Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs: A Flavorful and Easy Dinner
Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs are juicy, flavorful, and oven-baked to perfection. This easy recipe features a tangy, garlicky marinade and a crispy, golden-brown finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and juicy chicken dish, these Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs are the perfect choice! Packed with bright citrus flavor, aromatic garlic, and just the right amount of spice, this recipe is simple yet impressive. Whether you're cooking for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping, this dish is sure to become a household favorite.
These oven-baked chicken thighs are marinated to perfection and finished with a quick broil for crispy, golden-brown edges. Plus, they require minimal ingredients and effort, making them an easy go-to meal!
Ingredients Breakdown
Each ingredient in this recipe serves an important role in creating the perfect balance of flavors:
Chicken Thighs (4 boneless, skinless) – Chicken thighs are naturally juicy and flavorful, making them perfect for baking.
Olive Oil (2 tbsp) – Helps to coat the chicken, ensuring even seasoning and keeping the meat moist.
Garlic Powder (1 tsp) – Adds a deep, savory flavor without overpowering the citrusy notes.
Onion Powder (1 tsp) – Enhances the overall seasoning with mild sweetness.
Lemon Pepper (1 tsp) – A zesty, peppery seasoning that brings out the best in chicken.
Crushed Red Pepper (½ tsp) – Adds a subtle kick of heat; adjust according to your spice preference.
Lemon Juice (1 lemon) – Fresh lemon juice tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with bright acidity.
Fresh Parsley (chopped) – A fresh, herby touch that enhances the presentation and flavor.
Salt & Pepper (to taste) – Essential for balancing all the flavors.
Garlic (4-5 cloves, minced) – Fresh garlic intensifies the flavor, making the dish extra aromatic.
How to Make Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, lemon pepper, crushed red pepper, salt, pepper, fresh lemon juice, and minced garlic. This marinade will infuse the chicken with bold flavors.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and coat them well with the marinade. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to an hour for even more flavor).
Step 3: Bake the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated chicken thighs on a lined baking sheet and bake for 40 minutes, basting the chicken with its juices every 10-15 minutes for extra flavor and moisture.
Step 4: Broil for a Crispy Finish
Switch the oven to low broil and let the chicken cook for an additional 5 minutes to achieve a golden-brown, crispytexture.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy with your favorite side dishes!
Tips for the Best Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs
Marinate for longer – If you have time, marinate for up to 24 hours for maximum flavor infusion.
Use fresh lemon juice – It makes a huge difference in brightness and taste compared to bottled lemon juice.
Don’t skip basting – This keeps the chicken incredibly juicy.
Want it crispier? – Let the chicken broil for an extra minute or two, but watch closely to prevent burning.
Pair with sides – This dish goes great with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bone-in chicken thighs?
Yes! Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs work great for this recipe. Increase the baking time to 45-50 minutes to ensure they cook through.
Can I cook this on the stovetop?
Absolutely! Sear the marinated chicken in a hot skillet over medium heat for 6-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Can I freeze marinated chicken thighs?
Yes! Place the marinated chicken in a freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.
These Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs are an easy and delicious dinner option that never disappoints. The combination of fresh lemon, garlic, and spices creates a dish that is both bold and comforting.
Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs
Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs are juicy, flavorful, and oven-baked to perfection. This easy recipe features a tangy, garlicky marinade and a crispy, golden-brown finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Ingredients
- Chicken Thighs (4 boneless, skinless)
- Olive Oil (2 tbsp)
- Garlic Powder (1 tsp)
- Onion Powder (1 tsp)
- Lemon Pepper (1 tsp)
- Crushed Red Pepper (½ tsp)
- Lemon Juice (1 lemon)
- Fresh Parsley (chopped)
- Salt & Pepper (to taste)
- Garlic (4-5 cloves, minced)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, lemon pepper, crushed red pepper, salt, pepper, fresh lemon juice, and minced garlic. This marinade will infuse the chicken with bold flavors.
- Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and coat them well with the marinade. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to an hour for even more flavor).
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated chicken thighs on a lined baking sheet and bake for 40 minutes, basting the chicken with its juices every 10-15 minutes for extra flavor and moisture.
- Switch the oven to low broil and let the chicken cook for an additional 5 minutes to achieve a golden-brown, crispy texture.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy with your favorite side dishes!
Notes
Tips for the Best Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs
- Marinate for longer – If you have time, marinate for up to 24 hours for maximum flavor infusion.
- Use fresh lemon juice – It makes a huge difference in brightness and taste compared to bottled lemon juice.
- Don’t skip basting – This keeps the chicken incredibly juicy.
- Want it crispier? – Let the chicken broil for an extra minute or two, but watch closely to prevent burning.
- Pair with sides – This dish goes great with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Give this recipe a try and let me know what you think! Leave a comment below or tag me on Instagram @cooksnapbake with your creations!
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