Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs Recipe
Golden and zesty, these lemon pepper chicken thighs boast a crisp, flavorful exterior with juicy, tender meat inside. A simple blend of olive oil, lemon juice, and aromatic spices creates a vibrant, citrusy bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this dish is effortless yet satisfying.
Equipment
- Large baking sheet
- Aluminum foil
- Paper towels
- 2 Small mixing bowls
- Meat thermometer
- Whisk
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp Lemon Pepper Seasoning
- 2½ lbs Chicken Thighs or Chicken Breasts
- ½ tsp Paprika
- ½ tsp Onion Powder
- ½ tsp Italian Seasoning
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Salt
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- 2 tbsp Lemon Juice
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with foil.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry and arrange them on the prepared sheet.
- In a small bowl, whisk olive oil and lemon juice, then drizzle evenly over the chicken, ensuring both sides are well coated.
- In another bowl, combine lemon pepper seasoning, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
- Sprinkle the spice mixture generously over the chicken, pressing lightly to adhere.
- Bake for 35-45 minutes until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Serve warm with your favorite sides.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to retain juices.
- Adjust seasoning to taste—add a pinch of cayenne for heat or more lemon juice for extra brightness.
- If using boneless thighs, reduce the cooking time by about 10 minutes.