Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs are zesty and juicy, making dinner exciting! The bright lemon flavor pairs perfectly with the peppery kick for a meal that everyone will love.
I like to serve this with some rice or veggies. It’s a crowd-pleaser and super easy to prepare. Plus, my kitchen smells amazing while it cooks—who could resist that? 🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs are great for juiciness and flavor. If you prefer a leaner option, you can use boneless thighs or even chicken breasts, but be aware that they may require less baking time.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemons bring bright flavor. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can work as a substitute, but fresh is always best for that zing. You can also use lime juice for a twist!
Lemon Pepper Seasoning: This is the star of the dish, but if you don’t have it, you can mix equal parts black pepper and lemon zest for a homemade version. Adjust to your taste!
Fresh Parsley: It’s used for garnish, but you can swap it with other fresh herbs like cilantro or thyme if that’s what you have. It’s all about that personal touch!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Comes Out Crispy?
Getting crispy skin is key to this recipe. To achieve that, make sure to follow these tips:
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels before marinating. This helps reduce moisture.
- Marinate the chicken at room temperature. It allows for better cooking and skin crispiness.
- Place your chicken on a wire rack in the baking dish if possible. This promotes even heat circulation all around.
- Don’t cover the chicken while baking; you want that skin exposed to the heat for crispiness!
How to Make Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 lemons (one juiced and one sliced)
- 2 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus a marinating time of at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours if you can). After that, you will need about 30-35 minutes to bake the chicken. In total, expect to spend about 1 hour to 2 hours and 45 minutes, depending on your marinating choice. The delicious flavors will be worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Mix the Marinade:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven is heating up, take a large mixing bowl and add the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want some heat. Mix everything well until it’s nicely combined—this will be your tasty marinade!
2. Marinating the Chicken:
Next, add the chicken thighs to the bowl with the marinade. Use your hands or a spoon to ensure each thigh gets fully coated. The more flavor, the better! Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature for a quick option, or if you have time, pop it in the fridge for up to 2 hours for even better flavor.
3. Preparing to Bake:
After marinating, grab a baking dish and lay the chicken thighs in it skin-side up. Place the lemon slices on top of each thigh for extra zest. This will not only add flavor but also a lovely presentation!
4. Baking the Chicken:
It’s time to bake! Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and let the chicken cook for 30-35 minutes. You’re looking for the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the skin should be golden and crispy. If you have a meat thermometer, this is a great time to use it!
5. Serving It Up:
Once the chicken is done, carefully remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes—this helps keep the juices in. Finally, garnish with some freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and serve hot with your favorite sides like rice or steamed vegetables. Enjoy your delicious lemon pepper chicken thighs!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs! Just adjust the cooking time to about 20-25 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Keep an eye on them to ensure they stay juicy and tender!
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder flavor, simply omit the red pepper flakes. For extra heat, you can increase the amount or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade. Taste and adjust according to your preference!
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade up to 24 hours in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply add the chicken thighs and let them marinate to absorb the flavors!
How to Store Leftover Lemon Pepper Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave it, but for best results, use the oven to maintain the crispy skin!
