Description
Super easy lemon pepper chicken thighs are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and bursting with zesty lemon and bold pepper flavor. A simple, one-pan recipe perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp lemon pepper seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp salt (optional, based on seasoning)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) or heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels for crispy skin.
- Mix lemon pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and salt (if using) in a small bowl.
- Rub olive oil over the chicken, then coat with seasoning mix, including under the skin if possible.
- For oven-roasting: Place thighs skin-side up on a baking sheet or in a cast-iron skillet. Roast for 35–40 minutes, until skin is crispy and internal temperature is 165°F (74°C).
- For stovetop: Sear chicken skin-side down in a hot, oiled skillet for 7–8 minutes. Flip and cook another 6–8 minutes, covering the skillet to finish cooking.
- Squeeze lemon juice over the chicken before serving and garnish with parsley if desired.
Notes
- Add red pepper flakes for heat.
- Use lemon slices while roasting for extra flavor.
- Boneless thighs work well—reduce cook time.
- Great for meal prep or salads and wraps.
- Leftovers reheat well and freeze easily.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
