Name: Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs Baked
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 4 thighs Chicken Thighs (Bone-in, skin-on for best flavor.); 2 tsp Lemon Pepper Seasoning; 1 tbsp Olive Oil; 1 tbsp Lemon Juice

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight dinner: lemon pepper chicken thighs baked to perfection! It’s one of those dishes that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, and trust me, it’ll impress anyone sitting at your table. The juicy, tender meat pairs beautifully with the bright, zesty kick of lemon and the warm spice of pepper. I mean, what’s not to love, right? It’s a dish that fills your home with the most mouthwatering aroma while it bakes away in the oven, making it feel like a cozy restaurant meal without the fuss. And the best part? You can whip this up in just about 50 minutes! Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just treating yourself, these lemon pepper chicken thighs baked are a surefire hit. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to make those delightful lemon pepper chicken thighs baked. I promise, it’s super simple!

For the Chicken:

4 Chicken Thighs – Bone-in, skin-on for the best flavor and juiciness. Trust me, you want that crispy skin!

For the Seasoning:

2 tsp Lemon Pepper Seasoning – This is where the magic happens; it adds that zesty spark!
1 tbsp Olive Oil – For coating the chicken and helping the seasoning stick.
1 tbsp Lemon Juice – Freshly squeezed is always best, but bottled works in a pinch!

How to Prepare Instructions

Alright, let’s get down to business! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have the most succulent lemon pepper chicken thighs baked in no time. Ready? Let’s go!

Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is super important because you want your chicken to cook evenly and get that lovely golden color.
Mix the seasoning: In a medium bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and 2 teaspoons of lemon pepper seasoning. Give it a good stir until everything is well blended. That zesty aroma will definitely get your taste buds excited!
Coat the chicken: Take those beautiful chicken thighs and coat them generously with the seasoning mixture. Make sure to cover all sides so every bite is bursting with flavor. I like to use my hands for this part; just make sure to wash them afterward!
Time to bake: Place the seasoned chicken thighs in a baking dish, skin-side up. Pop them into your preheated oven and let them bake for about 40 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the skin is crispy, and the juices run clear. If you have a meat thermometer handy, the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked chicken.

And there you have it! Just four easy steps to a delicious dinner. Don’t forget to check the chicken around the 35-minute mark to avoid overcooking. Enjoy the mouthwatering scent filling your kitchen while you wait!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let me tell you why lemon pepper chicken thighs baked is a game-changer for dinner time! Here are just a few reasons you’ll adore this recipe:

Quick Preparation Time: With just 10 minutes of prep, you can have a delicious meal on the table in under an hour!
Easy Cleanup: Since you’re baking everything in one dish, cleanup is a breeze. Less time scrubbing means more time enjoying your meal!
Flavorful and Juicy Chicken: The combination of lemon and pepper creates a bright, zesty flavor that perfectly complements the juicy, tender chicken thighs.
Perfect for Weeknight Dinners: This dish is simple enough for a regular weeknight but impressive enough to serve to guests. You’ll feel like a culinary superstar with minimal effort!

Equipment List

To whip up these scrumptious lemon pepper chicken thighs baked, you won’t need much—just a few key pieces of equipment to make the magic happen!

Oven: Your trusty oven is the star of the show here! Preheating it ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and gets that perfect crispy skin.
Baking Dish: A sturdy baking dish is essential for holding those juicy chicken thighs. I recommend using a 9×13 inch glass or ceramic dish; it helps with even cooking and makes for a beautiful presentation.

That’s it! With these two simple tools in your kitchen, you’re all set to create a delightful dinner that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your lemon pepper chicken thighs baked turn out absolutely perfect! I’ve got some pro tips that’ll elevate your dish and make you look like a total kitchen rockstar.

Seasoning Adjustments: Don’t be afraid to tweak the lemon pepper seasoning to your taste! If you like it spicy, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some crushed red pepper flakes. For a more herbal touch, consider mixing in dried thyme or rosemary. Just remember, a little goes a long way!
Cooking Times: Every oven is a bit different, so keep an eye on your chicken as it bakes. If you’re using larger thighs, they may need an extra 5-10 minutes. Conversely, if your chicken is smaller, check it early to avoid overcooking. Better safe than sorry!
Checking for Doneness: While the meat thermometer is your best friend (aim for that 165°F or 75°C mark), you can also use the trusty visual cues. Look for crispy, golden skin and juices that run clear when pierced. If the juices are still pink, pop it back in for a few more minutes!
Let It Rest: Once your chicken comes out of the oven, give it a few minutes to rest before diving in. This allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite incredibly juicy and flavorful.
Serving Suggestions: Pair your lemon pepper chicken thighs with a refreshing side salad or some roasted veggies to balance out the meal. You can even serve it over rice or quinoa to soak up those tasty juices!

With these tips, you’re all set to create an amazing dish that’s bursting with flavor! Enjoy the process and savor every delicious bite!

Variations

One of the best things about lemon pepper chicken thighs baked is how versatile it can be! If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to mix things up a bit, here are some fun variations to consider:

Herb Infusions: Instead of just lemon and pepper, why not add some fresh herbs? Chopped rosemary or thyme can add a lovely earthy note. You could even experiment with fresh parsley or dill for a brighter flavor!
Spicy Kick: If you love a bit of heat, add some cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix. This will give your chicken a delightful kick that pairs beautifully with the citrusy lemon.
Garlic Lover’s Delight: For garlic enthusiasts, mix in some minced garlic or garlic powder with your seasoning. The garlic’s rich flavor will complement the lemon and pepper perfectly!
Change Up the Citrus: Try swapping lemon juice for fresh lime or orange juice. Each citrus brings its unique twist to the dish while still keeping that zesty flavor profile.
Different Cooking Methods: If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, consider grilling your chicken thighs instead of baking them. This adds a smoky flavor and gives you those beautiful grill marks. Just be sure to marinate the chicken for at least an hour before grilling!
Marinade Magic: For even more flavor, marinate your chicken thighs overnight in the lemon juice and olive oil mixture. This will infuse the meat with a deeper, more robust taste!

These variations allow you to get creative and customize the recipe to suit your taste buds. Feel free to mix and match ideas, and most importantly, have fun with it! Your dinner will be delicious no matter which route you choose!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So you’ve made a delicious batch of lemon pepper chicken thighs baked, and now you’ve got some leftovers? No worries! Here’s how to store and reheat them so they stay just as tasty as when they first came out of the oven.

Storing Leftovers: Allow the chicken thighs to cool to room temperature before storing them. I recommend placing them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They’ll last in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days, so you can enjoy that zesty goodness for a few meals! If you want to keep them longer, feel free to freeze them. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instructions: When it’s time to enjoy those leftovers, you’ll want to reheat them gently to keep all that juicy flavor intact. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet and cover them with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Heat them in the oven for about 15-20 minutes or until they’re warmed through. If you’re in a rush, you can also use the microwave, but I recommend doing it in short bursts on medium power, checking frequently to ensure they don’t get rubbery.

And there you have it! Storing and reheating your lemon pepper chicken thighs baked is a breeze, allowing you to enjoy this scrumptious dish even after the first round. Happy eating!

Nutritional Information Section

Alright, let’s chat about the nutritional side of these lemon pepper chicken thighs baked! It’s always good to know what you’re fueling your body with. Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional values for one serving, which includes one chicken thigh:

Calories: 350
Protein: 26g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 130mg
Sodium: 300mg
Potassium: 350mg
Carbohydrates: 0g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 0g
Vitamin C: 1% of the Daily Value
Iron: 5% of the Daily Value

These values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, but this gives you a good idea of what to expect. The protein from the chicken makes it a satisfying option, while the healthy fats from the olive oil keep things flavorful. Enjoy your meal while feeling good about what you’re eating!

FAQ Section

Got questions about lemon pepper chicken thighs baked? I’ve got answers! Here are some common inquiries that might help you out.

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of bone-in? Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs will work just fine, but keep an eye on the cooking time since they may cook a bit faster. Aim for about 30-35 minutes or until they reach that delicious 165°F (75°C).
What if I don’t have lemon pepper seasoning? No problem! You can easily make your own by combining equal parts of freshly ground black pepper, lemon zest, and a little bit of salt. If you’re in a pinch, just use regular pepper and a splash of lemon juice instead for a similar flavor.
How should I store leftover lemon pepper chicken thighs baked? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil. They can last in the freezer for up to 3 months!
What sides pair well with this dish? You can’t go wrong with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad! Rice or quinoa also works beautifully to soak up those flavorful juices. It’s all about what you love!
How can I ensure my chicken is cooked evenly? Great question! Make sure to arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer in the baking dish, skin-side up. This ensures they cook evenly and get that lovely crispy skin. And remember to check for doneness around the 35-minute mark!

Hopefully, these answers help you feel more confident about making your lemon pepper chicken thighs baked! If you have other questions, feel free to ask. Happy cooking!

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