Description
These Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs are a perfectly seasoned and juicy dish featuring bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs marinated overnight in a zesty lemon pepper blend. Baked to crispy, golden perfection and garnished with fresh lemon slices and parsley, they make a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 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
Garnish
- 1 medium lemon, cut into pieces for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to a large bowl along with olive oil, lemon zest and juice, 2 tablespoons of lemon pepper seasoning, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Massage the marinade thoroughly into the chicken thighs until evenly coated.
- Refrigerate Overnight: Arrange the marinated chicken thighs side by side in a baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ tablespoon of lemon pepper seasoning evenly over the top. Cover the dish and refrigerate overnight to allow flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Prepare Oven and Garnish: When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Place cut lemon pieces on top of the chicken thighs for added flavor and presentation.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the baking dish uncovered on the center rack of the oven. Bake the chicken thighs for 40 minutes until they are cooked through and reach a safe internal temperature.
- Broil for Crispy Skin: After baking, switch the oven to broil and broil the chicken thighs for an additional 3 to 5 minutes. Watch carefully to crisp and brown the skin without burning.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve warm, garnished with the roasted lemon pieces and a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
- Marinating overnight enhances the lemon pepper flavor and ensures tender chicken.
- Use bone-in, skin-on thighs for best texture and flavor.
- Watch closely during broiling to avoid burning the skin.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: lemon pepper chicken, baked chicken thighs, lemon chicken recipe, easy chicken dinner, roasted chicken thighs
