This Easy Garlic Lemon Chicken Thighs recipe is a winner! Juicy chicken thighs are cooked with zesty lemon and fragrant garlic, making every bite flavorful and refreshing.
You’ll love how quick and simple this dish is. Just blend the ingredients, marinate for a bit, and let your oven do the magic. Perfect for busy weeknights! 🍋🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs are perfect for this recipe as they stay juicy and flavorful. You can use boneless thighs or chicken breasts if preferred, but adjust the cooking time for breasts to avoid drying them out.
Garlic: Fresh garlic elevates the dish, but minced garlic in a jar works in a pinch. You might also use garlic powder, but fresh gives it a stronger flavor, which I recommend.
Lemon: Fresh lemons add brightness. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can work, but fresh is always best for zest! You can add lime instead for a twist.
Olive Oil: I love using extra virgin olive oil for its rich taste, but any cooking oil like vegetable or canola oil can be used if you run out.
Oregano: Dried oregano gives a nice herbaceous note. You can swap it with thyme or Italian seasoning, depending on what you have in your pantry!
What’s the Best Way to Marinate Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating chicken is key to boosting flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Ensure the marinade coats the chicken evenly. Use a large bowl or resealable bag.
- Letting it marinate for at least 20 minutes allows flavor to penetrate. For best results, marinate up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
- Don’t skip drying the chicken before marinating. This helps the skin crisp up that wonderful golden brown color when cooked.
Give it a go, and enjoy the amazing flavors of your lemon garlic chicken!
Easy Garlic Lemon Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 40 minutes to bake. With marinating time included, you can enjoy this delicious dish in about 1 hour. Perfect for a quick dinner option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to preheat at 400°F (200°C). This ensures a perfectly cooked chicken with crispy skin!
2. Make the Marinade:
In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. This flavorful marinade is what makes the chicken so delicious.
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Use paper towels to pat the chicken thighs dry, which helps the skin get crispy when cooked. Place the chicken in a large bowl or a resealable bag for marinating.
4. Marinate the Chicken:
Pour the garlic lemon marinade over the chicken thighs, tossing to coat them evenly. Let the chicken marinate for at least 20 minutes, or if you have more time, up to 2 hours in the refrigerator. The longer it sits, the more flavorful it becomes!
5. Arrange and Bake:
Place the marinated chicken thighs skin-side up on a baking sheet or in a baking dish. Bake them in your preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy and golden. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Broil for Extra Crispiness:
If you want your chicken extra crispy, turn on the broiler for an additional 2-3 minutes, but keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!
7. Let It Rest:
Once done, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps keep it juicy!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and serve hot. Enjoy your flavorful and juicy Easy Garlic Lemon Chicken Thighs!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs will work nicely! Just note that they might cook a bit faster, so start checking for doneness around 25-30 minutes. The internal temperature should still reach 165°F (74°C).
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you like a little heat, you can add red pepper flakes to the marinade or even a dash of hot sauce. Adjust according to your spice preference!
Can I Store Leftovers?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or microwave, ensuring they stay juicy.
What Can I Serve with Garlic Lemon Chicken Thighs?
This dish pairs beautifully with sides like roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. The lemony flavor complements starches and greens alike!
