– **Title**: Garlic Lemon Chicken Thighs
– **Ingredients**:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, juiced (plus lemon slices for garnish)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– **Instructions**:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are well coated. If possible, let them marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).
4. Lay lemon slices on top of the chicken thighs for added flavor and presentation.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy and golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
6. Once done, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious garlic lemon chicken thighs!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs are juicy and flavorful. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try chicken breasts, but they may dry out. Bone-in cuts retain moisture better, giving you tastier results.
Olive Oil: This oil adds a great flavor and helps crisp the skin. If you’re out, you can replace it with vegetable oil or avocado oil. Both have high smoke points and work well in this recipe.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for flavor, but if you don’t have any, garlic powder will work too. Use about 1 teaspoon of powder as a substitute. Just add it to the skillet with the lemon juice.
Lemon: Fresh lemon is a must for brightness. If you don’t have a lemon, you could use lime juice or a splash of vinegar, but the flavor won’t be quite the same. Always use fresh citrus when possible!
Herbs: Oregano and thyme are great here. You can switch to Italian seasoning if that’s what you have. Fresh herbs provide more flavor, but dried works in a pinch; just use half the amount as they are more concentrated.
How Do You Achieve Crispy Chicken Skin?
Crispy skin can make or break this dish, so pay special attention to this step! The key lies in proper searing and the right temperature. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by heating the oil until it shimmers—this indicates it’s hot enough.
- Place the chicken skin-side down without overcrowding; this helps heat circulate.
- Let it cook undisturbed for 5-7 minutes until the skin is crispy; resist the urge to flip too early!
- Don’t skip the oven step, as it cooks the chicken evenly without burning the skin.
After removing the chicken, let it rest for about 5 minutes. This keeps the juices locked in, ensuring a tender bite.
How to Make Garlic Lemon Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 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 thyme (fresh or dried)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to cook. You’ll spend a little time searing the chicken and then let it bake in the oven. It’s a quick and flavorful meal that’s easy to make!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your chicken cooks evenly and gets that nice crispy skin.
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. While the oil is heating up, season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken thighs to the skillet, skin-side down. Sear them for about 5-7 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and golden brown. This step is key to getting that delicious texture!
3. Add Garlic and Seasonings:
Carefully flip the chicken thighs over using tongs and add the minced garlic to the pan. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring gently to avoid burning the garlic. Next, pour in the lemon juice and zest, then sprinkle the oregano and thyme over the chicken. The aroma will be amazing!
4. Bake the Chicken:
Now, add lemon wedges around the chicken thighs in the skillet for extra flavor. Then, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Roast the chicken for about 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This ensures your chicken is cooked through while remaining juicy.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chicken is done, carefully remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute. Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Don’t forget to serve with extra lemon wedges on the side for that zesty kick!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, you can absolutely use boneless chicken thighs! Just reduce the cooking time to about 18-20 minutes in the oven, as boneless pieces cook faster. Keep an eye on the internal temperature to ensure they reach 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you need a substitute for olive oil, you can use melted butter, avocado oil, or canola oil. Each alternative will provide a slightly different flavor, but all work well for searing and roasting the chicken.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the chicken in a baking dish and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 10-15 minutes. This keeps the skin crispy!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Definitely! You can add vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or sliced bell peppers to the skillet around the chicken before roasting. Make sure they are cut into similar sizes to ensure even cooking. Just toss them with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper before adding them to the skillet!
