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Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Thighs

lemon herb roasted chicken thighs - featured image
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Juicy, crispy chicken thighs marinated in fresh lemon, garlic, and herbs, then roasted to golden perfection. This easy dinner is bursting with flavor and comfort, perfect for weeknights or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 lbs)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Zest of 1 large lemon (about 1 tablespoon)
  • Juice of 1 large lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (flat-leaf preferred)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • Additional lemon slices for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, parsley, smoked paprika, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  3. Add chicken thighs to the bowl and toss well to coat. Massage marinade under the skin if desired. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours.
  4. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and set a wire rack on top, if using.
  5. Arrange chicken thighs skin-side up on the rack or pan. Pour any extra marinade over the thighs, spacing them out.
  6. Roast in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Halfway through (at 15 minutes), baste thighs with melted butter.
  7. If skin isn’t crisp, broil for 2-3 minutes, watching closely.
  8. Check doneness with a meat thermometer (165°F in thickest part). If juices run pink, add 5-10 minutes and check again.
  9. Remove chicken from oven and tent loosely with foil. Let rest for 5-10 minutes.
  10. Garnish with extra lemon slices and fresh herbs. Spoon pan juices over the top before serving.

Notes

For extra crispy skin, dry chicken thoroughly and use a wire rack. Marinate longer for deeper flavor. Swap herbs as desired; use olive oil instead of butter for dairy-free. Leftovers taste even better the next day and are great for salads or wraps.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon chicken, roasted chicken thighs, easy dinner, herb chicken, gluten-free, weeknight meal, juicy chicken, comfort food

Find it online: https://bitematrix.com/lemon-herb-roasted-chicken-thighs-recipe-easy-juicy-dinner/