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!
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.