Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the zesty and succulent flavors of Lemon Pepper Air Fryer Chicken Thighs!

This quick and easy recipe combines the crispy perfection of air frying with the bright, citrusy kick of lemon pepper seasoning for a delightful meal that’s sure to become a weeknight favorite. Join us on a culinary adventure as we unlock the secrets to juicy, flavorful chicken with a satisfying crunch. 🍋🍗✨

Lemon Pepper Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
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The Best Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Thigh Recipe

: indulge in the absolute best with our Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs recipe. These succulent chicken thighs are generously seasoned with zesty lemon and aromatic pepper, then air-fried to perfection. The result?

A mouthwatering blend of crispy skin and tender, flavorful meat bursting with citrusy goodness. It’s an incredibly delicious, quick, and hassle-free dish, making it a fantastic choice for weeknight dinners or whenever you’re craving a sensational meal. With this recipe, you’ll elevate your air fryer game to a new culinary delight. 🍋🍗🌟

Lemon Pepper Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

You’re bound to fall in love with our Lemon Pepper Air Fryer Chicken Thighs recipe for several fantastic reasons:

  • Irresistible Flavor: These chicken thighs are perfectly seasoned with the classic combination of zesty lemon and bold pepper, delivering a harmonious blend of savory and citrusy notes. The zesty lemon flavor will bring out the delicious citrus flavor, perfect as a main dish to your dinner table.
  • Crispy Perfection: Thanks to the magic of air frying, you’ll achieve perfectly crispy chicken skin that’s both golden and satisfyingly crunchy.
  • Tender and Juicy: Underneath that crispy exterior, you’ll find tender, succulent, juicy, flavorful chicken meat.
  • Effortless Preparation: This recipe is incredibly easy and quick to make, ideal for busy weeknights when you want a delicious meal without the fuss.
  • Versatile Dish: Lemon Pepper Air Fryer Chicken Thighs are versatile enough to be the star of your meal or a fantastic addition to salads, sandwiches, or wraps.
  • Healthier Option: Air frying reduces the need for excessive oil, making this dish a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods.
  • Kid-Friendly: The delightful flavors and crispy texture make these chicken thighs a hit for kids and adults, making family dinners a breeze.
  • Customizable: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste or add extra herbs and spices for a personalized touch.

This recipe offers a delightful culinary experience bursting with flavor and texture. It’s a must-try for anyone who enjoys a mouthwatering, hassle-free chicken dinner. 🍋🍗🍽️

​Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs

Prepare to elevate your taste buds with the irresistible Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs flavors! These succulent, crispy delights come to life with just a few simple yet essential ingredients. Let’s dive into the lineup that promises a mouthwatering culinary adventure.

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the zesty and succulent flavors of Lemon Pepper Air Fryer Chicken Thighs!

​Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

  • Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are the star of this dish, offering juicy and flavorful meat with crispy skin when air-fried.
  • Lemon Pepper Seasoning: This essential spice blend combines zesty lemon zest and aromatic black pepper, infusing the chicken with a tangy, citrusy kick and a delightful peppery aroma.
  • Olive Oil: A light drizzle of olive oil helps the lemon pepper seasoning adhere to the chicken and promotes a crispy skin while air frying.
  • Kosher Salt: A pinch of salt enhances the overall flavor, balancing the tanginess of the lemon and the pepper’s heat.
  • Lemon Juice (Optional): Freshly squeezed lemon juice can be added for an extra burst of citrusy freshness and a touch of acidity to brighten up the dish.
  • Lemon: Serve with fresh lemon slices or lemon wedges.

These simple ingredients create a mouthwatering, easy-to-make dish perfect for any occasion. Prepare to savor the delightful combination of lemony zest, savory pepper, and juicy chicken thighs. 🍋🍗🌿

How To Make Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs

Prepare to embark on a culinary journey filled with zesty, succulent flavors as we guide you through making Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs. This recipe combines the magic of air frying with the bright and peppery goodness of lemon pepper seasoning, delivering a dish that’s not only delicious but also effortlessly crispy and tender. 🍋🍗✨

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Lemon and Garlic Chicken Thighs

Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375 degrees F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.  This ensures a hot cooking environment for crispy results.

Add spcies and lemon to the chicken thighs

Season the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon pepper seasoning, and salt. Mix well to create a paste. Rub this flavorful paste generously over the chicken thighs, ensuring they’re evenly coated.

Lemon-Slices-in-Bowl-with-Chicken-Thighs

Arrange in the Air Fryer: Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, skin side up, ensuring they’re not crowded. This allows for even cooking and crispy skin.

Air Fry: Cook the chicken thighs at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes. Midway through the cooking time, pause and carefully flip the chicken thighs for even browning. Continue cooking until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy. Check the internal temperature of the thickest part of the thigh with a meat thermometer. 

Lemon Pepper Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Serve: Remove the chicken thighs from the air fryer once cooked to perfection. Garnish with lemon wedges for an extra zesty touch, if desired.

Enjoy: Serve your Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs hot, and relish the harmonious blend of crispy skin and tender, citrus-infused meat. It’s a delightful feast for your senses!

This straightforward recipe delivers delectable results for a quick weeknight dinner or when you crave a flavorful and hassle-free meal. 🍋🍗🌟

lemon chicken thigh

Recipe Variations

Elevate your Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs with these delightful recipe variations:

  • Garlic Herb Lemon Pepper Chicken: Add minced fresh garlic, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and favorite fresh herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, to the seasoning mix for an aromatic twist.
  • Spicy Lemon Pepper Chicken: If you enjoy some heat, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper into the seasoning for a spicy kick.
  • Honey Lemon Pepper Glaze: Drizzle a honey and lemon juice glaze over the chicken thighs before serving to balance the tanginess with sweetness.
  • Lemon Pepper Chicken Tacos: Shred the cooked chicken and use it as a filling for tacos. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a dollop of sour cream for a tasty Tex-Mex treat.
  • Lemon Pepper Chicken Salad: Slice the cooked chicken and serve it on a bed of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and your favorite dressing for a refreshing salad.
  • Lemon Pepper Chicken Wraps: Wrap the chicken with some crisp lettuce and sliced avocado in a tortilla for a delicious lunchtime wrap.
  • Creamy Lemon Pepper Sauce: Create a creamy lemon pepper sauce by combining lemon juice, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese. Drizzle it over the chicken thighs for a luscious finish.
  • Lemon Pepper Chicken and Rice: Serve the lemon pepper chicken over a bed of cooked jasmine or basmati rice for a complete meal.

These variations add exciting twists to your Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs, allowing you to customize your meal to suit your taste and the occasion. Enjoy experimenting with these delicious ideas! 🍋🍗🌶️

lemon chicken thigh

Pro Tips

Achieve chicken thigh perfection with these pro tips for making Lemon Pepper Air Fryer Chicken Thighs:

  • Pat Dry the Chicken: Paint the chicken thighs dry with paper towels before seasoning. This helps the skin become extra crispy during air frying.
  • Season Under the Skin: For more intense flavor, gently lift the skin of the chicken thighs and rub the lemon pepper seasoning directly onto the meat. Then, replace the skin.
  • Preheat the Air Fryer: Ensure to preheat your air fryer for a few minutes before adding the chicken. This helps the chicken start cooking immediately, resulting in a crispy skin.
  • Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is cooked to perfection without overcooking, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This guarantees juicy, safe-to-eat chicken.
  • Avoid Overcrowding: Arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring space between them. Crowding can lead to uneven cooking and less crispy skin.
  • Flip Midway: Flip the chicken thighs halfway through the cooking time. This helps both sides achieve that desired crispy texture.
  • Lemon Juice Garnish: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the cooked chicken just before serving. The extra burst of citrusy freshness enhances the overall flavor.
  • Rest Before Serving: Allow the cooked chicken thighs to rest for a few minutes after removing them from the air fryer. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring moist and flavorful meat.
  • Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add seasonings or herbs to customize the flavor. Smoked paprika, garlic powder, or dried herbs like thyme or rosemary are excellent choices.

Following these pro tips, you’ll master the art of making Lemon Pepper Air Fryer Chicken Thighs with a delightful combination of crispy skin and juicy, citrus-infused meat. Enjoy every bite of this flavorful dish! 🍋🍗👩‍🍳

Lemon Pepper Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Faq’s

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this recipe? Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or bone-in chicken thighs if you prefer a leaner option. However, remember that the skin contributes to the crispy texture and flavor of the dish.

What’s the difference between lemon pepper seasoning and lemon zest with black pepper? Lemon pepper seasoning typically includes lemon zest, black pepper, and other spices. Using lemon zest and freshly ground black pepper can provide a more vibrant and fresh flavor.

How long does it take to preheat the air fryer? Preheating usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Check your air fryer’s instructions, as preheating times may vary slightly among different models.

Can I marinate the chicken thighs before cooking them in the air fryer? While marinating can add flavor, patting the chicken dry before air frying is essential to achieve crispy skin. You can marinate the chicken, pat it dry and season it before cooking.

Is it necessary to flip the chicken thighs during cooking? Flipping the chicken thighs halfway through the cooking time helps ensure even browning and crispiness on both sides. It’s a recommended step for the best results.

Can I use frozen chicken thighs in the air fryer? It’s best to use thawed chicken thighs for this recipe. Cooking frozen chicken thighs in the air fryer may result in uneven cooking and less crispy skin.

What can I serve with Lemon Pepper Air Fryer Chicken Thighs? These chicken thighs pair well with various side dishes, including rice, roasted vegetables, green beans, side salad, or a simple coleslaw. Choose your favorite sides to create a well-rounded meal.

Can I make this recipe with other cuts of chicken? Absolutely! You can use the same seasoning and cooking method for chicken drumsticks, wings, or even bone-in chicken breasts. Adjust the cooking time as needed based on the cut and size of the chicken.

How to store leftover chicken: Let the chicken cool to room temperature, and then place it into an airtight container or freezer bag. The cooked chicken will last in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.

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Lemon Pepper Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Lemon Pepper Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

5 from 2 votes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings

Description

Lemon Pepper Air Fryer Chicken Thighs are so good! You can not go wrong with this recipe. Packed with the lemon flavor and a dash of pepper, this will soon become one of your family's favorite Air Fryer Meals.

Ingredients 

  • 4 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs,
  • 1.5 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 4 wedges wedges, optional, for garnish

Instructions

  • Preheat the Air Fryer: Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This ensures a hot cooking environment for crispy results.
  • Season the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon pepper seasoning, and salt. Mix well to create a paste. Rub this flavorful paste generously over the chicken thighs, ensuring they’re evenly coated.
  • Arrange in the Air Fryer: Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, skin side up, making sure they’re not crowded. This allows for even cooking and crispy skin.
  • Air Fry: Cook the chicken thighs at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes. Midway through the cooking time, pause and carefully flip the chicken thighs for even browning. Continue cooking until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy.
  • Serve: Once cooked to perfection, remove the chicken thighs from the air fryer. Garnish with lemon wedges for an extra zesty touch, if desired.
  • Enjoy: Serve your Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs hot, and relish the harmonious blend of crispy skin and tender, citrus-infused meat. It’s a delightful feast for your senses!

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Cooking Spray
  • Parchment Paper, optional

Nutrition

Serving: 1ServingCalories: 284kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 19gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 111mgSodium: 378mgPotassium: 263mgFiber: 1gSugar: 0.03gVitamin A: 101IUVitamin C: 0.3mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg

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