Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs – Kicking Carbs

Published: Jun 7, 2023 by Wendy Polisi Modified: Jun 6, 2023 · 923 words. · Approximately 5 minutes to read this article.

Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs can be prepared with just a handful of simple ingredients and require less than 10 minutes of active preparation time. By baking the chicken thighs, you’ll achieve juicy meat enveloped in a delightfully crispy skin. Join me as I guide you through the steps, complete with valuable tips and images to help make this enticing dish simple. Get ready to wow your friends and family with this easy, delectable recipe!

If you’re searching for a tasty and wholesome option that’s low in carbs, gluten-free, and keto-friendly, look no further than oven-baked lemon pepper chicken thighs!

This recipe highlights succulent chicken thighs that are richly flavored with zesty lemon pepper, making it a tasty dish that’s simple to whip up.

Your family members, even those who aren’t focused on their carb intake, will appreciate the fresh and lively flavors packed into this dish!

So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and prepare to create lemon pepper thighs that are not only delicious but also suitable for various dietary preferences!

Ingredients

• Lemon Pepper: A seasoning blend that consists of lemon zest, pepper, and other spices, readily available in the spice aisles of most grocery stores. In the absence of lemon pepper, a mix of black pepper and lemon zest will work.
• Italian Seasoning: This seasoning mix includes popular Italian herbs such as oregano, basil, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram. A jar of this blend can often be found in my kitchen; however, you can create your own if preferred. Alternatively, consider a combination of onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and dried parsley.
• Sea Salt: Aim for a teaspoon per pound of meat, using either fine or kosher salt.
• Chicken: Bone-in chicken thighs are recommended, although other cuts such as boneless chicken can also be used. Ensure that you adjust the cooking time as necessary and utilize an instant-read thermometer to check that the meat has reached 165° F.
• Oil: Both avocado and olive oil are excellent choices.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is the best option; I also enjoy garnishing with lemon slices.

Step by Step

For detailed measurements and the full recipe, please refer to the recipe card located at the end of this post.

Serving Suggestions

Great low-carb side dishes to complement this lemon pepper chicken thigh recipe include keto Brussels sprouts, keto Greek salad, cabbage noodles, and air-fried green beans.

FAQs

How long can I marinate lemon pepper chicken?

Due to the citrus in the marinade, it is best marinated for just 30 minutes at room temperature or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator. This precaution prevents the lemon from breaking down the chicken’s proteins, ensuring the meat remains firm.

Can I use boneless skinless chicken for this recipe?

Certainly! Boneless skinless chicken can be substituted for this recipe. Just monitor the cooking time, as it will be shorter than for bone-in cuts. Make sure to use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached a safe internal temperature of 165°F.

Is it possible to prepare this recipe in advance?

If you aim to make it ahead of time for more than 2 hours, refrain from adding the lemon juice until just before cooking.

Tools

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• Oven-safe skillet or baking dish
• Instant-read thermometer

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