What to Serve with Lemon Pepper Chicken: Our 41 Top Picks

We’re diving deep into the wonderful world of lemon pepper chicken sides today, a dish as zesty as it is peppery, and packed full of flavor.

But before we plunge into a delicious list of sides that pair flawlessly with this tangy, spicy wonder, let’s first take a moment to understand what makes lemon pepper chicken such an irresistible main course.

What is Lemon Pepper Chicken?

Lemon pepper chicken is a simple yet sophisticated dish that you’re going to absolutely love.

It’s chicken that’s been seasoned generously with a dynamic duo of tangy lemon zest and robust cracked pepper, then either grilled, baked, or fried to perfection. This tantalizing combo creates a taste sensation that’s both vibrant and hearty, often served with a lemon butter sauce for an added layer of citrusy, creamy goodness.

It’s one of those versatile dishes that can stand up to bold sides or sit comfortably with something more subdued.

So, with that mouth-watering picture painted, let’s embark on a culinary adventure and explore the list of delightful pairings that can bring the best out of lemon pepper chicken.

Get ready, your taste buds are in for a treat!

All the recipes are sorted into several categories for your convenience. Use the navigation below, and let your taste buds guide you to your next delicious meal!

Rice Dishes

Rice is a versatile side that can balance the tanginess and spiciness of lemon pepper chicken. It absorbs the chicken’s juices and flavors, creating a cohesive meal.

(The dishes below also pair beautifully with cilantro lime chicken.)

Plain Steamed Rice

This is the simplest option. Steamed rice offers a clean, neutral base that allows the lemon pepper chicken’s flavors to shine.

Its mild flavor and fluffy texture can temper the tanginess and spiciness of the chicken, making it a good option for those who prefer a more muted backdrop to the flavorful chicken.

Garlic Butter Fried Rice

This garlic butter fried rice recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that perfectly complement the zesty and tangy taste of lemon pepper chicken.

The fragrant garlic, rich butter, and subtle hints of soy sauce create a savory base for the fluffy basmati rice, while the crispy fried garlic slices add a satisfying crunch. Together, this dish provides a comforting and satisfying side that brings out the best in your lemon pepper chicken.

Feeling hungry? Take a look at Garlic Butter Fried Rice on Chili to Choc.

Baked Lemon Rice

This baked lemon rice recipe offers a delightful burst of citrus flavor that perfectly complements the zesty goodness of lemon pepper chicken.

The combination of fragrant Jasmine rice, tangy lemon zest, and savory chicken broth creates a harmonious blend of tastes that will elevate your meal to a whole new level. With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious side dish that will make your lemon pepper chicken shine even brighter.

Give it a try, and prepare to be amazed by the delightful flavors that await you!

Let’s get cooking with this Baked Lemon Rice from Buy This Cook That.

Cilantro Lime Rice

If you’re looking for a delicious and refreshing side dish to pair with your lemon pepper chicken, this cilantro lime rice recipe is just what you need.

The combination of zesty citrus flavors from the lime and lemon juices, along with the aromatic cilantro, will perfectly complement the savory and tangy flavors of the chicken. With its fluffy and light texture, this rice will add a delightful burst of freshness to your meal.

Check out this delicious Cilantro Lime Rice recipe from SoupAddict.

Coconut Rice

Coconut rice is another fantastic choice to pair with your lemon pepper chicken.

The creamy and fragrant coconut flavor of the rice perfectly complements the zesty and tangy flavors of the chicken. It adds a delightful tropical twist to your meal, creating a harmony of flavors that will leave your taste buds satisfied.

Give this recipe a try, and you’ll have a delicious and well-rounded meal that will impress your friends and family.

Loving this? Coconut Rice on Hilda’s Kitchen Blog is where you find the instruction.

Brown Rice Pilaf with Mushrooms, Kale, and Almonds

If you’re looking for a delicious and nutritious side dish to pair with your lemon pepper chicken, this brown rice pilaf with mushrooms, kale, and almonds recipe is a must-try.

The combination of earthy crimini mushrooms, hearty baby kale, and crunchy almonds adds a delightful texture to the fluffy brown rice. The subtle tanginess from the lemon juice ties it all together, creating a balanced and flavorful dish that perfectly complements the zesty flavors of the lemon pepper chicken.

Give it a go and elevate your meal with this simple yet satisfying recipe!

Why not try Brown Rice Pilaf with Mushrooms, Kale, and Almonds from Yay! For Food today?

Lemony Roasted Cauliflower Risotto

This lemony roasted cauliflower risotto recipe pairs perfectly with lemon pepper chicken because both dishes share a zesty and vibrant flavor profile.

The tangy lemon zest and juice in the risotto complement the citrusy notes of the lemon pepper seasoning on the chicken, creating a harmonious combination. The creamy and cheesy texture of the risotto provides a comforting contrast to the crispy and flavorful chicken.

Together, these dishes create a well-balanced and satisfying meal that will surely impress your taste buds.

Sounds like something up your alley? Here’s the Lemony Roasted Cauliflower Risotto recipe, courtesy of Cookie and Kate.

Potato Sides

The hearty, earthy flavor of potatoes provides a comforting counterpoint to the zest and heat of lemon pepper chicken.

Mashed potatoes can create a creamy base that balances the tangy chicken, while roasted or baked potatoes offer a crispy texture that contrasts with the tender chicken, creating a well-rounded meal.

Boiled Potatoes

Simple and easy to prepare, boiled potatoes provide a neutral, earthy base that lets the flavor of the lemon pepper chicken shine.

They can be served plain or with a bit of butter and herbs, and their soft texture complements the crispness of the chicken.

Oven Roasted Baby Potatoes

This recipe for oven roasted baby potatoes offers a delicious and simple side dish that pairs perfectly with lemon pepper chicken.

The potatoes are seasoned with garlic, salt, and pepper, creating a savory and flavorful accompaniment to the zesty chicken. The crispy exterior and tender interior of the roasted potatoes complement the juicy chicken, making every bite a delightful combination of textures and flavors.

Feeling inspired? Try this Oven Roasted Baby Potatoes from Plated Cravings.

Vegan Mashed Potatoes

This recipe for vegan mashed potatoes offers a creamy and flavorful side dish that perfectly complements the zesty and tangy flavors of lemon pepper chicken.

The smooth texture of the mashed potatoes, combined with the subtle hint of garlic and the richness of vegan butter, creates a delightful contrast to the bold and vibrant flavors of the chicken

Give this recipe a try, and you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal that will leave you craving for more.

Feeling hungry? Take a look at The BEST Vegan Mashed Potatoes on Simple Vegan Blog.

Garlic and Herb Roast Potatoes

Looking for a delicious side dish to pair with your lemon pepper chicken? Look no further than this mouthwatering recipe for garlic and herb roast potatoes!

The crispy and golden potatoes, infused with the flavors of garlic and parsley, will perfectly complement the zesty and tangy taste of the lemon pepper chicken. With the option to cook them in the oven or air fryer, you can easily customize this recipe to suit your preferences.

Once you try these flavorful roast potatoes, you’ll never want to have your lemon pepper chicken without them again!

Fancy this? Check out Garlic and Herb Roast Potatoes (Oven and Air Fryer) from Slimming Eats.

Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges

Here’s another option to consider: seasoned baked potato wedges.

These crispy and flavorful wedges are the perfect accompaniment to your lemon pepper chicken. With just a handful of simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can whip up a delicious side dish that will complement the zesty flavors of the chicken.

So why not give it a try and elevate your meal with these irresistible potato wedges?

Feeling hungry? Take a look at Seasoned Baked Potato Wedges on RecipeTin Eats.

Potato Gratin

Looking for a delicious side dish that perfectly complements your lemon pepper chicken? Look no further than this mouthwatering recipe for potatoes au gratin!

With its creamy layers of potatoes, melted cheese, and aromatic garlic, this dish is the ultimate comfort food. The rich flavors and textures of the potatoes au gratin will perfectly balance the zesty and savory flavors of the lemon pepper chicken, creating a truly delightful and satisfying meal.

So why not give this recipe a try and elevate your dinner to a whole new level of deliciousness? You won’t be disappointed!

Feeling inspired? Try this Potatoes au Gratin from RecipeTin Eats.

Hasselback Potatoes with Macadamia Nut Pesto

This hasselback potatoes with macadamia nut pesto recipe pairs perfectly with lemon pepper chicken because the crispy and flavorful potatoes complement the zesty and tangy flavors of the chicken.

The creamy macadamia nut pesto adds a luxurious touch to the dish, balancing out the savory and citrusy notes of the chicken. Together, these two dishes create a harmonious and satisfying meal that will surely impress your taste buds.

Ready for a culinary adventure? Explore Hasselback Potatoes with Macadamia Nut Pesto on Delish D’Lites for more.

Pasta and Bread

Pasta provides a neutral base that allows the lemon pepper chicken’s flavors to shine. It’s also excellent for absorbing the chicken’s sauce, ensuring that no flavor is lost.

Bread, on the other hand, adds a pleasing crunch to the meal and is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce, contributing to a satisfying dining experience.

Plain Spaghetti or Linguine

Simply cooked pasta makes a neutral base that lets the lemon pepper chicken’s flavors stand out. The pasta’s absorbency ensures that no flavor from the chicken’s sauce is lost, making each bite of the meal harmonious and flavorful.

Garlic Bread

This ramp garlic bread recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that perfectly complements the zesty and tangy taste of lemon pepper chicken.

The garlicky ramp pesto adds a burst of freshness, while the melted mozzarella creates a creamy and gooey layer on top of the crispy bread. The subtle crunch of walnuts adds a delightful nuttiness, and the hint of lemon juice adds a refreshing twist.

When you take a bite of this garlic bread alongside your lemon pepper chicken, you’ll experience a match made in culinary heaven.

Whip up this Ramp Garlic Bread Recipe from Last Ingredient.

Easy Lemon Herb Pasta

Looking for a delicious and refreshing side dish to pair with your lemon pepper chicken? Give this easy lemon herb pasta recipe a try!

With its tangy lemon zest, fragrant herbs, and creamy parmesan cheese, this pasta dish perfectly complements the zesty flavors of the chicken.

The simple preparation and vibrant flavors make it a quick and satisfying addition to your meal.

Treat yourself to this amazing Easy Lemon Herb Pasta from Life As A Strawberry.

Gluten Free Dinner Rolls

Looking for a delicious and gluten-free side dish to pair with your lemon pepper chicken? Look no further than these amazing gluten-free dinner rolls!

With their soft and fluffy texture, these rolls are the perfect complement to the zesty flavors of lemon pepper chicken. Plus, they’re super easy to make and require simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry.

So why not give this recipe a try? You won’t be disappointed!

Ready for a culinary adventure? Explore Gluten Free Dinner Rolls on The Gluten Free Austrian for more.

Pea Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Arugula

This pea pesto pasta with sun-dried tomatoes & arugula recipe pairs perfectly with lemon pepper chicken because it offers a refreshing and vibrant contrast to the savory and zesty flavors of the chicken.

The creamy pea pesto, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and peppery arugula create a delightful medley of tastes that complements the lemony and mildly spicy notes of the chicken. Together, these dishes create a well-balanced and satisfying meal that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.

Why not try Pea Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Arugula (Vegan + GF) from Minimalist Baker today?

Easy Focaccia Bread

If you’re looking for a delicious pairing to your lemon pepper chicken, here’s another option: easy focaccia bread (no knead).

This recipe requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. With its fluffy texture and fragrant aroma, the focaccia perfectly complements the zesty and savory notes of the chicken.

Give it a try, and you won’t be disappointed!

Dive into deliciousness with this Easy Focaccia Bread (No Knead) from Cloudy Kitchen.

(Here’s what to pair with focaccia, in case you’re interested.)

Vegetables

Whether roasted or steamed, vegetables add a nutritious element to the meal. Roasted vegetables like carrots or bell peppers can add a caramelized sweetness that complements the spicy and tangy chicken, while steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus provide a fresh, crisp contrast.

Together, they contribute to a balanced and colorful plate.

Roasted Broccoli and Cauliflower

Roasted broccoli and cauliflower is another delicious option to consider as a pairing for your lemon pepper chicken.

The combination of the tender, roasted vegetables with the zesty flavors of the chicken will create a well-balanced and satisfying meal. Plus, this recipe is incredibly simple to make, requiring just a few basic ingredients and minimal effort.

Tempted to cook this? Roasted Broccoli and Cauliflower Recipe (Easy!) from Wholesome Yum | Easy healthy recipes. 10 ingredients or less. is where you find the whole recipe.

Steamed Asparagus

Steamed asparagus is the perfect side dish to complement the flavors of lemon pepper chicken.

Its fresh and vibrant taste pairs wonderfully with the zesty and savory notes of the chicken. Plus, the simplicity of this recipe allows the natural flavors of the asparagus to shine through, creating a delicious and nutritious addition to your meal.

Give it a try, and you’ll discover a delightful combination that will satisfy your taste buds.

Let’s get cooking with this Steamed Asparagus from Spend With Pennies.

Steamed asparagus also pairs well with Tuscan chicken, and you can serve it alongside pesto pasta.

Roasted Carrots

Looking to add a burst of flavor and vibrant color to your dinner table? Why not try this simple and delicious roasted carrots recipe as a perfect pairing to your lemon pepper chicken?

With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have tender and caramelized carrots that perfectly complement the zesty and tangy flavors of the chicken.

This combination will elevate your meal and leave your taste buds craving for more. Give it a try and savor the delightful harmony of flavors!

Tempted to cook this? Roasted Carrots Recipe from NatashasKitchen.com is where you find the whole recipe.

Sautéed Spinach with Grapes and Almonds

If you’re looking for a simple and delicious side dish to pair with your lemon pepper chicken, look no further than this sautéed spinach with grapes and almonds recipe.

The combination of the tender spinach, sweet burst of grapes, and crunchy almonds creates a delightful mix of flavors and textures. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, allowing you to focus on enjoying your main course without any fuss.

Check out this delicious Sautéed Spinach with Grapes and Almonds recipe from Savory Simple.

Veggie Skewers

This veggie skewers with magic green sauce recipe is another fantastic choice to complement your lemon pepper chicken.

The combination of grilled sweet potatoes, red bell peppers, onions, and portobello mushrooms will add a burst of flavor and texture to your meal. Plus, the magic green sauce or BBQ sauce will take it to the next level, adding a tangy and zesty kick.

Give it a try, and you won’t be disappointed!

Treat yourself to this amazing Veggie Skewers with Magic Green Sauce from Minimalist Baker.

Salads

Salads provide a fresh and crisp element to the meal that can balance out the richness of the lemon pepper chicken.

A simple green salad adds a refreshing crunch, a Greek salad can bring a touch of the Mediterranean with feta and olives, while a Caesar salad with its creamy dressing can add a rich counterpoint to the tangy chicken.

A salad can make the meal feel lighter and more balanced.

Simple Green Leaf Salad with Shallot Vinaigrette

This simple green leaf salad with shallot vinaigrette recipe pairs perfectly with lemon pepper chicken because it offers a refreshing and light contrast to the savory and zesty flavors of the chicken.

The crisp lettuce, crunchy cucumber, and grated carrot provide a satisfying texture, while the tangy shallot vinaigrette adds a delightful burst of flavor.

Together, these two dishes create a well-balanced and satisfying meal that will leave your taste buds happy and your tummy satisfied.

Whip up this Simple Green Leaf Salad with Shallot Vinaigrette from Garlic & Zest.

Greek Salad

This Greek salad recipe offers a refreshing and vibrant combination of flavors that perfectly complements the zesty and tangy taste of lemon pepper chicken.

The juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and briny black olives create a delightful contrast to the succulent chicken. The creamy feta cheese and aromatic herbs add a touch of richness and freshness to the overall dish.

Give it a try, and you’ll have a delicious and well-balanced meal that will satisfy your taste buds.

Feeling inspired? Try this Greek Salad Recipe from Taming Twins.

Caesar Salad – with homemade Caesar Salad Dressing

This Caesar salad recipe offers a creamy and tangy homemade dressing that perfectly complements the flavors of lemon pepper chicken.

The combination of the zesty lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce in the dressing adds a delightful kick to the crisp romaine lettuce and crunchy garlic croutons. Topped with freshly grated parmesan cheese and savory bacon, this salad brings a burst of flavors that will elevate your lemon pepper chicken to a whole new level.

Loving this? Caesar Salad – with homemade Caesar Salad Dressing on RecipeTin Eats is where you find the instruction.

Caprese Salad

Looking for a refreshing and flavorful side dish to complement your lemon pepper chicken? Look no further than this delicious Caprese salad recipe!

With juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, this salad is the perfect light and refreshing accompaniment to the zesty flavors of the chicken. The tangy balsamic dressing adds a delightful touch, bringing all the flavors together in perfect harmony.

Here’s the Caprese Salad recipe if you’re interested, courtesy of Amanda’s Cookin’.

Spinach Strawberry Salad

This spinach strawberry salad pairs perfectly with lemon pepper chicken because it provides a refreshing and vibrant contrast to the savory and zesty flavors of the chicken.

The combination of the sweet strawberries, tangy dressing, and creamy blue cheese crumbles adds a delightful complexity to your meal. Plus, the crunchy candied pecans give a satisfying texture that complements the tender chicken.

Feeling inspired? Try this Spinach Strawberry Salad + Video from The Slow Roasted Italian.

Warm Lentils with Wilted Chard, Roasted Beets and Goat Cheese

This recipe for warm lentils with wilted chard, roasted beets, and goat cheese offers a delicious and hearty side dish that perfectly complements lemon pepper chicken.

The earthy flavors of the lentils and roasted beets provide a satisfying contrast to the zesty and tangy chicken, creating a well-balanced meal. The wilted chard adds a touch of freshness, while the creamy goat cheese crumbles bring a delightful creaminess to the dish.

Give this recipe a try, and you’ll have a flavorful and wholesome pairing for your lemon pepper chicken that will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished.

Fancy this? Check out Warm Lentils with Wilted Chard, Roasted Beets and Goat Cheese from Feasting At Home.

Grains

Grains like quinoa, couscous, or farro provide a wholesome, fiber-rich base for the chicken that can help make the meal more filling. Their nutty flavors also pair well with the lemon and pepper, and they can absorb the chicken’s sauce well, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and making the meal feel more complete.

Instant Pot Quinoa

Here’s another option to consider: instant pot quinoa!

Pairing it with lemon pepper chicken will bring a delightful balance to your meal. The light and nutty flavor of the quinoa will complement the zesty and tangy notes of the lemon pepper chicken, creating a satisfying and wholesome combination.

Give it a try and enjoy the convenience of a quick and delicious meal that will leave you feeling nourished and satisfied.

Give your taste buds a treat with this Instant Pot Quinoa (Fluffy, Perfect, No Soaking!) from Minimalist Baker.

Basil & Mint Cauliflower Couscous Salad

If you’re looking for a refreshing and light side dish to pair with your lemon pepper chicken, this basil & mint cauliflower couscous salad is the perfect choice.

With its flavorful roasted cauliflower, vibrant veggies, and fragrant herbs, it adds a burst of freshness to your meal. The combination of the tangy lime dressing and the fluffy couscous creates a delightful balance of flavors.

Feeling inspired? Try this Basil & Mint Cauliflower Couscous Salad from Full of Plants.

Mediterranean Bulgur Salad

This mediterranean bulgur salad recipe pairs perfectly with lemon pepper chicken because it offers a refreshing and light counterpart to the savory and zesty flavors of the chicken.

The combination of the tangy tomatoes, fresh herbs, and citrusy lemon in the salad beautifully complements the bold and peppery taste of the chicken. Together, these two dishes create a well-balanced and satisfying meal that will leave your taste buds delighted.

Give your taste buds a treat with this Mediterranean Bulgur Salad from A Couple Cooks.

Farro with Roasted Vegetables & Carrot Top Pesto

If you’re looking for a hearty and flavorful side dish to complement your lemon pepper chicken, this farro with roasted vegetables is just what you need.

The combination of nutty farro, tender roasted vegetables, and vibrant carrot top pesto creates a medley of textures and flavors that will elevate your meal to a whole new level. It’s the perfect way to add some wholesome goodness and a pop of color to your plate.

Give it a try and prepare to be delighted by this delicious pairing!

Sounds like something up your alley? Here’s the Farro with Roasted Vegetables & Carrot Top Pesto recipe, courtesy of Healthy Nibbles by Lisa Lin.

Chickpea Quinoa Tabbouleh Salad

Chickpea quinoa tabbouleh salad is another delicious option to pair with lemon pepper chicken.

Its fresh and vibrant flavors, from the tangy lemon juice to the fragrant mint and parsley, complement the zesty and savory taste of the chicken. The combination of the nutty quinoa, crunchy cucumber, and juicy tomatoes adds a delightful texture to the meal.

Give this recipe a try and enjoy a well-balanced and satisfying meal that will leave your taste buds satisfied.

Sounds interesting? Check out this Chickpea Quinoa Tabbouleh Salad from A Saucy Kitchen.

Barley Risotto with Mushrooms

This barley risotto with mushrooms recipe pairs perfectly with lemon pepper chicken because the earthy flavors of the mushrooms and thyme complement the zesty and tangy notes of the lemon pepper seasoning.

The creamy and comforting texture of the risotto balances out the crispy and flavorful chicken. Together, they create a delicious and satisfying meal that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

Sounds interesting? Check out this Barley Risotto with Mushrooms from Seasons and Suppers.

Legumes

Legumes like lentils, chickpeas, or black beans add a protein and fiber boost to the meal, enhancing its nutritional value. Their earthy flavors can balance the tangy and spicy chicken, and their different textures can add variety to the meal.

Serving legumes can make the meal more substantial and satisfying.

Canned Black Beans

The simplest option, canned black beans can be quickly heated and seasoned to taste. Their earthy flavor and soft texture can balance the zest and spice of the chicken, creating a more substantial meal.

Crisped Chickpeas with Herbs and Garlic Yogurt

Crisped chickpeas with herbs and garlic yogurt is another delicious option to pair with your lemon pepper chicken.

The combination of the crispy chickpeas and the tangy garlic yogurt perfectly complements the savory flavors of the chicken. It adds a delightful crunch and a burst of freshness from the herbs, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Give it a try and elevate your dinner game with this simple yet flavorful recipe.

Here’s the Crisped Chickpeas with Herbs and Garlic Yogurt recipe if you’re interested, courtesy of smitten kitchen.

Lentil Salad

Looking for a delicious and healthy side dish to pair with your lemon pepper chicken? Look no further than this flavorful lentil salad recipe!

With its hearty lentils, crunchy vegetables, and tangy dressing, it’s the perfect complement to the zesty flavors of the chicken. Plus, it’s a make-ahead meal, so you can easily prepare it in advance and have a stress-free dinner.

This combination will have your taste buds dancing with delight!

Sounds like something up your alley? Here’s the Lentil Salad (Perfect for Make-Ahead Meals!) recipe, courtesy of Detoxinista.

Bean Salad

Looking for a delicious and refreshing side dish to pair with your lemon pepper chicken? Look no further than this amazing bean salad recipe!

Packed with a variety of beans, corn, olives, and a flavorful dressing, this salad is the perfect complement to the zesty and tangy flavors of lemon pepper chicken. The combination of crisp vegetables, creamy beans, and zingy dressing will create a delightful balance of textures and flavors that will leave your taste buds craving for more.

So why not give this recipe a try and elevate your next meal to a whole new level of deliciousness? You won’t be disappointed!

Loving this? Bean Salad Recipe on Julie’s Eats & Treats ® is where you find the instruction.