Description
This Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken is a flavorful, juicy, and easy-to-make dish featuring a zesty seasoning blend. It’s oven-baked, making it a perfect hands-off meal that allows you to prep your favorite sides while it cooks.
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
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray or line it with foil.
- In a small bowl, mix together the lemon pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and Italian seasoning.
- Place the chicken in a large bowl. Add olive oil, lemon juice, and lemon zest, tossing to coat the chicken evenly.
- Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the chicken and toss again to coat thoroughly.
- Arrange the seasoned chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear.
- Remove from the oven, let rest for 5 minutes, then serve warm.
Notes
- Use bone-in, skin-on chicken for maximum flavor and moisture.
- Line the baking sheet with foil for easier cleanup.
- Serve with roasted vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
- Adjust lemon pepper seasoning to taste for a stronger citrus flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 364
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
