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Oven Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs Recipe


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4.1 from 156 reviews

  • Author: Ezabella
  • Total Time: 55 minutes (plus marinating time)
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

This Oven Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs recipe delivers juicy, flavorful chicken with a zesty lemon and pepper marinade. Easy to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner, the chicken is marinated, then baked to crispy, tender perfection at 400°F. The bright lemon zest and juice combined with classic seasonings create a balanced and savory taste that pairs well with various sides.


Ingredients

Chicken

  • 4 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs

Marinade & Seasoning

  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon lemon zest, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons olive oil. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended and set aside.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the bone-in skin-on chicken thighs in a large zip-lock bag. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, seal the bag tightly, and shake well to evenly coat each piece with the seasoning mixture.
  3. Refrigerate: Refrigerate the marinating chicken for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat deeply.
  4. Preheat the Oven: When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C) to ensure even baking and crispy skin.
  5. Bake the Chicken: Arrange the marinated chicken thighs on a baking sheet fitted with a wire rack to allow air circulation beneath for crispy skin. Bake at 400°F for 40-45 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the meat is cooked through.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
  • Using a wire rack on the baking sheet helps achieve crispier skin by allowing air to circulate under the chicken.
  • Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer for best results.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Serve with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American