Description
This recipe for Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs offers a simple yet flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are marinated in a zesty lemon and pepper blend, then baked to crispy perfection. It’s a quick and easy way to prepare a delicious meal that appeals to everyone.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 2 lemons (zested and juiced)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine the lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and dried thyme. Stir until well mixed.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Arrange in Baking Dish: Place the marinated chicken thighs skin-side up in a single layer in a baking dish.
- Bake the Chicken: Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Broil for Extra Crispiness (optional): If desired, broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Rest the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the thighs from the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the chicken. Serve warm.
Notes
- For best flavor, use fresh lemons and high-quality chicken thighs.
- Marinating can be done in advance for deeper flavor.
- A meat thermometer ensures chicken is cooked to the correct temperature.
- Resting the chicken after cooking helps retain juices.
- Consider adding cayenne pepper for a spicy version.
- Boneless chicken thighs can be used; adjust cooking time.
- This recipe can be adapted for tofu or mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 thigh
- Calories: 330 kcal
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: N/A
- Fiber: N/A
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: N/A