🍋 Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs
Description
Juicy, crispy-skinned chicken thighs are marinated in a zesty blend of lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs, then seared and roasted to perfection. This Mediterranean-inspired dish delivers bold flavor with minimal effort—perfect for weeknight meals or impressing guests.
Ingredients
- 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- Zest and juice of 2 lemons
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp paprika
Instructions
- Prep the chicken: Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Marinate: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, thyme, rosemary, and parsley. Pour over chicken, coating well. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours in the fridge).
- Sear: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). In an oven-safe skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium-high heat. Sear chicken thighs skin-side down until golden (about 5–7 mins). Flip and cook 2–3 mins more.
- Roast: Transfer skillet to the oven and roast for 20–25 minutes, or until internal temp hits 165°F (74°C).
- Rest & Serve: Let chicken rest 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges if desired.
Tips & Notes
- Crispier skin: Start with dry chicken and don’t overcrowd the pan.
- Don’t skip the zest! It adds intense lemon flavor without the acidity.
- No oven-safe skillet? Sear in a pan, then transfer to a baking dish for roasting.
- Pair with: Roasted potatoes, couscous, rice pilaf, or a fresh green salad.
- Storage: Keeps in the fridge for 3–4 days. Great for meal prep!
Serving Size
- Makes 4 servings (2 thighs per person)
Nutritional Info (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 390
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 28g
- Carbs: 3g
- Fiber: <1g
- Sugar: <1g
- Sodium: ~250mg (varies with salt use)
Health Benefits
- Chicken thighs: High in protein, iron, and B vitamins.
- Olive oil: Heart-healthy fats and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Lemon juice: Boosts vitamin C and digestion.
- Garlic & herbs: Support immune function and reduce inflammation.
- Bone-in meat: Offers better flavor and higher zinc & collagen content.
Q & A
Q: Can I use boneless, skinless thighs?
A: Yes! Reduce sear time slightly and bake for 15–18 minutes.
Q: Can I grill this instead?
A: Absolutely. Grill over medium heat for ~6–7 mins per side or until cooked through.
Q: What if I only have dried herbs?
A: Use 1 tsp of each dried herb in place of 1 tbsp fresh, but fresh gives the best flavor.
Q: Can I meal prep this?
A: Yes—reheats beautifully! Store cooked thighs in airtight containers up to 4 days.
Q: What wine pairs well with this dish?
A: A crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the lemon and herbs nicely.
Let me know if you’d like a printable card version, pairing guide, or low-sodium modification!