This Easy Garlic Lemon Chicken Thighs recipe is a winner! Juicy chicken thighs are marinated in zesty lemon and fragrant garlic for a bright, delicious flavor that’s hard to resist.
Cooking this dish is a breeze—just mix, marinate, and bake! I love pairing it with some rice or veggies for a tasty meal. Plus, the leftovers are perfect for lunch the next day! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs are ideal for juicy flavor, but boneless and skinless thighs work too. They cook faster, so adjust the baking time if you choose them.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for this recipe, but if you’re in a pinch, you can use garlic powder. Just use about 1/8 teaspoon for each clove.
Lemon: Fresh lemons are best for both zest and juice. If you don’t have them, bottled lemon juice can work, just remember to adjust for flavor intensity.
Olive Oil: This provides a rich flavor, but you could substitute it with avocado oil or melted butter for a different taste.
Dried Oregano: Oregano adds a great herbal note. You can use Italian seasoning if you don’t have oregano, as it blends well with the other spices.
How Do I Get Crispy Skin on My Chicken Thighs?
Getting that crispy skin is all about drying the chicken and cooking it at the right temperature. Here’s how:
- Patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels is crucial. This removes moisture that would steam the skin.
- Cook the chicken on a high heat (400°F) to render the fat under the skin, helping it become crispy.
- Make sure the skin is facing up while baking so that it crisps up nicely.
By following these tips, your chicken will come out perfectly crispy and flavorful every time! Enjoy your meal! 😊
Easy Garlic Lemon Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or 1 tablespoon fresh, chopped)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time, and then you’ll need to bake the chicken for 35-40 minutes. In total, you should expect to spend about 50 minutes getting this delicious dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s hot when you put the chicken in, helping to get that nice crispy skin.
2. Prepare the Marinade:
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want a bit of spice. This mixture is packed with flavor!
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Take the chicken thighs and pat them dry with paper towels. This step helps the skin become crispy when baking. Then, generously rub the garlic lemon marinade over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well. The more flavor, the better!
4. Arrange in the Pan:
Place the marinated chicken thighs skin side up on a baking sheet or in a baking dish. Make sure they have a little space between them for even cooking.
5. Bake the Chicken:
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the skin is crispy and golden brown. You can check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer—it should reach 165°F (74°C).
6. Let it Rest:
Once done, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making your chicken juicy and delicious!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley over the chicken. It’s a lovely touch and adds a pop of color!
Enjoy your flavorful, juicy garlic lemon chicken thighs with your favorite sides like rice, veggies, or a fresh salad! It’s simple, tasty, and sure to impress!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Lemon Chicken Thighs
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used! They will cook faster, usually in about 25-30 minutes, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil, feel free to use avocado oil or melted butter. Both will add a delicious flavor to the chicken!
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Thighs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy skin.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken overnight in the fridge will enhance the flavor even more. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
