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Crispy Lemon Chicken

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Crispy Lemon Chicken is an easy, flavorful dinner recipe featuring juicy chicken thighs coated in a golden, crunchy panko-Parmesan crust and finished with a bright, zesty lemon drizzle. This oven-baked chicken dish is bold, satisfying, and perfect for a weeknight meal or casual gathering.

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line or grease a baking sheet.
  2. Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
  3. Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and a mix of panko and Parmesan.
  4. Dredge each thigh in flour, dip in egg, then coat in the panko-Parmesan mixture.
  5. Arrange on the baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
  6. Bake for 35–40 minutes, until golden and cooked through (165°F/74°C internal temp).
  7. While baking, combine lemon juice and zest.
  8. Drizzle lemon mixture over chicken while hot.
  9. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.

Notes

  • You can prepare the chicken ahead of time and refrigerate before baking.
  • For a lighter version, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts and reduce cooking time.
  • Substitute almond flour and gluten-free panko for a gluten-free version.
  • Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the panko for extra flavor.
  • Avoid microwaving leftovers to maintain the crisp coating—reheat in the oven.