Why Make This Recipe

Honey Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs is a delightful dish that’s both simple and full of flavor. The sweet and tangy taste of honey and lemon brings a wonderful brightness to the chicken, making it a great choice for family dinners or gatherings. Additionally, the combination of spices adds a nice kick that keeps everyone coming back for more.

How to Make Honey Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

8 chicken thighs
Zest of 2 lemons
2 lemons (juice of 1 lemon, cut the other lemon into slices)
3 tbsp honey
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper (freshly ground)
1 tsp red chili flakes
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp mustard powder

Directions:

Prepare the Chicken:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if you are using the oven-baked method.
In a bowl, mix the honey, olive oil, juice of 1 lemon, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, red chili flakes, paprika, garlic powder, and mustard powder. This will be your marinade.
Coat the chicken thighs with the marinade, ensuring they are well-covered. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours for more flavor.

Oven-Baked Method:

Place the marinated chicken thighs in a baking dish.
Arrange the lemon slices on top of the chicken.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and juices run clear.

Air Fryer Method:

Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
Place the marinated chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time, until the chicken is cooked through and crispy on the outside.

How to Serve Honey Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs

Serve the Honey Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. You can also pair it with rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious juices. Don’t forget to drizzle extra honey or lemon juice on top for added flavor!

How to Store Honey Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs

Once cooked, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the chicken thighs. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, and they will last up to 3 months.

Tips to Make Honey Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs

For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight.
You can adjust the amount of red chili flakes according to your spice preference.
Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for juicier meat.

Variation

For a different twist, try adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to the marinade for an aromatic touch. You could also replace honey with maple syrup for a different sweetness.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may cook faster than thighs. Check for doneness sooner.
How can I make it gluten-free?
All of the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy it without worry!
Can I grill the chicken instead?
Absolutely! You can grill the marinated chicken thighs over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked.

Enjoy making your Honey Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs! It’s a dish that’s sure to impress.

Honey Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs