Lemon Pepper Chicken Legs and Thighs

Picture this: crispy, golden-brown chicken legs and thighs bursting with a zesty, tangy lemon pepper flavor. The skin is perfectly seasoned, with just the right amount of crispness, and the meat is juicy and tender. This Lemon Pepper Chicken is everything you could want in a simple, flavorful dish that’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but delicious enough to impress your guests. Whether you’re grilling or baking, these chicken pieces are packed with citrusy goodness and a kick of peppery heat. Trust me—once you try it, you’ll want to make this again and again!

Why You’ll Love Lemon Pepper Chicken Legs and Thighs

• Bold Flavors: The combination of lemon and black pepper brings a bright, zesty punch, while the chicken remains juicy and tender. It’s a perfect balance of bold and fresh!
• Super Easy: This dish is simple to prepare with minimal effort. It’s the perfect recipe when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Versatile: It pairs well with a variety of sides, from mashed potatoes to steamed vegetables, or even a fresh salad. Whether it’s a family meal or a dinner party, it’s a guaranteed hit.
• Crispy Skin: The seasoning creates a beautiful, crispy outer layer that enhances the flavor of the chicken. Who doesn’t love that crispy skin?

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 chicken legs (drumsticks)
• 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps to crisp up the chicken and enhance the flavors.
• 2 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning: The star of the show, bringing that bold, citrusy flavor.
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest: Adds an extra burst of fresh lemon flavor.
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder: For a savory undertone that balances out the brightness of the lemon.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic and rounds out the flavor profile.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a subtle herbal note that works beautifully with the chicken.
• Salt and pepper to taste: To enhance the overall seasoning.

(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Here’s how to make this zesty and flavorful lemon pepper chicken:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat will give the chicken skin that perfectly crispy texture.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken legs and thighs dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up nicely. Place the chicken on a large baking sheet.
3. Season the Chicken: Drizzle the chicken with olive oil, making sure to coat each piece. Then sprinkle the lemon pepper seasoning, lemon zest, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme over the chicken. Don’t forget to season with a little salt and pepper to taste.
4. Roast in the Oven: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and crispy. Make sure to flip the chicken halfway through the cooking As an Amazon Associate, we earn a small commission from qualifying purchases made through our affiliate links, at no extra cost to you. Our recommendations are always honest and unbiased. Thank you for your support! time for even crisping.
5. Rest and Serve: Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes to retain its juices. This is the perfect time to prepare your sides!
6. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the chicken hot with your favorite sides, like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad.

How to Serve Lemon Pepper Chicken Legs and Thighs

• On Its Own: Perfectly flavorful on its own, especially with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top right before serving.
• With Vegetables: Pair it with steamed broccoli, roasted carrots, or sautéed spinach for a fresh, well-rounded meal.
• With a Side Salad: A light, crisp salad with a simple vinaigrette pairs beautifully with this zesty chicken.
• Over Rice or Pasta: Serve it on top of a bed of fluffy rice or with pasta for a filling meal.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 300
Total Fat: 18g

• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
  Cholesterol: 100mg
  Sodium: 600mg
  Total Carbohydrates: 1g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 0g
  Protein: 33g
  Vitamin A: 6%
  Vitamin C: 15%
  Calcium: 2%
  Iron: 8%

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-45 minutes
• Total Time: 45-50 minutes

Additional Tips

• Grilling Option: If you prefer grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Crispier Skin: If you like your skin extra crispy, you can broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking As an Amazon Associate, we earn a small commission from qualifying purchases made through our affiliate links, at no extra cost to you. Our recommendations are always honest and unbiased. Thank you for your support! to get an extra golden finish.
• Make It Spicy: If you enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the seasoning mix.
• Use Boneless: You can make this recipe with boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, but adjust the cooking As an Amazon Associate, we earn a small commission from qualifying purchases made through our affiliate links, at no extra cost to you. Our recommendations are always honest and unbiased. Thank you for your support! time to ensure it doesn’t dry out.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this dish with boneless chicken?
A1: Yes, you can! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time since boneless chicken will cook faster. For chicken breasts, cook for about 20-25 minutes.

Q2: How do I know when the chicken is done?
A2: The best way to check is with a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.

Q3: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A3: Yes, you can prepare and season the chicken ahead of time, then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking. When ready, just pop it in the oven.

Q4: Can I use chicken wings instead of legs and thighs?
A4: Yes, you can! Cooking time may need to be reduced, so check the internal temperature after about 25 minutes.

Q5: Can I make this recipe on the grill instead of the oven?
A5: Yes! Grill the chicken on medium-high heat for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until it reaches 165°F (74°C).

Q6: What can I serve with this chicken?
A6: Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad make excellent sides for this dish.

Q7: Can I add more spices to the seasoning mix?
A7: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with additional spices like paprika, cayenne, or Italian seasoning for a personal touch.

Q8: Can I use skinless chicken for this recipe?
A8: Yes, but the chicken won’t be as crispy. You might want to increase the cook time slightly to make sure it’s cooked through.

Q9: How can I store leftovers?
A9: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Q10: Can I freeze this recipe?
A10: Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Reheat in the oven when ready to eat.

Conclusion

These Lemon Pepper Chicken Legs and Thighs are the perfect combination of crispy, juicy, and tangy flavors that will leave everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re making them for a casual dinner or an impressive weekend meal, this dish is sure to please! Simple, flavorful, and so easy to make—give it a try and let the zesty goodness shine!

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