Dinner

Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs Recipe

Name: Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: PT-490758H26M56S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2-2.5 Pounds Chicken Thighs, bone in and skin on; 3 Tbs Olive Oil; Zest and juice of 1 medium lemon; 2 ½ Tbs Lemon Pepper Seasoning (divided); Salt and Pepper, to taste; 1 Tbs Garlic Powder; 1 Tbs Onion Powder; 1 Tbs Minced Garlic; 2 Tbs Fresh Parsley, chopped; 1 medium lemon, cut into pieces for garnish

Bylina Carter December 14, 2025December 14, 2025

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Introduction

Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs are a flavorful and juicy meal perfect for any night of the week. With a bright lemony zest and the boldness of pepper, this dish is simple to prepare and delivers a deliciously crispy skin every time.

This image shows a white baking dish filled with cooked chicken thighs. The chicken has three visible layers: a crispy golden-brown skin on top with dark brown charred spots, a moist, slightly pink layer of cooked chicken meat underneath, and pieces of roasted garlic and herbs scattered on and around the chicken. The baking dish holds a yellowish broth with visible herbs and some oil, giving a shiny texture to the dish. A white spoon holds up one piece of chicken close to the camera, showing more detail of the crispy skin and roasted garlic. The whole scene is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2-2.5 Pounds Chicken Thighs, bone in and skin on
2 Med Lemons (one for the zest & juice and the other for a garnish)

2 ½ Tablespoons Lemon Pepper Seasoning
Salt and Pepper, to taste

1 Tablespoon Garlic Powder
1 Tablespoon Onion Powder

3 Tablespoons Olive Oil
2 Tablespoons Fresh Parsley, chopped
1 Tablespoon Minced Garlic

Instructions

Step 1: Add the chicken thighs to a marinating bowl. Pour in olive oil, lemon zest and juice from one lemon, 2 tablespoons of lemon pepper seasoning, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, minced garlic, and chopped parsley.
Step 2: Massage the ingredients into the chicken thighs thoroughly until everything is evenly combined.
Step 3: Arrange the chicken thighs side by side in a baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining lemon pepper seasoning evenly over the top. Cover the dish and place it in the refrigerator to marinate overnight.

Step 4: When ready to cook, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Add cut pieces of the second lemon over the chicken for garnish.
Step 5: Place the baking dish on the center rack of the oven, uncovered, and bake for 40 minutes.
Step 6: Switch the oven to broil and cook the chicken for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and golden.

Step 7: Let the chicken cool slightly before serving warm. Enjoy your flavorful lemon pepper chicken thighs!

Tips & Variations

For extra crispiness, pat the chicken skin dry before marinating.
Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade for a subtle spicy kick.

If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can be used, but fresh lemons provide the best flavor.
Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad to balance the flavors.

Storage

Store leftover lemon pepper chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving to keep the skin crispy.