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Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 50 reviews
  • Author: Hugo
  • Total Time: 12 hours 45 minutes (including overnight marination)
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

This Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs recipe features juicy, bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs marinated in a zesty blend of lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, and a generous amount of lemon pepper seasoning. The chicken is oven-baked to perfection with crisped skin, making for a flavorful, juicy, and aromatic dish perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade

  • 2–2.5 Pounds Chicken Thighs, bone-in and skin-on
  • 3 Tablespoons Olive Oil
  • Zest and juice of 1 medium lemon
  • 2 ½ Tablespoons Lemon Pepper Seasoning
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black Pepper, to taste
  • 1 Tablespoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 Tablespoon Onion Powder
  • 1 Tablespoon Minced Garlic
  • 2 Tablespoons Fresh Parsley, chopped

Garnish

  • 1 medium lemon, cut into pieces
  • Additional ½ Tablespoon Lemon Pepper Seasoning (for sprinkling)

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken thighs with olive oil, lemon zest and juice from one lemon, 2 tablespoons of lemon pepper seasoning, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Massage the marinade thoroughly into the chicken thighs to ensure even coating.
  2. Prepare for Refrigeration: 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 tightly and refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat deeply.
  3. Preheat the Oven and Garnish: When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place lemon pieces atop the chicken thighs as a garnish to enhance flavor during baking.
  4. Bake the Chicken: Place the uncovered baking dish with the chicken on the center rack of the preheated oven. Bake for 40 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through while remaining juicy.
  5. Broil for Crispiness: After baking, switch the oven to broil. Broil the chicken for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, watching carefully to crisp the skin without burning.
  6. Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Serve warm, garnished with the baked lemon pieces for added zest and visual appeal. Enjoy your flavorful lemon pepper chicken thighs!

Notes

  • Marinating the chicken overnight enhances the flavor and tenderness significantly.
  • Use bone-in, skin-on thighs for the best flavor and juiciness.
  • Adjust salt and lemon pepper seasoning to taste, especially if using a pre-salted lemon pepper blend.
  • Keep an eye on the chicken while broiling to avoid burning the skin.
  • Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Lemon Pepper Chicken, Chicken Thighs, Oven Baked Chicken, Easy Chicken Recipe, Marinated Chicken Thighs, Crispy Chicken Skin, Weeknight Dinner

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Find it online: https://flavorsbyhugo.com/lemon-pepper-chicken-thighs-recipe/