Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs are a zesty treat! Juicy chicken thighs are seasoned with bright lemon and spicy pepper, making each bite flavorful and fun.
This dish is quick to make, perfect for busy nights. I often serve it with rice or veggies to soak up that tasty juice. It’s a family favorite—guaranteed smiles all around! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: These are perfect for this recipe because they stay juicy and flavorful when cooked. If you prefer, boneless, skinless thighs can be used, but adjust the cooking time since they might cook faster.
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps the skin crisp up. If you want a different flavor, avocado oil or melted butter can be good substitutes. They’ll give similar results without compromising taste.
Lemon Juice & Zest: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is best for brightness. If you’re short on fresh lemons, bottled juice works but may not be as vibrant. For zest, skip the green part to avoid bitterness.
Spices: Black pepper adds a nice kick, but if you prefer something milder, you can use white pepper. For a garlic boost, fresh minced garlic or garlic salt can substitute garlic powder.
Red Pepper Flakes: Optional for heat! If you like it spicy, you can also use cayenne pepper. For no heat, just leave this ingredient out.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Thighs Are Juicy and Flavorful?
Marinating is the key to juicy chicken. The marinade keeps the meat moist and infuses it with flavor. Allowing it to rest in the marinade for 15-30 minutes makes a big difference!
- Start by ensuring your chicken thighs are patted dry. This helps the marinade stick and leads to a crispy skin.
- When you apply the marinade, really coat every part of the chicken. Don’t be shy!
- Letting the chicken sit in the marinade is crucial – it’s not just about taste, but also about juicy texture. Cover and place it in the fridge if marinating longer than 30 minutes.
How to Make Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon slices (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious lemon pepper chicken thighs recipe will take about 10 minutes for preparation and 35-40 minutes for cooking. You’ll have everything ready in about 50-60 minutes, including a little extra time for marinating the chicken for that extra burst of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C). This high heat will help crisp the skin and cook the chicken perfectly!
2. Make the Marinade:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, black pepper, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes if you want some heat. This mixture will add a zesty flavor to your chicken!
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Take the chicken thighs and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them get crispy during baking. Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish, ready for seasoning!
4. Marinate the Chicken:
Pour the lemon pepper marinade over the chicken thighs, ensuring that they are well coated on all sides. To boost flavor, let the chicken marinate for at least 15-30 minutes. Feel free to cover the dish and place it in the fridge if you want to marinate longer!
5. Add Lemon Slices:
To enhance the flavor and presentation, arrange lemon slices on top of the chicken thighs. They’ll add a beautiful touch while the chicken cooks.
6. Bake the Chicken:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the chicken for 35-40 minutes. The chicken is ready when it’s golden brown, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Your kitchen will start smelling amazing!
7. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the juices locked in. Then, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving!
8. Enjoy!
Serve your flavorful lemon pepper chicken thighs with your favorite sides, and enjoy a delicious meal! Bon appétit!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Absolutely! If you prefer boneless chicken thighs, reduce the cooking time to about 25-30 minutes, as they cook faster. Always check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Lemons?
No worries! You can substitute the lemon juice with bottled lemon juice, but use slightly less (about 1.5 tablespoons) as it tends to be more concentrated. Just make sure to add a bit of zest from a lemon if you have it for extra flavor!
How Should I Store Leftover Chicken Thighs?
Store leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can use the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or heat in the microwave until warmed through. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to keep the chicken moist.
Can I Make the Marinade in Advance?
Yes, it’s a great idea! You can prepare the marinade a day ahead and store it in the fridge in a sealed container. Just give it a good whisk before using it to ensure everything is combined again.
