This Easy Garlic Lemon Chicken Thighs recipe is a winner! Juicy chicken thighs are cooked with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic, making every bite bursting with flavor.
You won’t believe how simple it is! Just mix the garlic and lemon, coat the thighs, and let the oven do its thing. Dinner’s ready in no time and tastes amazing!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs are perfect for this recipe, as they stay juicy while cooking. If you prefer, skinless thighs are a healthier option, but they may need more careful cooking to avoid drying out.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a robust flavor. If you’re in a pinch, jarred minced garlic can work too, but it’s less potent. I really love using fresh cloves because they add a nice kick!
Lemon: Fresh lemons are best for the zest and juice. If you don’t have any, bottled lemon juice is an alternative, though fresh always tastes brighter. I like to use organic lemons for their great flavor and zest.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances the taste of the dish. For a different flavor, you can substitute it with avocado oil or melted butter, both of which work well in this recipe.
How Do You Get Perfectly Crispy Chicken Skin?
Getting that golden, crispy skin is key to this dish! Here are some tips:
- Make sure the chicken is dry before seasoning. Patting it with paper towels helps.
- Heat the skillet well before adding the chicken. A hot pan ensures immediate searing.
- Don’t rush the searing! Let it cook for a good 4-5 minutes on medium-high until it’s beautifully golden.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause the chicken to steam instead of sear. If needed, do it in batches.
Easy Garlic Lemon Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Easy Garlic Lemon Chicken Thighs recipe takes approximately 10 minutes for prep and about 25-30 minutes to cook in the oven. So, in just about 40 minutes, you can have a flavorful and satisfying meal on the table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your chicken will cook evenly while developing a nice golden color.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Use paper towels to pat the chicken thighs dry. This helps to make the skin crispy. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and paprika for added flavor.
3. Mix the Garlic-Lemon Marinade:
In a small bowl, combine minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, and dried oregano. Mix well to create a fragrant marinade that will infuse the chicken with flavor!
4. Sear the Chicken:
In an oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs skin-side down. Sear for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy.
5. Add the Marinade:
Carefully flip the chicken thighs over. Pour the garlic-lemon mixture over them, ensuring a nice coating. This will create a delicious sauce while baking!
6. Add Liquid:
Pour chicken broth (or water) into the skillet. This helps keep the chicken moist and creates a tasty sauce.
7. Bake in the Oven:
Move the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Finishing Touches:
Once done, take the skillet out of the oven. Spoon the juices from the pan over the chicken for extra flavor, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for brightness.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Easy Garlic Lemon Chicken Thighs hot, alongside your favorite sides like rice, vegetables, or a fresh salad. Enjoy this delightful meal!
Bon appétit!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Lemon Chicken Thighs
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, you can! Boneless thighs will cook faster, so adjust the cooking time to about 15-20 minutes, checking for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil, you can use avocado oil, canola oil, or melted butter as a substitute. Each will add a slightly different flavor, but all work well!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if necessary to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Recipe on the Grill?
Absolutely! You can grill the chicken thighs over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes per side, brushing with the marinade to infuse flavor. Be sure to check for the same internal temperature to ensure they’re cooked through!
