Description
This recipe for Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs delivers a delicious and simple meal. It features juicy, tender chicken thighs infused with the bright zest of lemon and the bold flavor of black pepper. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare.
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 by combining lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and dried thyme in a large mixing bowl. Stir until well combined.
- Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, making sure they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Arrange the marinated chicken thighs skin-side up in a single layer in a baking dish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The skin should be golden brown and crispy.
- For extra crispiness, you can broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh ingredients.
- Adjust marinating and cooking times based on your preference and equipment.
- Resting the chicken after cooking is crucial for juiciness.
- A meat thermometer ensures the chicken is cooked to the correct temperature.
- This recipe can be made ahead by marinating the chicken in advance.
- 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