I’ve always loved a meal that’s quick, flavorful, and comforting, and chicken thighs are one of those go-to ingredients that never disappoint. They’re juicy, tender, and the skin gets irresistibly crisp when cooked just right. Recently, I’ve been leaning on my air fryer for weeknight dinners, and this lemon pepper chicken thigh recipe has quickly become a household favorite. The best part? It’s done in less time than it takes to preheat the oven, with a flavor that’s zesty, savory, and absolutely satisfying.
Cooking with lemon and black pepper has always felt like magic to me—simple ingredients that deliver such a punch of brightness and spice. Pair that with chicken thighs, which are naturally rich and forgiving, and you’ve got the perfect combination for a foolproof dinner. Whether you’re making this for a busy weeknight, prepping ahead for lunches, or just want something crispy without the extra oil, these air fryer lemon pepper chicken thighs hit the spot every single time.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Chicken thighs: The star of the dish, chicken thighs stay juicy and flavorful even after high-heat cooking. They have a richer taste compared to chicken breasts, and the skin crisps up beautifully in the air fryer, giving you that golden, crunchy bite with every forkful.
Lemon zest and juice: Fresh lemon brings both brightness and tang. The zest carries the essential oils that make the flavor pop, while the juice adds a subtle acidity that cuts through the richness of the chicken thighs. Together, they balance the seasoning perfectly.
Black pepper: This ingredient adds the “kick” in lemon pepper. Freshly cracked black pepper delivers a sharper, more vibrant spice than pre-ground, which really makes the flavor stand out. It pairs perfectly with the citrus notes of lemon.
Olive oil: A small drizzle of olive oil helps the seasonings stick to the chicken and encourages the skin to crisp in the air fryer. It also adds a light fruitiness that complements the lemon.
Garlic powder: Garlic powder provides a warm, savory base flavor that enhances both the chicken and the lemon pepper seasoning. It’s subtle but makes the overall taste feel round and complete.
Salt: A little salt is essential to bring out all the flavors and ensure the chicken is perfectly seasoned. It enhances the citrus and spice without overpowering them.
Ingredients List
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
How to Make Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs
Step 1: Prep the chicken
Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. Removing extra moisture is the key to getting that skin extra crispy in the air fryer.
Step 2: Season generously
In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, black pepper, garlic powder, and salt. Rub this mixture all over the chicken thighs, making sure to coat them evenly.
Step 3: Preheat and arrange
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes. Place the chicken thighs in the basket, skin side down, making sure they aren’t overlapping for even cooking.
Step 4: Air fry until crispy
Cook for 12 minutes, then flip the chicken so the skin side faces up. Continue cooking for another 12–14 minutes, or until the skin is crisp and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Rest and serve
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping every bite moist and flavorful.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Always pat the chicken dry before seasoning—it makes the skin crispier.
- Freshly cracked black pepper gives a much bolder flavor than pre-ground.
- If you like a stronger lemon taste, add more zest rather than juice to avoid excess moisture.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through without drying it out.
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes! They’ll cook a bit faster—about 16–18 minutes total—so keep an eye on the timer.
Can I substitute chicken breasts for thighs?
You can, but breasts tend to dry out more easily. Adjust the cooking time to about 16–18 minutes and check for doneness.
Do I need to marinate the chicken?
It’s not required, but if you have extra time, marinating for 30 minutes will deepen the lemony flavor.
Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?
Absolutely—bake in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway through.
What sides go well with lemon pepper chicken thighs?
They pair beautifully with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or fluffy rice.