Air Fryer Crispy Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs are the kind of meal I turn to when I need something dependable, flavorful, and family-approved. The outside turns beautifully crispy, while the inside stays juicy and tender. And that lemon pepper seasoning? It adds just the right mix of citrusy brightness and savory warmth.
As a mom and wife, I love recipes that feel like a “real dinner” but don’t leave me stuck in the kitchen all evening. These chicken thighs cook quickly in the air fryer, need minimal prep, and pair well with almost anything I have on hand — rice, potatoes, salad, or roasted veggies.
It’s simple comfort food with a fresh twist, and it always gets eaten without complaints.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chicken is crispy, juicy, and full of flavor.
You’ll love it because:
- The air fryer makes the skin extra crispy
- Lemon pepper adds bold, bright flavor
- Chicken thighs stay moist and tender
- It uses simple pantry spices
- It’s perfect for busy weeknights
It’s one of those recipes you’ll make once and then keep in regular rotation.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1½ teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt to taste (depending on your lemon pepper blend)
Optional for Extra Lemon Flavor
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Fresh lemon wedges for serving
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
How to Make Air Fryer Crispy Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs
1. Prep the Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This step is important for getting crispy skin.
Place the chicken in a bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Rub to coat evenly.
2. Season Generously
Sprinkle lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a little salt over the chicken. If you like a stronger citrus flavor, add some fresh lemon zest too.
Rub the seasoning all over, including under the skin if possible.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3–5 minutes.
4. Air Fry the Chicken
Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket skin-side down first. Make sure they’re in a single layer with space between them.
Cook for 10 minutes, then flip so they’re skin-side up. Cook another 10–15 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
If you want extra crispy skin, add 2–3 more minutes at the end.
5. Rest Before Serving
Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep the juices inside the meat.
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top before serving for an extra pop of flavor.
Tips for Extra Crispy Skin
- Pat the chicken very dry before seasoning
- Don’t overcrowd the basket
- Start skin-side down, finish skin-side up
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking
The air fryer’s circulating heat is perfect for crisping chicken skin without frying.
For more chicken cooking tips, don’t miss my full air fryer chicken recipe guide.
Easy Flavor Variations
You can easily switch up the seasoning:
- Add a pinch of cayenne for heat
- Mix in dried thyme or rosemary
- Use smoked paprika for a deeper flavor
- Brush lightly with melted butter in the last few minutes for richness
But honestly, the classic lemon pepper combo is hard to beat.
What to Serve With Lemon Pepper Chicken
This chicken goes with almost everything, which makes dinner planning easy.
Family favorites include:
- Garlic butter rice or lemon rice
- Roasted potatoes or mashed potatoes
- Steamed green beans or broccoli
- A crisp garden salad
- Air fryer corn on the cob
It’s hearty enough to stand on its own, but even better with simple sides.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 4–6 minutes to help the skin crisp back up. It’s also great sliced cold over salads or tucked into wraps.
Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Crispy Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs are one of those no-fail dinners that deliver big flavor with very little effort. Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and bright with lemony goodness, they’re the kind of meal that makes everyone at the table happy.
For busy nights when you still want something homemade and satisfying, this recipe is always a win.
