This Easy Garlic Lemon Chicken Thighs recipe is a winner! Juicy chicken thighs soak up tangy lemon and tasty garlic, making every bite burst with flavor.
Cooking this dish is a breeze, so I often whip it up for dinner after a long day. Serve it with rice or veggies, and you’ve got a super simple meal that feels like a treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs are perfect due to their flavor and moisture. If you prefer, you can use skinless thighs or even chicken breasts, but remember that they might dry out faster.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives this dish its punch. If you run out of fresh garlic, garlic powder can work in a pinch (1/4 teaspoon per clove), but it won’t have the same vibrant flavor.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice is best for a bright taste, but bottled lemon juice can be used if you’re in a hurry. Just keep in mind that the flavor may not be as fresh.
Thyme: Dried thyme is convenient, but using fresh thyme will enhance the flavor even more. You can also substitute it with rosemary or oregano if you like!
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Skin is Crispy?
Crispy chicken skin is all about the cooking technique. Start with a hot skillet and make sure the chicken thighs are well dried before seasoning. Here’s how to achieve that crunchy texture:
- Use medium-high heat to achieve a good sear. Be patient and don’t rush flipping the chicken.
- Cooking skin-side down first lets the fat render out, making the skin crispy. Let it cook undisturbed for several minutes.
- Once cooked, avoid covering the pot until the end. This keeps the moisture in check, ensuring your chicken is crispy!
Easy Garlic Lemon Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1-2 lemons)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you around 10 minutes to prep and about 25-30 minutes to cook. So, in total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to finish for this tasty dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting your chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps them get crispy when cooked! Then, sprinkle salt and black pepper on both sides of the chicken generously.
2. Sear the Chicken:
Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs, skin-side down. Cook them for about 6-8 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Flip the chicken over and continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes. After that, take the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Garlic Lemon Sauce:
Now, lower the heat to medium. In that same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, just until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
4. Combine Broth and Lemon:
Pour in the chicken broth and fresh lemon juice. Then add the lemon zest and thyme. Give everything a good stir and scrape up any delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan—it’s all flavor!
5. Cook the Chicken in Sauce:
Return the chicken thighs back to the skillet, placing them skin-side up. Pour some of that tasty sauce over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the chicken simmer in the flavorful sauce for about 10-15 minutes. You want the chicken to cook all the way through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Finish with Butter:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove the lid and add a tablespoon of unsalted butter to the sauce. Let it melt and baste your chicken with the sauce for about 2-3 minutes as it thickens slightly.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if you’d like. Serve your delicious Easy Garlic Lemon Chicken Thighs hot, with the zesty lemon garlic sauce drizzled over the top. Enjoy your savory meal!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Lemon Chicken Thighs
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used if you prefer! Just reduce the cooking time by a few minutes as they will cook faster. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to keep it moist.
Can I Adjust the Lemon Flavor?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder lemon flavor, reduce the amount of lemon juice to 2 tablespoons instead of 1/4 cup. You can also balance the acidity with a touch of honey or sugar if desired.
What Should I Serve This Dish With?
This chicken pairs beautifully with a side of rice, potatoes, or roasted vegetables. A simple green salad also complements the dish nicely and adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors!
