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Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs Recipe

Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs Recipe

Olivia Brooks
Make dinner simple with this Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs Recipe packed with garlic, fresh parsley, and citrusy flavor.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 380 kcal

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Microplane or fine grater (for lemon zest)
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring spoons
  • Cast iron skillet or oven-safe pan (or a baking dish)
  • Tongs
  • Instant-read thermometer (optional but helpful)

Ingredients
  

  • 6 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter optional but delicious
  • Zest of 2 fresh lemons
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt adjust to taste
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

  • Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This is very important. Dry skin equals crispy skin. If there is moisture on the surface, it will steam instead of crisp.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

  • In a large bowl, combine olive oil, melted butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, cracked black pepper, salt, minced garlic, oregano, onion powder, and paprika. Mix well until everything is combined and fragrant.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

  • Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and massage the marinade all over them. Make sure you get under the skin too. That’s where the flavor really seeps in.
  • Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, refrigerate for 2–4 hours.

Step 4: Preheat the Oven

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If using a cast iron skillet, place it inside the oven while it preheats. A hot pan helps create a better sear.

Step 5: Sear (Optional but Recommended)

  • If you want extra crispy skin, heat your skillet on medium-high and place the chicken skin-side down. Cook for about 4–5 minutes until the skin turns golden brown.

Step 6: Bake

  • Transfer the skillet to the oven (or place the chicken in a baking dish) and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Step 7: Rest and Garnish

  • Let the chicken rest for 5–10 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
Keyword Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs Recipe