Mediterranean Lemon Pepper Chicken with Avocado Slices
This Mediterranean Lemon Pepper Chicken is a light yet flavorful dish featuring juicy, seared chicken breasts marinated in zesty lemon, cracked black pepper, garlic, and herbs. Paired with creamy avocado slices, this dish is perfect for a refreshing lunch or a healthy, quick dinner. It’s gluten-free, low-carb, and packed with heart-healthy fats—true to Mediterranean style.
Prep & Cook Time
Prep time: 15 minutes
Marinate time (optional): 30 minutes – 2 hours
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30–45 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
2 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)
For Serving:
2 ripe avocados, sliced
Lemon wedges
Optional: cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, or mixed greens
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken (Optional but Recommended)
In a bowl or resealable bag, combine olive oil, lemon juice and zest, garlic, lemon pepper, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and coat well. Marinate in the fridge for 30 minutes to 2 hours for best flavor.
Cook the Chicken
Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil.
Place the chicken in the pan (shake off excess marinade) and cook for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C). Adjust time for thickness.
Rest the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain juices.
Prepare the Avocado
While the chicken rests, slice the avocados. Optionally, sprinkle them with a little lemon juice and cracked pepper to prevent browning and enhance flavor.
Assemble and Serve
Plate each chicken breast with avocado slices on the side. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with lemon wedges. Optionally, add a side of cherry tomatoes, cucumber, or a light Mediterranean salad.
Serving Ideas
Serve over quinoa, couscous, or farro for a more filling meal.
For a low-carb option, pair with cauliflower rice or a crisp green salad.
Drizzle with a light tzatziki or yogurt-herb sauce for extra Mediterranean flair.
Tips
Use Fresh Lemon Zest & Juice
Fresh lemon juice and zest are key to that bright Mediterranean flavor. Bottled lemon juice won’t deliver the same zing.
Don’t Overcook the Chicken
Overcooking dries out the meat. Use a meat thermometer and remove the chicken once it reaches 165°F (74°C).
Let It Rest
Resting the chicken for 5 minutes before slicing helps keep it juicy and flavorful.
Marinate for Maximum Flavor
Even 30 minutes makes a difference. If time allows, marinate up to 2 hours. Overnight is not necessary and may alter the texture.
Avocado Handling Tip
Toss avocado slices in a little lemon juice to prevent browning and to tie into the lemony flavor profile of the dish.
Variations
Garlic-Lover’s Twist
Add more garlic (roasted or minced) to the marinade, or finish the dish with a garlic-lemon butter drizzle.
Herb Boost
Mix in chopped fresh rosemary, basil, or thyme with the marinade or sprinkle over the cooked dish.
Tomato Avocado Salad Version
Serve the chicken over a bed of sliced avocados, cherry tomatoes, red onions, and cucumber tossed with olive oil and lemon juice for a fresh salad-style meal.
Add Feta
Top with crumbled feta cheese or shaved Parmesan for a salty, creamy touch that pairs beautifully with avocado.
Spice It Up
Add crushed red pepper flakes, Aleppo pepper, or a pinch of cayenne to the marinade for a little heat.
Low-Carb Bowl
Create a low-carb Mediterranean bowl with chopped romaine, chicken slices, avocado, olives, and a drizzle of tahini-lemon dressing.
Use Chicken Thighs
For extra flavor and juiciness, use boneless skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. They’re slightly fattier but super tender.
Lemon-Honey Glaze
Add 1 teaspoon honey to the marinade for a subtle sweet balance against the lemon and pepper.
Q&A: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-searing it?
A: Yes! This recipe is excellent on the grill. Grill over medium-high heat for about 5–6 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Q: How do I keep the avocado from browning?
A: Toss the avocado slices with a little lemon or lime juice immediately after slicing to slow oxidation and keep them fresh-looking.
Q: Can I meal prep this recipe?
A: Definitely! Cook the chicken ahead and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Slice avocado fresh before serving, or store with lemon juice and plastic wrap pressed directly on the surface.
Q: Is this recipe keto or low-carb?
A: Yes! This dish is keto-friendly and low-carb, especially when served without grains or with a side of leafy greens or cauliflower rice.
Q: Can I use bottled lemon juice?
A: Fresh lemon juice and zest give the best flavor. Bottled juice can work in a pinch but lacks the brightness of fresh citrus.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving — Approximate)
Calories: 420 kcal
Protein: 36g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Carbohydrates: 9g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 450mg
Cholesterol: 90mg
Note: Values may vary depending on portion size, ingredients, and added sides.
Conclusion
Mediterranean Lemon Pepper Chicken with Avocado Slices is a dish that proves healthy doesn’t have to mean boring. It’s fresh, zesty, and incredibly satisfying—perfect for weeknight dinners, light summer lunches, or clean eating meal prep. The combination of seasoned chicken, creamy avocado, and vibrant lemon-herb flavors makes this meal not just nourishing, but truly delicious.
Whether served over greens, grains, or all on its own, this recipe delivers a bright Mediterranean taste in every bite. It’s quick, customizable, and full of ingredients that love your heart as much as your taste buds.