Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs are juicy and bursting with fresh flavors. The tangy lemon and zesty pepper create a tasty topping that makes every bite special!
Honestly, even my pickiest eater loves this dish. It’s quick to whip up, and the smell while cooking is so good, it might just invite the neighbors over for dinner! 😂
I usually serve it with some rice or a green salad. It’s a simple meal that’s packed with flavor—perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are great for this recipe as they stay juicy and flavorful. You can substitute with skinless thighs or chicken breasts, but keep in mind that they may cook faster and can dry out more easily.
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the dish. If you’re looking for a healthier option, avocado oil is a great substitute. For a different flavor, consider using melted butter or even coconut oil.
Lemon Juice and Zest: Fresh lemon juice is key for a bright flavor. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice works, but fresh is always best. You can also use lime for a twist.
Spices: If you’re out of garlic or onion powder, you can use minced fresh garlic or onion instead. Just add them to the oil so they soften up. For a spicy kick, jalapeño powder or cayenne can replace red pepper flakes.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken Skin Gets Crispy?
Getting crispy skin is all about heat and moisture control. Make sure the chicken thighs are well-dried before seasoning. Here’s how:
- Pat the skin dry with paper towels before applying the seasoning mix. This helps it to crisp up.
- Use a higher oven temperature (400°F) to achieve that golden brown finish.
- Keep the skin side up in the baking dish so it can roast directly in the hot air of the oven.
- Avoid covering the chicken while baking, as that traps steam and can make the skin soggy.
Letting it rest for a few minutes before serving helps keep the juices in, giving you deliciously juicy chicken. Enjoy!
How to Make Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon slices (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 35-40 minutes to bake, so you can expect a total of around 50 minutes from start to finish. You’ll enjoy delicious lemon pepper chicken thighs that are juicy and flavorful!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Set your oven to preheat at 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your chicken gets that perfect golden brown and crispy skin.
2. Mix the Seasoning:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat!). Whisk everything together until it’s well mixed and looks nice and smooth.
3. Coat the Chicken Thighs:
Now it’s time for the chicken! Add the chicken thighs to your bowl of seasoning. Make sure to get your hands in there (you can use gloves if you prefer) and coat each thigh thoroughly with that delicious lemon pepper mixture. You want every bite to be bursting with flavor!
4. Prepare for Baking:
Take a baking dish and place the seasoned chicken thighs in it, skin side up. For an extra pop of flavor and beautiful presentation, arrange a few lemon slices on top of the chicken.
5. Bake the Chicken:
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for 35-40 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You want the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and look golden brown and crispy on the outside.
6. Rest and Garnish:
Once the chicken is done, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy. Before serving, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top to make it look even more appetizing!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to enjoy your delicious lemon pepper chicken thighs! Serve them warm with your favorite sides like rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs! Just reduce the baking time to about 25-30 minutes, as boneless cuts cook faster. Be sure to check that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil, you can use avocado oil, canola oil, or even melted butter. Each will bring a slightly different flavor, but they all work well in this recipe!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use the microwave if you’re short on time.
Can I Make This Recipe on the Grill?
Absolutely! Preheat your grill to medium heat. Grill the chicken thighs skin side down for about 6-8 minutes, then flip and cook for another 6-8 minutes or until cooked through. This will give you a lovely smoky flavor and crispy skin!
