This dish features tender chicken marinated in a fragrant blend of black pepper and spices, served alongside a refreshing lemon yoghurt sauce. The creamy yoghurt perfectly balances the spiciness of the chicken, creating a delightful harmony of flavours and textures. Ideal for a satisfying dinner, this recipe is both approachable and flavorful, making it a great choice for any home cook.
Recipe Times & Servings
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
15 minutes
Servings:
1
Ingredients:
- 1 chicken breast, boneless and skinless
- 1 tablespoon black pepper, freshly cracked
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine the black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, olive oil, and salt to create a marinade.
- Add the chicken breast to the marinade, ensuring it is well coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- While the chicken is marinating, prepare the lemon yoghurt sauce by mixing the plain yoghurt, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a bowl. Set aside.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken breast and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and golden brown.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve the sliced chicken on a plate, drizzled with the lemon yoghurt sauce, and garnish with fresh parsley.
Nutrition Per Serving
Calories:
300
Protein:
20
Carbs:
30
Fat:
15
Fiber:
5
Sugar:
8
Perfect Pairings: Sides to Complement the Dish
To elevate this Black Pepper Chicken with Lemon Yoghurt dish, consider pairing it with complementary sides that enhance its bold flavours. A serving of fragrant jasmine rice or fluffy couscous can absorb the zesty lemon yoghurt sauce, providing a satisfying base for the spiced chicken. For a burst of colour and added nutrition, roast a medley of seasonal vegetables—such as bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes—drizzled with olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt. The sweetness of the roasted vegetables balances the peppery heat of the chicken, creating a harmonious and well-rounded meal. Additionally, a simple side salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette can offer a refreshing contrast, cleansing the palate between bites.
Customizing the Recipe: Flavour Variations and Dietary Adaptations
For those looking to customize the recipe, there are several variations to explore. If you prefer a creamier sauce, incorporate a tablespoon of tahini into the lemon yoghurt mixture, adding a rich, nutty undertone. To introduce an extra layer of flavour, marinate the chicken with a teaspoon of smoked paprika or ground cumin alongside the black pepper, infusing the meat with a subtle smokiness. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red chilli flakes to the marinade or the yoghurt sauce. Vegetarians can adapt the recipe by substituting the chicken with hearty vegetables like portobello mushrooms or cauliflower steaks, applying the same marinade and cooking method. These adjustments allow you to tailor the dish to your taste preferences while maintaining its core appeal.
My Final Thoughts
This black pepper chicken with lemon yoghurt sauce is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any night of the week. The bold spice blend pairs beautifully with the creamy, citrusy sauce, making each bite satisfying and well-balanced.
When you’re cooking for yourself, this meal is a delicious way to enjoy a wholesome, homemade dinner with minimal effort. Give it a try and enjoy the rich flavours in every bite!
How might marinating chicken in a black pepper and spice blend, then pairing it with a lemon yoghurt sauce, enhance the balance of flavours in your cooking?
