Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs are a tasty treat that’s both zesty and juicy! The bright lemon flavor paired with a kick of pepper makes every bite refreshing. Perfect for dinner!
I love how easy these thighs are to cook—just season, bake, and enjoy! They pair well with rice or veggies, making dinner a breeze. Plus, the smell will make everyone hungry! 🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs are great for this recipe. They stay juicy and tender. If you prefer, you can use skinless thighs, but they might lack some flavor and moisture.
Olive Oil: I love using extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor. If you’re in a pinch, any neutral oil like canola or sunflower oil can work, though they won’t add as much taste.
Lemon Zest & Juice: Fresh lemons provide the best flavor. You can also use bottled lemon juice but go easy on it, as it’s often more tart. Lime zest and juice are a nice alternative if you want a different citrus touch.
Spices: For black pepper, use fresh ground for the best flavor. Garlic powder can be swapped with fresh minced garlic if you want a stronger kick. You can also leave out onion powder if you don’t have it on hand; the dish will still be tasty.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Skin Gets Crispy?
Achieving crispy skin is all about proper cooking techniques. Start by patting the chicken dry with paper towels before marinating. This helps the skin get crispy as it bakes.
- Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 400°F before putting the chicken in.
- Place the chicken skin-side up in the baking dish and avoid crowding it. This allows hot air to circulate around, making the skin crispy.
- Try not to cover the chicken while it cooks. Give it free air exposure so it can crisp up nicely.
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
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For Garnish:
- Lemon slices
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious lemon pepper chicken thighs recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, with an additional 30 minutes to 2 hours for marinating. Then, you’ll bake it for 35-40 minutes, making the total time around 1 hour to 2 hours and 50 minutes, depending on how long you choose to marinate the chicken.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This way, your oven will be ready for the chicken once you’re done preparing it.
2. Make the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, black pepper, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat!). Stir everything together well to form a tasty marinade.
3. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl, making sure to coat them evenly with the marinade. You can let them marinate for just 30 minutes on the counter or pop them in the fridge for up to 2 hours to soak up even more flavor. Just be sure to cover the bowl if it’s in the fridge!
4. Bake the Chicken:
After marinating, place the chicken thighs skin-side up in a baking dish. Pour any leftover marinade over the chicken. You can also arrange lemon slices on top for added flavor and a pretty look!
5. Cooking Time:
Now it’s time to bake! Place the dish in your preheated oven and cook for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. Make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
6. Rest and Garnish:
Once the chicken is ready, take it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes to keep it juicy. When you’re ready to serve, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and enjoy with your favorite sides like steamed vegetables or rice. Yum!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Absolutely! If you prefer boneless chicken thighs, just reduce the cooking time slightly, baking for about 25-30 minutes. Make sure they also reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight is a great idea! It allows the flavors to penetrate even more. Just make sure to cover it tightly in the fridge to prevent any cross-contamination with other foods.
What Can I Use Instead of Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil, you can substitute it with melted coconut oil, avocado oil, or butter. Each option will give a slightly different flavor, but they will all work well for this recipe.
How to Store Leftover Lemon Pepper Chicken?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes to retain its crispiness. Alternatively, you can use the microwave, but the skin may lose its crunch.
