Description
This Lemon Pepper Chicken Legs and Thighs recipe features juicy, flavorful chicken pieces seasoned with a bright and zesty lemon pepper mix, baked to crispy golden perfection. Easy to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner, this dish combines classic Mediterranean herbs with a hint of smoked paprika for a smoky undertone, delivering a balanced and delicious meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (about 1 lemon)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for a smoky flavor)
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)
Garnish (Optional)
- Fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken legs and thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring the skin crisps up nicely during baking.
- Make the Seasoning Mixture: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, smoked paprika (if using), freshly ground black pepper, and sea salt. Stir well to create a flavorful lemon pepper seasoning.
- Season the Chicken: Rub the lemon pepper seasoning mixture evenly all over the chicken legs and thighs, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated. Optionally, marinate for 15-30 minutes to let the flavors deepen.
- Arrange for Baking: Place the chicken pieces skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart for even cooking and crisping.
- Bake the Chicken: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is golden and crispy. For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute and keep the meat tender.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired, and serve alongside your favorite side dishes for a complete meal.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken for 15-30 minutes enhances flavor but is optional for a quicker meal.
- Using bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces helps retain moisture and achieves a crispy texture.
- You can swap smoked paprika with regular paprika if you prefer less smokiness.
- Letting the chicken rest before serving ensures juiciness and better texture.
- Broiling the chicken for a few extra minutes at the end crisps the skin further but watch closely to prevent burning.
