Description
These Honey Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs are a deliciously flavorful dish featuring juicy chicken marinated in a zesty lemon and honey mixture with a perfect blend of spices. Baked or air fried until golden and crispy, these chicken thighs are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 8 chicken thighs
- Zest of 2 lemons
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon red chili flakes
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- 1 lemon, cut into slices
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine lemon zest, lemon juice, honey, olive oil, black pepper, red chili flakes, paprika, garlic powder, mustard powder, and salt to create the marinade. Toss the chicken thighs in this mixture until each piece is evenly coated, allowing the flavors to infuse.
- Oven-Baked Method: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the coated chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Place lemon slices on and around the chicken. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is golden and crispy. During the last 2 minutes, broil on high to achieve a nice crispy skin and char. Remove from oven and let rest before serving.
- Air Fryer Method: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the coated chicken thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket and distribute lemon slices among them. Cook for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy and golden. Broil on high for the last 2 minutes for extra crispiness and char. Let rest before serving.
Notes
- For juicier chicken, marinate for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Adjust red chili flakes quantity to suit your preferred spice level.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly for safety and juiciness.
- Resting the chicken after cooking helps retain its juices and enhances flavor.
- Both oven and air fryer methods yield delicious results; choose based on your available equipment and desired cooking time.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
