Herb-Infused Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs
Experience the tantalizing flavors of Herb-Infused Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs, a dish that not only pleases the palate but also fills your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma while it bakes! Using fresh rosemary instead of dried elevates the dish, imparting a vibrant, aromatic quality that blends perfectly with the zesty lemon and the warmth of black pepper. Ideal for a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this delicious chicken can be paired with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. The marinating process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a succulent and juicy chicken that falls off the bone. Get ready to savor every bite!
N/A
Servings
400
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
chicken thighs
6 (bone-in, skin-on)
lemon pepper seasoning
2 heaping tablespoons (or substitute with regular pepper and lemon juice)
water
enough to cover (for marinade)
fresh rosemary
3 (sprigs)
Instructions
1
Start by placing the chicken thighs in a deep tupperware dish, ideally one that can be sealed tightly.
2
Sprinkle the lemon pepper seasoning generously over the chicken, ensuring even coverage.
3
Add the fresh rosemary sprigs to the container, tucking them among the chicken pieces.
4
Pour enough water into the dish to completely submerge the chicken. Seal the container and gently shake to combine all the ingredients.
5
Allow the chicken to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
6
When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 370°F (190°C).
7
Spray a baking pan with non-stick cooking spray (like Pam) to prevent sticking.
8
Arrange the marinated chicken thighs in the baking pan and discard the marinade.
9
Cut each rosemary sprig in half and place one piece under each chicken thigh for added flavor.
10
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is cooked through.
11
Once cooked, remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Herb-Infused Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs!
Nutrition Information
25g
Fat
2g
Carbs
30g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Herb-Infused Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs?
This is a zesty and aromatic chicken dish featuring bone-in, skin-on thighs marinated in lemon pepper and fresh rosemary for a succulent, juicy result.
What ingredients are required for this recipe?
The recipe requires 6 chicken thighs, 2 heaping tablespoons of lemon pepper seasoning, water, and 3 sprigs of fresh rosemary.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
You should marinate the chicken for at least 2-3 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor penetration.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
The chicken should be baked in an oven preheated to 370°F (190°C).
How long does it take to bake the chicken thighs?
Baking typically takes 30-40 minutes depending on the size of the thighs.
What is the safe internal temperature for the chicken?
The chicken is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Can I substitute fresh rosemary with dried rosemary?
While you can use dried, the recipe recommends fresh rosemary to impart a more vibrant, aromatic quality to the dish.
What can I use if I don't have lemon pepper seasoning?
You can substitute lemon pepper seasoning with a mix of regular black pepper and fresh lemon juice.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 400 calories.
What is the protein content of this dish?
There are 30 grams of protein per serving.
Is this recipe low-carb?
Yes, it is very low in carbohydrates, containing only 2 grams per serving.
How much fat is in this recipe?
Each serving contains approximately 25 grams of fat.
What kind of chicken should I use?
The recipe specifies using 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs.
How do I prepare the rosemary for baking?
After marinating, cut each rosemary sprig in half and place one piece under each chicken thigh in the baking pan.
Should I keep the marinade for baking?
No, you should discard the marinade after arranging the chicken thighs in the baking pan.
How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the pan?
Spray the baking pan with a non-stick cooking spray, such as Pam, before adding the chicken.
What is the purpose of adding water to the marinade?
The water is used to completely submerge the chicken, allowing the seasoning and rosemary to distribute evenly.
What are some recommended side dishes?
This chicken pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, because it can marinate overnight and stores well, it is excellent for preparation in advance.
What type of container should I use for marinating?
A deep tupperware dish that can be sealed tightly is ideal for the marinating process.
Should I rest the chicken after cooking?
Yes, letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven helps keep it juicy.
How do I ensure the seasoning is even?
After sealing the container with the water and seasoning, gently shake it to combine all ingredients.
Is this recipe considered easy to make?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe suitable for weeknight dinners.
Does this recipe contain any sugar?
Based on the nutritional data provided, the sugar content is negligible or null.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
The recipe uses 6 chicken thighs, which typically serves 3 to 6 people depending on portion size.
Does this dish have a strong aroma?
Yes, the combination of fresh rosemary and lemon creates a mouthwatering aroma while baking.
Is the chicken bone-in or boneless?
The recipe calls for bone-in chicken thighs, which helps create succulent, fall-off-the-bone meat.
Can I use this recipe for chicken breasts?
While intended for thighs, you can use breasts, but you must monitor the internal temperature carefully to avoid drying them out.
What is the main flavor profile?
The flavor profile is zesty, peppery, and herbaceous.
Is there any fiber in this dish?
The fiber content is listed as null, as it is primarily a protein-based dish.