Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs

These crispy Paleo and Whole30 air fryer lemon pepper chicken thighs boast a juicy interior and a delightful outer crunch. Perfect for a quick dinner or efficient meal prep, this keto and gluten-free recipe can be ready in under 30 minutes.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• 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 citrus.
• Crispy Perfection: 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.
• 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.

​Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs

Here are the simple ingredients you will need for making lemon pepper chicken thighs in air fryer.

​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.

How To Make Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs

Here are the step-by-step directions to make air fried lemon pepper 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.

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, 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. 

Pro Tips

• 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.

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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