Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs are juicy and bursting with flavor! The tangy lemon and tasty garlic make every bite a treat. Plus, they’re easy to whip up for dinner!
I love how these chicken thighs can be cooked in one pan—less mess for me! Serve them with rice or veggies, and you’ve got a delicious meal that feels special. Yum! 🍋🐔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I recommend using bone-in and skin-on thighs for juiciness and flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, chicken breasts can be used, but the cooking time may change since they cook faster.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil gives a rich taste, but you could substitute it with canola or avocado oil if needed. Just be aware that swapping the oil may slightly alter the flavor.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is essential for its robust flavor. If you don’t have fresh, you can use garlic powder. Remember, 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder is roughly equivalent to a clove of garlic.
Lemon: Fresh lemons are best for the juice and zest, adding brightness to the dish. In a pinch, bottled lemon juice works, but it may lack some freshness.
Thyme: Fresh thyme is fantastic, but dried thyme works just fine, especially in a marinade. Use about one-third of the amount if you’re swapping dried for fresh since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken Skin Turns Crispy?
Getting that perfect crispy skin is all about the cooking technique. Here are some tips to help you achieve a deliciously crispy result:
- Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the skin crisp up better.
- Make sure your oven is fully preheated before placing the chicken in. This ensures immediate cooking and promotes crispiness.
- A tip I like: roast the chicken skin-side up and avoid covering it with foil. This helps the skin to brown deliciously.
- Check for doneness with a meat thermometer—165°F (75°C) is your safe zone. If you want extra crispiness, broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
How to Make Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for roasting)
- Fresh thyme for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep the ingredients, 30 minutes to marinate, and 35-40 minutes to cook. Altogether, you’ll need about 1 hour to make delicious lemon garlic chicken thighs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your chicken cooks evenly and gets that nice, crispy skin you’re looking for.
2. Make the Marinade:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined. This marinade is the magical flavor booster for your chicken!
3. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl and pour the marinade over them. Make sure each piece is coated well. For the best flavor, let it marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or up to overnight in the fridge. If you’re in a hurry, even 30 minutes makes a big difference!
4. Prepare for Roasting:
Take a cast-iron skillet or an oven-safe baking dish and arrange the marinated chicken thighs skin-side up inside. Scatter the lemon wedges around the chicken, which will roast beautifully and add even more flavor.
5. Roast the Chicken:
Put the skillet or baking dish in your preheated oven and roast for 35-40 minutes. The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy and golden brown. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
6. Let It Rest and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. If you like, garnish with fresh thyme to impress your family or friends. Serve your lemon garlic chicken thighs with your favorite side dishes, and enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs, but they will cook faster! Reduce the roasting time to about 25-30 minutes, checking for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they’re fully cooked.
Can I Marinate the Chicken for Longer?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken thighs for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. Just remember that marinating for too long might make the chicken a bit too salty, so if you go beyond 12 hours, consider reducing the salt in the marinade.
How Should I Store Leftover Chicken Thighs?
Store any leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. This helps keep the skin crispy!
What Sides Pair Well with Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs?
This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or creamy mashed potatoes. You could also serve it over quinoa or rice to soak up all that delicious marinade!
