This recipe for Easy Garlic Lemon Chicken Thighs is perfect for a tasty dinner! Juicy chicken thighs are cooked with zesty lemon and fragrant garlic, making every bite burst with flavor.
I love how simple it is to make—just marinate, sear, and bake! Plus, the smell of garlic fills the kitchen, making everyone wonder what’s cooking. Get ready for a yummy feast!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs are great for juiciness and flavor. If you prefer healthier options, skinless thighs can work, but they may lose some moisture during cooking.
Olive Oil: This adds a lovely richness. For a different flavor, try avocado oil or melted butter. Both will complement the lemon and garlic nicely.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for the best taste. If you’re out, use garlic powder—about 1 teaspoon will do. However, using fresh garlic boosts the flavor significantly.
Lemon: Fresh lemons are the star here with both juice and zest. If you don’t have them, bottled lemon juice can substitute, but it’s not quite as fresh and vibrant.
Broth or Water: Chicken broth adds depth, but if you only have water, that’s okay too! You could also use white wine for a unique twist.
How Do You Get Crispy Chicken Skin?
Crispy skin is all about the right cooking technique. Start by patting the chicken thighs dry—this helps to remove excess moisture, which can make the skin soggy.
- Use medium-high heat to get the skillet hot enough to sear the skin quickly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; this allows the skin to crisp up and not steam.
After searing, the baking step will keep them juicy while finishing the cooking process. Timing is key, so keep an eye on them as they bake to get that perfect golden color!
Easy Garlic Lemon Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to cook, giving you a total of about 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a busy weekday dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s nice and hot when your chicken is ready to go in.
2. Make the Marinade:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is combined. This will be the flavorful coating for your chicken.
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Take the chicken thighs and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is important for achieving crispy skin! Now, use your hands to rub the garlic-lemon mixture all over the chicken thighs. Make sure to get some of it under the skin too—this adds more flavor!
4. Sear the Chicken:
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, place the chicken thighs skin-side down and let them sear for about 5-6 minutes. You want the skin to become golden brown and crispy during this time.
5. Add Moisture:
After searing, flip the chicken thighs over with tongs. Pour the chicken broth or water into the skillet around the thighs. This will keep the chicken moist while it bakes.
6. Bake!
Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The skin should be golden and the chicken juicy.
7. Rest and Garnish:
Once done, take the skillet out of the oven and allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat. Finally, garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy your Easy Garlic Lemon Chicken Thighs hot with your favorite sides—think roasted veggies, rice, or a crisp green salad!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Lemon Chicken Thighs
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs will work well in this recipe. Just reduce the cooking time to about 15-20 minutes in the oven, as they cook faster than bone-in thighs. Make sure to check the internal temperature for doneness at 165°F (74°C).
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken thighs overnight is a great way to enhance the flavor! Simply prepare the garlic-lemon mixture and coat the chicken. Cover and refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook. It will soak up all the delicious flavors!
How Should I Store Leftover Chicken Thighs?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven or microwave until heated through. Enjoy them cold on a salad or as a sandwich filling for a quick meal!
Can I Make This Recipe on the Grill?
Definitely! You can grill marinated chicken thighs on medium-high heat for about 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through. This will give a lovely smoky flavor and crispy skin. Just be sure to monitor the internal temperature for safety!
