The Proper Time to Kindle Chanukah Lights by Rabbi Chaim Jachter

 https://www.koltorah.org/halachah/the-proper-time-to-kindle-chanukah-lights-by-rabbi-chaim-jachter

One should try to light Nerot Chanukah at the optimal time.  However, defining the precise time has been an elusive task.  It appears that common practice is simply to light when the men return from Maariv.  Shalom Bayit and male communal Torah study might permit one to light after the optimal time.    

Igros Moshe (OH. IV #101.6 p189) The best time to light a Hanukkah candle is about ten minutes after the beginning of sunset and it should have enough oil to burn for an hour or so in order that it will burn about half an hour after the stars come out.,  

Igros Moshe (OH IV 62 page 95)  Also we light the chunukah lights everyday at a later time so that there is parsumei nissa for fanily members