Name: Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on or boneless, skinless); 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon (zested and juiced); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs recipe is a quick and tasty way to bring an exciting twist to your chicken dishes. The marinade made from lemon, garlic, and a few pantry staples ensures that the chicken thighs are bursting with flavor from the first bite. Chicken thighs are incredibly juicy and tender, and the tangy citrus complements the savory garlic, making every bite a burst of deliciousness. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be adapted to your personal taste!

Ingredients

6 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on or boneless, skinless)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon (zested and juiced)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together to make the marinade.
Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2-3 hours, to allow the flavors to meld.
Preheat your grill, oven, or skillet to medium-high heat.
If cooking on the stove, heat a skillet with a tablespoon of oil. Once hot, add the chicken thighs, skin side down (if using skin-on), and cook for 6-8 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Flip the chicken and cook for another 6-8 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
If cooking in the oven, preheat the oven to 400°F. Place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Marinating time: 30 minutes (or up to 3 hours)
Cooking time: 15-35 minutes (depending on cooking method)

Variations

Spicy Lemon Garlic Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for some heat.
Lemon Garlic Chicken with Herbs: Experiment with different fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, basil, or parsley to change up the flavor profile.
Lemon Garlic Chicken with Veggies: Roast the chicken thighs with your favorite vegetables, like potatoes, carrots, and onions, for a one-pan meal.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or warm them up in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

How long should I marinate the chicken?

For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but 2-3 hours is ideal. You can marinate it overnight for a more intense flavor.

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs will work well for this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time since they will cook faster than bone-in thighs.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they tend to be drier than thighs. Adjust the cooking time and check the internal temperature to ensure they don’t overcook.

What can I serve with lemon garlic chicken thighs?

Lemon garlic chicken thighs pair well with a variety of side dishes like roasted potatoes, sautéed vegetables, rice, or a simple salad.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the marinade and let the chicken marinate in the fridge for several hours or overnight. This will save you time on the day you plan to cook.

Can I cook the chicken on a grill?

Yes! Grilling adds an extra layer of flavor and can be done by preheating your grill to medium-high heat and cooking the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

What’s the best way to check if the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165°F. This ensures that the chicken is safe to eat and cooked through.

Can I use fresh garlic instead of minced?

Yes, fresh garlic will work just as well! Minced garlic will offer the best flavor, but you can also use garlic paste or even garlic powder if that’s what you have on hand.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze cooked chicken thighs for up to 2-3 months. Just make sure they’re sealed in an airtight container or freezer bag.

Conclusion

Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs offer a delicious, easy-to-make meal that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. The combination of zesty lemon, savory garlic, and tender chicken thighs makes for a satisfying dish that’s versatile enough to pair with any side you desire. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a meal everyone will love!