Description
Crispy and juicy lemon pepper chicken thighs made in the air fryer. A bold, zesty dish with a golden crust and aromatic lemon-pepper seasoning, perfect for quick weeknight meals or family dinners.
Ingredients
4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1 ½ lbs total)
2 ½ large lemons (for 2 lemons’ fresh juice, and ½ for squeezing during cooking)
1 ½ tablespoons freshly cracked black pepper
1 teaspoon fine salt
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels
In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, cayenne pepper, and Italian seasoning
Brush or rub the seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken thighs
Lightly coat both sides with olive oil
Arrange the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overlapping
Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and crisp
During the last 2 minutes of cooking, use the remaining half lemon to squeeze fresh juice over the chicken for extra brightness
Notes
Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the spiciness
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C)
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 100mg