreate this delicious dish at home.
I did some research and found a simple yet flavorful recipe online. After gathering all of the ingredients, I was ready to get started! The steps were straightforward and easy to follow, so I was able to make the dish with ease.
The results were amazing! The chicken turned out perfectly cooked and tender with a crunchy crust. The flavor combination of lemon juice, garlic, thyme, and Parmesan cheese was mouth-watering. My family couldn’t get enough!
Now Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken is one of my favorite dishes to make. It’s so easy to whip up and the flavor combination never gets old! I love that I can recreate this classic dish at home and share it with my loved ones.
It’s definitely become a family favorite in our house. And next time I visit Cheddar’s, I know what I’ll be ordering!
How to make Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken?
Making Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken at home is surprisingly simple and easy. All you need are a few common ingredients, and you can have this classic dish ready in no time!
Here’s what you’ll need:
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Ingredients
- Chicken breast: This is the main component of Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken.
- Butter: This will help give the chicken its flavor and keep it moist.
- Garlic: This adds a nice depth of flavor to the dish.
- Thyme: Thyme is an herb with a robust, earthy flavor that pairs well with citrus.
- Lemon juice: This brightens the dish and adds a nice acidity.
- Bread crumbs: The bread crumbs help give the chicken its crunchy texture.
- Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, savory flavor to the dish.
- Lemon pepper seasoning: This is what gives this classic dish its signature taste.
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1
Prepare the Chicken
Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, take a large bowl and put in the chicken breasts. Add salt and pepper for flavor.
Step 2
Make the spice
In a small bowl, melt the butter over low heat and add in the garlic, thyme, lemon juice, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, and lemon pepper seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens.
Step 3
Assemble the Chicken
Take a large baking dish and spray it with nonstick cooking spray. Place the chicken breasts into the dish and sprinkle over the spice. Bake in a preheated oven for 25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Step 4
Serve
Once the chicken is done, you can serve it with a side of your favorite vegetables or grains.
Tips
- If you want to add some extra flavor to your dish, try adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano.
- If you don’t have any bread crumbs on hand, crushed crackers will work just as well.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular ones.
- If you’d like to add a bit of heat, try adding some chili flakes or cayenne pepper.
- To make sure your chicken doesn’t dry out while baking, cover it with foil halfway through cooking time.
- For an even crispier crust, brush the top of the chicken with olive oil before placing into the oven.
- To make sure the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check that it’s reached an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe
Equipment
- baking dish
Ingredients
- 3/8 teaspoon thyme important for flavor, offering an earthy and herbaceous note, contributing to the overall depth and complexity of flavors.
- 1/4 cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese offering a nutty and salty taste, creating a rich and cheesy crust on the chicken.
- 1 heaping tablespoon minced garlic releasing its aromatic and savory essence, infusing the chicken with a delicious garlicky flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon lemon pepper combining the zesty flavor of lemon with the mild heat of black pepper, adding a delightful kick and enhancing the overall seasoning of the dish.
- 1/4 cup Italian bread crumbs creating a crispy and flavorful coating, adding texture and a savory element to the dish.
- 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice providing a tangy and refreshing acidity, adding brightness and a subtle citrusy taste to the chicken.
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, providing lean and versatile protein, perfect for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
- 1/4 cup butter 1/2 stick, adding richness and a velvety texture to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor and juiciness of the chicken.
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, take a large bowl and put in the chicken breasts. Add salt and pepper for flavor.
- Make the spice In a small bowl, melt the butter over low heat and add in the garlic, thyme, lemon juice, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, and lemon pepper seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens.
- Assemble the Chicken Take a large baking dish and spray it with nonstick cooking spray. Place the chicken breasts into the dish and sprinkle over the spice. Bake in a preheated oven for 25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Serve Once the chicken is done, you can serve it with a side of your favorite vegetables or grains.
Notes
- If you want to add some extra flavor to your dish, try adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano.
- If you don’t have any bread crumbs on hand, crushed crackers will work just as well.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular ones.
- If you’d like to add a bit of heat, try adding some chili flakes or cayenne pepper.
- To make sure your chicken doesn’t dry out while baking, cover it with foil halfway through cooking time.
- For an even crispier crust, brush the top of the chicken with olive oil before placing into the oven.
- To make sure the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check that it’s reached an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Nutrition Information
What to serve with Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken?
- Roasted Vegetables: Pair this dish with some roasted vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or zucchini. The vegetables will balance out the flavors and add a boost of nutrition to your meal.
- Couscous or Quinoa: Grains like couscous and quinoa are great side dishes for Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken. The nutty, earthy flavors of the grains will complement the dish perfectly.
- Greens Salad: A green salad is a light and refreshing side dish to serve with this dish. Try adding some fresh herbs for extra flavor!
- Mashed Potatoes: For a classic pairing, serve Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken alongside a warm bowl of mashed potatoes. The creamy texture of the potatoes will balance out the zesty flavors in the dish.
- Baked Sweet Potatoes: For a healthier option, try baking some sweet potatoes to go with your chicken. The sweetness of the potatoes is a great contrast to the savory chicken.
- Bread: Serve Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken with a side of warm, crusty bread. The bread will soak up all the delicious sauce and make for a comforting meal.
How to store leftover Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken?
Once you’ve enjoyed Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
To reheat the chicken, simply put it in a baking dish and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. If you want to store the chicken longer, it can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
To freeze, place the chicken in an airtight container or freezer bag and seal it tightly before putting it into the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw the chicken overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat it as described above.
Can pregnant women eat this?
Yes, pregnant women can enjoy Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken as part of a balanced diet. Pregnant women should always consult a medical professional before making any dietary decisions.
Since this dish is made with cooked chicken, it is safe for pregnant women to eat. However, pregnant women should always make sure that the chicken is cooked thoroughly and reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit to avoid any food borne illnesses.
FAQs
Can I make Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken with boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can use either one for this dish. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will take a bit longer to cook than the breasts, so just keep an eye on them and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I use a different cheese instead of Parmesan?
Yes, you can try using other cheeses like mozzarella or Gruyere for a different flavor.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried ones?
Yes, you can definitely use fresh herbs in this dish if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the flavor may be slightly different than if you used dried herbs.
Wrapping Up
With this easy-to-follow guide, you can now recreate Cheddar’s Lemon Pepper Chicken in your own kitchen! This classic dish is sure to become a family favorite – so give it a try and let us know how it goes!
Thank you for trying out this. We hope you’ll be able to create delicious meals that your whole family will love! Don’t forget to share this article with your friends and family.
If you have any questions or comments about this, please leave them in the comments section below. We’d love to hear from you!
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Dr. Leah Alexander, M.D., is a board-certified Pediatrician in New Jersey and has been working at Elizabeth Pediatric Group of New Jersey since 2000.
She also has a passion for culinary arts that extends beyond the medical realm. After completing culinary school at the French Culinary Institute, she started Global Palate, LLC, a catering firm, in 2007. She ran her own six-year-old catering company and served small group parties as an owner and executive chef.
