If you’re searching for a quick, flavour-packed keto dinner, this Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken is your new go-to. Bursting with zesty lemon and aromatic cracked black pepper, this dish delivers maximum taste with minimal effort. The air fryer ensures each chicken thigh is perfectly juicy inside with a golden, crisp skin—no need for excess oil or complicated prep.
This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep, as it comes together in under 30 minutes and uses just a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients. The combination of tangy lemon zest, fresh juice, and bold pepper creates a bright, savoury profile that pairs beautifully with a variety of keto sides.
Simply marinate the chicken briefly, then let the air fryer do the work. You’ll enjoy succulent, protein-rich chicken with a punchy citrus twist—perfect for keeping your keto meals exciting and satisfying.
At a glance
- Time: 28 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
- Servings: 4
- Cost: Affordable
Macros (per serving)
- Protein: 28 g
- Fat: 18 g
- Carbs: 2 g
- Energy: 280 kcal
Ingredients
- 4 pieces Chicken thighs, bone-in skin-on (About 800g total)
- 1 large Lemon, zest and juice (Zest finely, juice freshly squeezed)
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 2 tsp Cracked black pepper (Freshly cracked for best flavour)
- 1 tsp Sea salt
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tsp Dried parsley (Optional, for garnish)
Equipment Needed
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs
- Microplane or fine grater
- Measuring spoons
Steps
- Pat chicken thighs dry with kitchen paper. Place in a large mixing bowl.
- Add lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, cracked black pepper, sea salt, and garlic powder to the bowl. Toss well to coat all sides.
- Let the chicken marinate for 10 minutes at room temperature to absorb the flavours.
- Preheat the air fryer to 200°C for 3 minutes.
- Arrange chicken thighs skin-side up in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd.
- Air fry for 18–20 minutes, turning once halfway, until the skin is golden and the juices run clear. Internal temperature should reach 75°C.
- Rest the chicken for 2–3 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with dried parsley if desired.
Allergens & Swaps
Allergens:
Recipe contains: No known allergens
Potential swaps:
- Chicken thighs → Chicken drumsticks or breasts — Adjust cooking time; breasts may cook faster.
- Olive oil → Avocado oil — For a more neutral flavour.
- Dried parsley → Fresh coriander or omit — Use your favourite fresh herbs.
Serving Ideas
- Sautéed green beans: Adds crunch and colour, keeping the meal light and keto.
- Cauliflower mash: Creamy and comforting, perfect for soaking up the lemony juices.
- Crisp green salad: Refreshing and balances the richness of the chicken.
Additional Info
Chefs Tips
- For extra crispy skin, pat the chicken very dry before marinating.
- Use freshly cracked black pepper for the best aroma and flavour.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking to keep it juicy.
Variations
- Add a pinch of chilli flakes for a spicy kick.
- Swap dried parsley for fresh dill for a different herbal note.
- Try with turkey thighs for a leaner option.
Troubleshooting
- Chicken not browning? Ensure the skin is dry before air frying and avoid overcrowding the basket.
- Chicken too dry? Reduce cooking time slightly or use bone-in thighs for juicier results.
- Flavour too mild? Increase lemon zest or cracked pepper to taste.
Storage & Reheating
Store cooled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
- Fridge: up to 3 days
- Freezer: up to 2 months
- Reheat: Reheat in the air fryer at 180°C for 5–7 minutes until hot and crisp.
Ingredient Spotlight
Chicken thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs stay juicy and develop a deliciously crisp skin in the air fryer.
Lemon: Both zest and juice add bright, tangy flavour without extra carbs.
Cracked black pepper: Freshly cracked pepper gives a bold, aromatic kick that defines this dish.
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, boneless thighs work well. Reduce cooking time by 3–4 minutes and check for doneness.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked?
The chicken is done when the juices run clear and the internal temperature reaches 75°C.
Can I make this recipe ahead?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and air fry when ready.
What sides go well with lemon pepper chicken?
Try sautéed green beans, cauliflower mash, or a crisp green salad for a complete keto meal.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely. Cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken: Juicy, Zesty, and Keto-Friendly
Ingredients
- 4 pieces Chicken thighs, bone-in skin-on (About 800g total)
- 1 large Lemon, zest and juice (Zest finely, juice freshly squeezed)
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 2 tsp Cracked black pepper (Freshly cracked for best flavour)
- 1 tsp Sea salt
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tsp Dried parsley (Optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Pat chicken thighs dry with kitchen paper. Place in a large mixing bowl.
- Add lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, cracked black pepper, sea salt, and garlic powder to the bowl. Toss well to coat all sides.
- Let the chicken marinate for 10 minutes at room temperature to absorb the flavours.
- Preheat the air fryer to 200°C for 3 minutes.
- Arrange chicken thighs skin-side up in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd.
- Air fry for 18–20 minutes, turning once halfway, until the skin is golden and the juices run clear. Internal temperature should reach 75°C.
- Rest the chicken for 2–3 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with dried parsley if desired.
Allergens & Swaps
Allergens: none
- Chicken thighs → Chicken drumsticks or breasts — Adjust cooking time; breasts may cook faster.
- Olive oil → Avocado oil — For a more neutral flavour.
- Dried parsley → Fresh coriander or omit — Use your favourite fresh herbs.
Nutrition (per serving)
- Protein: 28 g
- Fat: 18 g
- Carbs: 2 g
- Energy: 280 kcal
