Crispy Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe

Looking for a delicious, easy-to-make dish that’s both crispy and full of flavor? Look no further than Crispy Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken. This recipe combines the tangy zest of lemon with the spicy kick of black pepper, resulting in a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Best of all, it’s baked to crispy perfection, making it a healthier alternative to fried chicken. Here’s how to make this delightful dish.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika

For the Lemon Pepper Seasoning:

• Zest of 2 lemons
• 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)

For Garnish:

• Fresh lemon slices
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Procedure

1. Preheat the Oven
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
2. Prepare the Chicken
   • Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy skin. Place the chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Season the Chicken
   • In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Rub this mixture evenly over the chicken thighs, ensuring that all sides are well-coated.
4. Prepare the Lemon Pepper Seasoning
   • In a separate bowl, combine the lemon zest, freshly ground black pepper, salt, thyme, and oregano. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the chicken thighs.
5. Bake the Chicken
   • Drizzle the olive oil over the seasoned chicken thighs. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
6. Rest and Serve
   • Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring moist and flavorful meat.
7. Garnish
   • Garnish the crispy baked lemon pepper chicken with fresh lemon slices and chopped parsley. The fresh lemon slices add an extra burst of citrus flavor, while the parsley provides a pop of color.
8. Enjoy
   • Serve the chicken hot, accompanied by your favorite side dishes such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.

Crispy Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken is a simple yet impressive dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The combination of lemon zest and black pepper creates a flavorful crust that enhances the juicy, tender chicken. By baking instead of frying, you get all the crispiness you crave without the extra calories. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delightful, healthy meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table!