Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs are juicy, tasty, and full of flavor! The zesty lemon and garlic make every bite a burst of goodness. These thighs are perfect for a quick dinner on busy nights!
I love how simple this dish is to prepare! Just mix up the marinade, let the chicken soak it up, and bake. It’s easy enough for weeknights and fancy enough for guests!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs give this dish juicy flavor. If you only have boneless thighs, they will still work, but adjust cooking time since they tend to cook faster.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds robust flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, but fresh tastes much better. I never skip this ingredient!
Lemons: The juice of one lemon provides acidity, while the slices add a beautiful presentation. If you have limes, they can be a zesty substitute, though they do change the overall flavor.
Olive Oil: This acts as the base for the marinade, adding richness. You can use any light cooking oil, but extra virgin olive oil offers the best taste.
Thyme: Fresh thyme is fantastic if you can find it. If not, dried thyme is a perfect alternative. I often prefer fresh for that vibrant aroma!
What’s the Best Way to Marinate Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating your chicken allows the flavors to soak in, making each bite delicious. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Mix the marinade ingredients in a bowl until well combined.
- Add the chicken thighs and ensure they’re fully coated. Using your hands works best!
- Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or up to overnight in the fridge for deeper flavor.
By marinating, you elevate the dish with rich lemon and garlic notes that everyone will love!
How to Make Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
For the Marinade:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 lemons (1 sliced and 1 juiced)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh if available)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh thyme sprigs
How Much Time Will You Need?
Total time for this dish is about 1 hour. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the marinade and chicken, and then let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. Finally, roasting in the oven will take about 35-40 minutes. If you prefer a crispy skin, you can add a few extra minutes under the broiler.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is important as it ensures the chicken cooks evenly and gets that nice crispy skin.
2. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well to combine into a delicious marinade.
3. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs into the bowl with the marinade. Make sure to coat the chicken pieces thoroughly so they soak up all those amazing flavors. For best results, let them marinate for at least 30 minutes—longer if you have time, as it will enhance the flavor even more!
4. Prepare for Roasting:
In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, place the marinated chicken thighs skin-side up. Arrange the lemon slices around the chicken for added flavor and a beautiful touch. Be sure to pour any remaining marinade over the chicken for extra taste.
5. Roast the Chicken:
Put the skillet or Dutch oven in the preheated oven and roast for about 35-40 minutes. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the skin is golden brown.
6. Crisp Up the Skin (Optional):
If you want that crispy skin, switch your oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn—just until it gets nice and crispy.
7. Rest and Serve:
Once done, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle. If you’d like, garnish with fresh thyme sprigs before serving to add a lovely touch. Enjoy your flavorful lemon garlic chicken thighs!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, you can! Just keep in mind that boneless chicken thighs may cook a bit faster than bone-in. Check for doneness around 25-30 minutes of roasting time, looking for the same internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Lemons?
No worries! You can use bottled lemon juice as a substitute. Aim for about 2 tablespoons to replace the juice of one lemon. Just remember that fresh lemons will provide a brighter flavor, so if you can, squeeze some fresh juice along with the bottled juice for the best results!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers 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, or microwave in short intervals, checking to ensure they don’t dry out.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken overnight in the fridge will enhance the flavors even more. Just make sure to cover your bowl tightly or use a ziplock bag for easy cleanup and to prevent spills!
