Description
A quick and flavorful Lemon Pepper Chicken recipe featuring tender chicken cutlets seasoned with zesty lemon pepper and garlic powder, topped with crispy bacon and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner ready in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless skinless chicken cutlets
- 1 Tbsp Lemon Pepper seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Toppings and Cooking
- 8 pieces thick sliced bacon
- 4 cheddar cheese slices
- 2 tbsp reserved bacon grease (from cooking bacon)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Bacon: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the bacon pieces until crispy, about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally. Remove the bacon from the skillet and place on paper towels to drain. Reserve two tablespoons of the rendered bacon grease in the skillet.
- Season Chicken: Pat the chicken cutlets dry and season both sides evenly with lemon pepper seasoning and garlic powder.
- Cook Chicken: Heat the reserved bacon grease in the same skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken cutlets and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is cooked through.
- Add Toppings: Place two slices of cooked bacon onto each chicken cutlet, then top each with a slice of cheddar cheese.
- Melt Cheese: Cover the skillet with a lid to create steam and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese has melted completely.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish the chicken with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked safely to 165ºF (75ºC).
- If preferred, shredded cheddar cheese can be used instead of slices for faster melting.
- For less grease, drain excess bacon fat before cooking chicken, keeping just 2 tablespoons for flavor.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
- Leftover cooked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
