Name: Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/2 pounds chicken thighs or legs; 1 tablespoon lemon pepper; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest; 2 tablespoons lemon juice

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Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken is a flavorful and easy weeknight dinner that delivers crispy skin, juicy meat, and a zesty punch of lemon in every bite. Seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, this dish is oven-baked to perfection with minimal effort. While the chicken roasts, you have time to whip up simple side dishes for a well-rounded, comforting meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is all about bold flavor and simplicity. The lemon zest and juice brighten the dish, while the spice blend adds depth without overwhelming the chicken. It’s hands-off once it hits the oven, making it ideal for busy nights. Plus, it works beautifully with thighs, legs, or drumsticks and can be scaled up easily for meal prep or gatherings.

Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 1/2 pounds chicken thighs or legs
1 tablespoon lemon pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons lemon juice

Directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Lightly spray a baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray or line it with foil for easy cleanup.
In a small bowl, combine lemon pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and Italian seasoning. Mix well.
Place the chicken in a large bowl. Add the olive oil, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Toss to coat evenly.
Sprinkle the spice mixture over the chicken and toss again until each piece is fully coated.
Arrange the chicken on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the juices run clear.
Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 6 servings.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

Boneless Option: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts—just reduce bake time to 25–30 minutes.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.
Herb Swap: Use fresh rosemary or thyme instead of Italian seasoning for a more herbaceous profile.
Citrus Blend: Add a bit of orange or lime juice/zest along with lemon for a citrus medley.
Grilled Version: Marinate the chicken and grill it instead for a charred, smoky flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze cooled chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes or in the microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs or legs?

Yes, but reduce the cooking time to 25–30 minutes to avoid drying out the breasts.

How do I get crispy skin in the oven?

Bake the chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to allow air to circulate and crisp the skin.

What can I serve with lemon pepper chicken?

It pairs well with rice, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple side salad.

Can I marinate the chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken with the oil, lemon juice, zest, and spices for up to 12 hours in the fridge.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a second baking sheet to avoid overcrowding, which helps the chicken roast rather than steam.

What if I don’t have lemon pepper seasoning?

You can make your own by mixing lemon zest, black pepper, salt, and a bit of garlic powder.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a digital meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 165°F in the thickest part of the meat.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Thaw the chicken completely before seasoning and baking for best results and even cooking.

What’s the best way to zest a lemon?

Use a microplane or fine grater to remove only the yellow outer layer—avoid the bitter white pith underneath.

Conclusion

Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken is a quick and reliable go-to meal packed with flavor and requiring minimal hands-on time. With its juicy texture, crispy skin, and bright lemony notes, it’s a delicious way to elevate your dinner routine. Pair it with your favorite sides, double the batch for leftovers, and enjoy a meal that’s as simple as it is satisfying.