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Crispy Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs Sheet Pan Dinner

crispy lemon pepper chicken thighs - featured image
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A quick and easy sheet pan dinner featuring golden, crispy-skinned chicken thighs bursting with lemony brightness and peppery punch, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 3 pounds)
  • Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 ½ teaspoons freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning (optional)
  • 1 pound baby potatoes, halved or quartered (optional)
  • 8 ounces green beans or asparagus spears (optional)
  • 2 medium carrots, sliced (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and place them in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Add olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and dried thyme to the chicken. Toss well to coat evenly.
  4. If using vegetables, toss baby potatoes, green beans, and carrots in a separate bowl with 1 tablespoon olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper.
  5. Arrange chicken thighs skin-side up on a sheet pan or wire rack spaced about 1 inch apart. Scatter vegetables around the chicken.
  6. Roast in the oven for 30-35 minutes. Halfway through, turn the vegetables with tongs for even cooking. Do not flip the chicken.
  7. Check doneness with an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of a thigh; it should read 160°F (71°C).
  8. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with lemon wedges or chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Patting the chicken dry before seasoning is crucial for crispy skin. Use a wire rack for extra crispiness if available. Broil for 1-2 minutes at the end if skin isn’t crispy enough. Rest chicken before serving to keep it juicy. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat in oven to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon pepper chicken, sheet pan dinner, crispy chicken thighs, easy chicken recipe, weeknight dinner, roasted vegetables

Find it online: https://lunafeast.com/crispy-lemon-pepper-chicken-thighs-sheet-pan-dinner-recipe-easy-and-perfect/