This Easy Garlic Lemon Chicken Thighs recipe is a winner! Juicy chicken thighs are marinated in a zesty lemon and garlic mix, giving them an amazing flavor!
You won’t believe how simple it is to whip up this dish. Just mix the marinade, let the chicken soak up the goodness, and then bake. Dinner is served!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are great for this recipe as they stay juicy while baking. If you’re looking for a lighter option, boneless, skinless thighs can also work, but adjust the cooking time to prevent drying out.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for that amazing flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be used instead, but I recommend fresh for the best taste!
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish. Bottled lemon juice is a quick substitute, but fresh really enhances the flavor! If you’re out of lemons, vinegar can be a last-resort alternative.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds a nice richness. You can swap it with melted butter for a different taste or use avocado oil for a neutral flavor.
How Do You Properly Marinate Chicken?
Marinating is a great way to infuse flavors into your chicken. Here’s how to get it right:
- Mix the marinade ingredients well. Make sure the garlic and spices are evenly distributed.
- Use a bowl or a sealable bag to coat the chicken thoroughly. The longer you marinate, the more flavorful the chicken will be.
- Keep it in the fridge! Always marinate raw chicken in the refrigerator to prevent bacteria growth.
For best results, let those chicken thighs soak for at least an hour, but if you can leave them for a few hours or overnight, that’s even better!
Easy Garlic Lemon Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1-2 lemons)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or lemon slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating. After marinating, you’ll need about 40 minutes for baking. So, total time will be around 1 hour and 20 minutes, but marinating longer will give you even more flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s well mixed. This zesty marinade is what will make your chicken so delicious!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and toss them thoroughly in the marinade. Ensure each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. For the best taste, aim for 1-2 hours!
3. Preheat and Prepare:
When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s preheating, take a baking dish and arrange the marinated chicken thighs skin-side up. Pour any leftover marinade over the chicken to keep it juicy as it cooks.
4. Bake the Chicken:
Place the chicken in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy. If you want it extra crispy, you can broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end!
5. Let It Rest:
Once done, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Pour your flavorful garlic lemon chicken thighs onto plates, garnishing with fresh parsley or lemon slices if you like. Serve hot and enjoy every bite!
Enjoy your flavorful, juicy garlic lemon chicken thighs!
FAQs about Easy Garlic Lemon Chicken Thighs
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Absolutely! While bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs add flavor and moisture, boneless thighs will work as well. Just reduce the baking time to about 25-30 minutes, checking for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight is a great idea! It allows the flavors to penetrate deeper into the meat, making it even more delicious. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator to keep it safe.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftover chicken, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can enjoy it cold in salads or sandwiches or reheat it in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
What Should I Serve with This Dish?
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides! Consider serving it over rice or pasta to soak up the delicious sauce, or alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a lighter meal.
