Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lemon pepper chicken thighs are a fail-proof dish that requires minimal effort. The combination of lemon juice, zest, garlic, and black pepper gives the chicken a fresh, aromatic flavor, while the skin-on thighs keep the meat tender and juicy. This recipe is quick, simple, and delicious, making it an ideal choice for those looking for an easy yet impressive meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon onion powder
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon brown sugar (optional)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy skin.
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, onion powder, garlic, oregano, black pepper, salt, and brown sugar (if using).
Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken thighs, ensuring even coverage.
Place the chicken thighs skin-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Roast for 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Total Time: 45-55 minutes

Variations

Add a touch of honey to the seasoning mix for a slightly sweet contrast to the tangy lemon.
Serve the chicken over a bed of rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a quicker cooking time.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the chicken back in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless thighs, but the cooking time will be shorter, around 25-30 minutes.

Can I make this dish in an air fryer?

Yes, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the chicken for 18-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How do I get crispy skin?

Pat the chicken dry before seasoning and ensure it’s roasted skin-side up in a hot oven.

Can I skip the sugar?

Yes, you can skip the brown sugar if you prefer a more savory flavor.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Chicken breasts can be used, but they may dry out more easily than thighs, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I marinate the chicken ahead of time?

Yes, marinating the chicken for 30 minutes to an hour enhances the flavor, but it’s optional.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 6 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Can I make this recipe without lemon zest?

If you don’t have lemon zest, just use lemon juice for the citrus flavor.

How do I reheat the chicken?

To reheat, bake the chicken at 325°F until heated through or use the microwave for quicker results.

Conclusion

Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs are a quick and easy dinner that doesn’t compromise on flavor. With crispy skin, juicy meat, and a zesty seasoning, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this dish offers simplicity, convenience, and great taste.

Perfect Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: Julia
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

Perfect Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs are a simple and flavorful oven-baked dish that features crispy skin, tender meat, and a bright, zesty lemon pepper seasoning. This easy recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, delivering a savory, aromatic meal with minimal effort. It’s a perfect choice for a quick yet impressive dinner.

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin.
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, onion powder, garlic, oregano, black pepper, salt, and brown sugar (if using).
Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken thighs, ensuring even coverage.
Place the chicken thighs skin-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Roast for 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Add honey to the seasoning for a sweet contrast to the tangy lemon.

Serve with rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

For quicker cooking, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Roasting
Cuisine: American