Description
Zesty lemon pepper chicken thighs bring Mediterranean sunshine to dinner tables with bold, tangy flavors. Crispy skin and juicy meat create a simple yet sophisticated meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
Liquid and Oil:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Garnish:
- Lemon slices
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare a zesty marinade by whisking together olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, black pepper, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and optional red pepper flakes in a large mixing bowl.
- Add chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Allow the chicken to absorb flavors for 30 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate up to 2 hours.
- Heat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Transfer marinated chicken thighs skin-side up into a baking dish, pouring any remaining marinade over the top.
- Optionally, arrange fresh lemon slices on the chicken for enhanced aroma and presentation.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes until the chicken achieves a golden-brown color and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Remove from oven and let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes to retain moisture and allow juices to redistribute.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve alongside complementary side dishes like steamed vegetables or fluffy rice.
Notes
- Marinate Mindfully: Let the chicken soak up the zesty marinade for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor depth and tenderness.
- Skin Perfection: For extra crispy skin, pat the chicken thighs dry before marinating and ensure they’re placed skin-side up in the baking dish.
- Temperature Check: Always use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption without overcooking.
- Dietary Adaptations: Swap chicken thighs with tofu or boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner protein option, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for marinating)
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg