Lemon Garlic Baked Chicken Thighs

The moment I discovered Lemon Garlic Baked Chicken Thighs, it felt like a little culinary treasure had been uncovered in my kitchen. I remember the first time I made it for my family; the kitchen turned into a haven of mouthwatering aromas that filled the air. As the chicken baked, the zesty scent of lemon mingled with the savory essence of garlic, and I could hardly wait to serve it. This dish has become a go-to for busy weeknights and special gatherings alike, as it’s not just easy to prepare but also an absolute crowd-pleaser. The crisp skin and juicy meat are a delight, and the best part? It’s an effortless way to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

What You’ll Need for Lemon Garlic Baked Chicken Thighs

Cooking is all about balance, and the ingredients in Lemon Garlic Baked Chicken Thighs exemplify this beautifully. Each component serves a purpose, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that will excite your taste buds. The star of the show is the chicken thighs, which are rich and juicy, perfect for absorbing the marinade. The zest of the lemons brings brightness, while garlic adds depth, making every bite a flavorful delight.

• 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs: Tender, juicy, and full of flavor, these are the foundation of the dish.
• 2 Tbsp avocado oil: Adds richness and helps the skin crisp up beautifully.
• Zest of 2 lemons: Provides a burst of citrus flavor that brightens the dish.
• 3 Tbsp lemon juice: Enhances the marinade with acidity, balancing the richness of the chicken.
• 8 cloves garlic minced: Infuses the chicken with a savory depth that complements the citrus.
• 1 tsp paprika: Adds a hint of smokiness and a lovely color to the dish.
• ½ tsp sea salt: Enhances all the flavors and makes the chicken deliciously seasoned.

How to Prepare Lemon Garlic Baked Chicken Thighs

Making Lemon Garlic Baked Chicken Thighs is not only straightforward but incredibly rewarding. Follow these simple steps to create a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. The marinade is where the magic begins, so let’s dive right in!

1. Start by gathering all your ingredients. Take your boneless skinless chicken thighs and place them in a zip lock bag. This method keeps the chicken well-coated with the marinade.
2. Add the avocado oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, and sea salt into the bag. Seal it up and give it a good shake, ensuring the chicken is thoroughly coated in the marinade.
3. Now, let the chicken marinate. Ideally, you’d want to let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 2 to 12 hours. However, if you’re short on time, even 20 minutes will work in a pinch. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
4. Once marinated, preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. The high heat will help in achieving that perfect crispy skin.
5. Next, take a large casserole dish and arrange the marinated chicken thighs in a single layer, pouring all the marinade over them. This will ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
6. Bake the chicken for 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Using a meat thermometer is recommended for precise cooking.
7. If you’re after that crispy skin, switch your oven to the High Broil setting for another 5 to 8 minutes. Keep an eye on it, as the high heat will crisp up the fatty bits beautifully.
8. Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every piece remains juicy.
9. Now, serve your Lemon Garlic Baked Chicken Thighs warm, perhaps with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. Enjoy the delightful flavors!

Helpful Notes about Lemon Garlic Baked Chicken Thighs

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, here are some helpful notes to ensure your Lemon Garlic Baked Chicken Thighs turn out perfect every time.

• Storage: Properly store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This dish remains delicious even when reheated.
• Freezing: You can also freeze the marinated chicken for up to three months. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
• Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with sides like roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
• Seasoning Variations: Experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary in the marinade for a different flavor profile.
• Cook Time Variations: Depending on your oven and the thickness of the chicken, cooking time may vary. Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer.

Serving This Lemon Garlic Baked Chicken Thighs

When it comes to serving Lemon Garlic Baked Chicken Thighs, the options are plentiful! Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience:

• With Sides: Serve the chicken with sides like creamy mashed potatoes or seasoned quinoa to complement the flavorful dish.
• Salads: Pair it with a light citrus salad for a refreshing touch that enhances the lemon flavors.
• Meal Prep: These chicken thighs make for fantastic meal prep. Cook a larger batch and enjoy them throughout the week.
• Casual Gatherings: Perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers, you can easily whip this up to impress your guests.
• Seasonal Pairings: In the summer, serve with grilled corn on the cob or a fresh tomato salad, and in winter, consider roasted root vegetables as a hearty accompaniment.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Lemon Garlic Baked Chicken Thighs is a dish that masterfully balances flavor and simplicity. The combination of zesty lemon and aromatic garlic creates a dish that is sure to become a favorite in your home. I encourage you to try this recipe; you won’t be disappointed! It’s perfect for any occasion, bringing the family together around the dinner table with ease.

Lemon Garlic Baked Chicken Thighs

The ultimate comfort food, Lemon Garlic Baked Chicken Thighs are juicy, flavorful, and easy to make. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. With zesty lemons and savory garlic, it’s a must-try!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Baking Sheet
• Oven

Ingredients

  

• 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 2 Tbsp avocado oil
• 2 Zest of 2 lemons
• 3 Tbsp lemon juice
• 8 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp sea salt to taste

Instructions

 

• Start by gathering all your ingredients. Take your boneless skinless chicken thighs and place them in a zip lock bag. This method keeps the chicken well-coated with the marinade.
• Add the avocado oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, and sea salt into the bag. Seal it up and give it a good shake, ensuring the chicken is thoroughly coated in the marinade.
• Now, let the chicken marinate. Ideally, you’d want to let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 2 to 12 hours. However, if you’re short on time, even 20 minutes will work in a pinch. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Once marinated, preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. The high heat will help in achieving that perfect crispy skin.
• Next, take a large casserole dish and arrange the marinated chicken thighs in a single layer, pouring all the marinade over them. This will ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
• Bake the chicken for 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Using a meat thermometer is recommended for precise cooking.
• If you’re after that crispy skin, switch your oven to the High Broil setting for another 5 to 8 minutes. Keep an eye on it, as the high heat will crisp up the fatty bits beautifully.
• Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every piece remains juicy.
• Now, serve your Lemon Garlic Baked Chicken Thighs warm, perhaps with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. Enjoy the delightful flavors!

Notes

• Storage: Properly store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This dish remains delicious even when reheated.
• Freezing: You can also freeze the marinated chicken for up to three months. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
• Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with sides like roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
• Seasoning Variations: Experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary in the marinade for a different flavor profile.
• Cook Time Variations: Depending on your oven and the thickness of the chicken, cooking time may vary. Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer.

Keyword baked chicken thighs, Easy Chicken Recipes, lemon garlic chicken, Weeknight Dinner

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Meet Olivia Bennett

For me, cooking is about connection. Whether I’m making a quick breakfast or a three course dinner, I focus on the feeling the food gives you. I love the entire process of food blogging, from chopping the first onion to adjusting the lighting for the final photo. I’m the one who reminds the team to slow down and really taste the food as we go, ensuring every recipe has that “home-cooked” warmth.