Why Make This Recipe

Honey Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs are a delightful dish that combines sweet and tangy flavors. The combination of honey, lemon, and spices creates a delicious glaze that enhances the chicken. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Plus, the juicy chicken thighs are sure to please everyone at the table.

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) or your air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
In a bowl, mix the lemon zest, honey, olive oil, salt, black pepper, red chili flakes, paprika, garlic powder, and mustard powder to create a marinade.
Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl or zip-top bag and pour the marinade over the chicken. Ensure each thigh is well coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight in the fridge for best flavor.

Oven-Baked Method:

Arrange the marinated chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the chicken and place the lemon slices on top.
Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice golden color.

Air Fryer Method:

Place the marinated chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
Air fry for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are fully cooked and crispy on the outside.

How to Serve Honey Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs

Serve the Honey Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs warm with a side of rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. The extra lemon slices can be a lovely garnish, adding visual appeal and a bit of extra tang if desired.

How to Store Honey Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs

Once cooked, let the chicken cool down completely. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the chicken for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Tips to Make Honey Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs

For a more intense flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight before cooking.
Adjust the amount of chili flakes to suit your heat preference.
For additional sweetness, consider adding a splash of maple syrup to the marinade.

Variation

You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, to the marinade. Additionally, you can use chicken breasts or drumsticks instead of thighs for a different texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs will work just fine. They may cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on them while baking or air frying.

2. How can I ensure the chicken stays juicy?
Marinating the chicken for a longer time will help lock in moisture and flavor. Cooking them at the right temperature also helps keep them juicy.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken the night before and cook it the next day for a quick and easy meal.