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As the sun set, it was time to make a quick, tasty meal. Lemon pepper chicken thighs were a favorite in our home. They always made everyone happy and full.
This recipe is great for busy weeknights. It’s fast, flavorful, and easy to make. The lemon and black pepper mix perfectly with the chicken. You’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Why This Recipe Will Become Your New Favorite
Looking for easy weeknight dinners that won’t break the bank? This lemon pepper chicken thighs recipe is perfect. It’s quick, delicious, and great for families.
Perfect for Busy Weeknights
This one-pan meal cooks in just 30 minutes. It’s a lifesaver on busy nights. Just season the chicken, sear it, and bake. It’s simple and tasty.
Budget-Friendly Choice
Chicken thighs are cheap, making this easy weeknight dinner affordable. The lemon pepper seasoning adds flavor without costing a lot.
Foolproof Results Every Time
Even beginners can make this chicken recipe easily. The simple steps and baking method mean juicy, crispy chicken every time. It’s perfect for family dinners or parties.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs
To make the best lemon pepper chicken thighs, start with bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. They taste better and stay juicier than boneless ones. The lemon pepper seasoning is key, giving the chicken a zesty, peppery flavor.
Fresh lemon juice and zest add a bright, citrusy taste. A drizzle of honey balances the acidity. You’ll also need olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, and fresh parsley. Optional additions like red pepper flakes or chicken bouillon seasoning can add more spice and savory flavors.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs | 8 pieces (approximately 800g) |
| Lemon pepper seasoning | 2 tablespoons |
| Lemon juice | 3 tablespoons |
| Lemon zest | 1 tablespoon |
| Honey | 2 tablespoons |
| Olive oil | 4 tablespoons |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Onion powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | 2 tablespoons |
| Red pepper flakes (optional) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Chicken bouillon seasoning (optional) | 1 teaspoon |
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make delicious lemon pepper chicken thighs.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make perfect one-pan lemon pepper chicken thighs, you need some key tools and equipment. The right cookware and measuring tools are crucial. They help you get delicious, crispy chicken every time.
Essential Cookware
You’ll need a large, oven-safe skillet or pan. It should be at least 12 inches wide to fit the chicken thighs well. A heavy-duty, nonstick pan is best for even cooking and easy cleaning.
Measuring Tools
Accurate ingredient measurements are key for this recipe. Make sure you have measuring cups and spoons for the lemon juice, butter, and spices. A zester or microplane grater is also useful for grating lemon zest.
Additional Equipment
- Small mixing bowl for combining the lemon pepper seasoning
- Tongs or a pair of kitchen fork for handling the chicken thighs
- Oven mitts or kitchen towels to protect your hands when removing the hot pan from the oven
With these essential kitchen tools and one-pan meals equipment, you’re ready to make delicious lemon pepper chicken thighs.
Choosing and Preparing Your Chicken Thighs
For the best taste and juiciness, pick skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs. These will be more tender and flavorful than boneless, skinless ones. Before seasoning, dry the chicken with paper towels.
After prepping your chicken thighs, season them well. Start with salt and black pepper. Then, squeeze fresh lemon juice over each piece. The lemon’s acidity will enhance the flavors and make the meat tender. You can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken breasts, but they won’t be as flavorful.
- Chicken breasts can be used as an alternative, but they cook faster, so reduce the cooking time by 5-10 minutes.
- Chicken thighs can be meal prepped and stay flavorful for up to 4 days in the fridge.
- Fresh lemon juice and zest are recommended for optimal flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used as a substitute.
Easy Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs
With your bone-in chicken thighs seasoned, you’re ready to make a tasty lemon pepper chicken dish. Just follow the cooking steps in the next section for crispy skin and juicy meat.
The Secret to Perfect Lemon Pepper Seasoning
Lemon pepper seasoning is a mix of tangy lemon and spicy black pepper. It makes your citrus chicken dishes taste better. You can buy it or make your own to control the flavors.
Homemade vs. Store-Bought Options
Making your own lemon pepper seasoning is easy. You need lemon zest, black pepper, and spices like garlic powder. This lets you play with flavors and make it your own.
Store-bought lemon pepper seasoning is quick and easy. It’s balanced and consistent. But, you might need to adjust how much you use for the taste you want.
Proper Seasoning Ratios
Using the right amount of seasoning is key, whether homemade or store-bought. Use about 1 tablespoon of seasoning for 4-6 chicken thighs. This keeps the flavors balanced.
The exact amount might vary based on your taste and chicken size. Start with the suggested amount and adjust as needed to get the flavor right.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Get ready to enjoy the tantalizing flavors of baked chicken thighs and lemon pepper chicken thighs in just 30 minutes! Follow these easy steps to create a delicious and perfectly seasoned dish.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F. This high temperature is key for achieving crispy, golden-brown skin on your lemon pepper chicken thighs.
- In a small bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter, 1 tablespoon of salt-free lemon pepper seasoning blend, and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Mix well to create a flavorful lemon pepper butter.
- Place 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 pounds total) in a baking dish or on a rimmed baking sheet. Using your hands, coat the chicken evenly with the lemon pepper butter mixture, ensuring every nook and cranny is covered.
- Cut a small lemon in half and slice it thinly. Arrange the lemon slices on top of the chicken thighs. This will infuse the meat with a bright, citrusy aroma and flavor as it bakes.
- Bake the baked chicken thighs for 25-35 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of your chicken pieces.
- Once the lemon pepper chicken thighs are cooked through, sprinkle 2 tablespoons of coarsely chopped fresh parsley leaves over the top for a vibrant, herbal finish.
And there you have it! Perfectly tender, juicy, and flavorful baked chicken thighs with a delightful lemon pepper twist. Enjoy this easy-to-make dish as the star of your weeknight dinner or serve it up for a special occasion. The possibilities are endless when you master this lemon pepper chicken thighs recipe.
Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs
Tips for Achieving Crispy Skin
Getting crispy, golden-brown skin on your baked crispy-skinned chicken and baked chicken thighs makes your meal special. To get your chicken thighs crispy every time, follow these key tips:
Temperature Control
First, preheat your oven to about 400°F (200°C). This high heat helps melt the fat in the skin, making it crispy. Then, lower the oven to 375°F (190°C) to avoid burning the skin.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the pan: Make sure the chicken thighs have enough room in the pan. This lets air circulate and helps them brown evenly. Too much chicken can make them steam instead of crisp.
- Excessive flipping: Don’t flip the chicken too much. Let it cook without moving, so the skin gets golden and crispy.
- Wet or damp skin: Dry the chicken thighs with paper towels before seasoning. This removes moisture and helps the skin crisp up in the oven.
By avoiding these mistakes and following these tips, you’ll get perfect crispy-skinned chicken and baked chicken thighs every time.
Best Side Dishes to Serve
Lemon Pepper Chicken is a hit for easy weeknight dinners. It’s great with many side dishes. You can choose from creamy mashed potatoes to fresh salads.
For a cozy meal, try mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or garlic bread. These soak up the chicken’s sauce well. For a healthier option, roasted veggies like broccoli or carrots are perfect. A crisp salad adds a refreshing touch.
Looking for low-carb options? Skip the starchy sides for more veggies. Cauliflower rice or grilled veggies are tasty and light. Lemon Pepper Chicken goes well with many sides, fitting different tastes and diets.