These Keto Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs are the perfect combination of juicy, flavorful chicken with a zesty lemon pepper seasoning. With minimal ingredients and an easy cooking method, they’re a great choice for a quick and satisfying low-carb meal. Whether baked, pan-seared, or grilled, the chicken thighs come out tender with a crispy skin, packed with citrusy, peppery goodness.

Ingredients:

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 1 lemon)
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice (from 1 lemon)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Prepare the Chicken Thighs: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps to achieve crispy skin. Rub the chicken thighs with olive oil, making sure to coat both sides evenly.
  3. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix the lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Rub this mixture all over the chicken thighs, making sure to get under the skin as well for maximum flavor.
  4. Cook the Chicken Thighs:
    • Oven Method: Place the chicken thighs skin-side up on a baking sheet or in an oven-safe dish. Roast in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy.
    • Pan-Seared Method: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a little olive oil and sear the chicken thighs skin-side down for 5-7 minutes, until the skin is golden and crispy. Flip the chicken over and cook for another 7-10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
    • Grilled Method: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken thighs for about 7-8 minutes per side, until fully cooked and crispy.
  5. Serve: Once cooked, let the chicken thighs rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Cooking Time:

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes (depending on cooking method)
  • Total Time: 40-45 minutes

Servings:

  • Servings: 4

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Fat: 24g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Total Carbohydrates: 1g
    • Fiber: 0g
    • Net Carbohydrates: 1g
  • Sugar: 1g

These Keto Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs are juicy and full of flavor, with a perfect balance of zesty lemon and cracked black pepper. They make a fantastic keto-friendly dinner option that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare. Pair them with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete low-carb meal!