These Garlic Lemon Chicken Thighs are full of flavor, with a zesty lemon kick and a touch of garlic that makes every bite delicious! They’re juicy, tender, and just perfect for any meal.
Cooking them is a breeze! I love how the aroma fills my kitchen, making it feel extra cozy. Serve them with rice or veggies, and you’ve got a meal that everyone will enjoy! 🍋🐔
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs give the best flavor and juiciness. If you prefer, you can use boneless, skinless thighs for a lighter option, but be careful to adjust cooking time as they cook faster.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for its rich flavor. Substitute with avocado oil for a neutral taste or vegetable oil for a budget-friendly option.
Garlic: Fresh garlic delivers a punch of flavor here. If you don’t have fresh, garlic powder can work in a pinch, using about 1/8 teaspoon per clove.
Fresh Herbs: Fresh rosemary and thyme make the dish pop. If using dried herbs, use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
Lemons: In addition to the juice, grilling halved lemons adds a unique flavor. If lemons are scarce, use limes for a different twist.
How Can I Lock in Flavor with Marinades?
Marinating the chicken is essential for achieving rich flavors. The acid from the lemon juice helps tenderize the meat while infusing it with citrus notes. Here’s how to get it right:
- Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl. The longer you marinate, the more flavor you’ll get.
- A minimum of 1 hour is good, but for best results, marinate overnight in the fridge.
- Ensure every piece is coated well for even taste—use your hands if needed!
Remember to shake off excess marinade before grilling; this helps achieve a nice char without steaming the chicken. Happy cooking!
How to Make Garlic Lemon Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 2 large lemons
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Grilling:
- 2 lemons, halved
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 1 hour to marinate the chicken (or ideally overnight). Allow about 15-20 minutes for grilling, making it a perfect flavorful dish to enjoy with minimal effort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together well to create a delicious marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs to the marinade, making sure each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight, to soak in all those yummy flavors.
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you prefer cooking indoors, you can also use a grill pan on the stove.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken thighs out of the marinade, shaking off any extra marinade. Place the chicken on the grill, skin-side down first. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until that skin is nicely browned.
5. Flip and Grill the Lemons:
Carefully flip the chicken thighs over. Next, add the halved lemons to the grill, placing them cut-side down. This will caramelize their sugars and enhance their flavor beautifully.
6. Finish Cooking:
Continue to cook the chicken for another 6-8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The chicken should be juicy and cooked through!
7. Rest and Garnish:
Once cooked, remove the chicken and grilled lemons from the grill. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes to keep it moist before serving. This is a great time to prepare your serving dish!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your grilled chicken thighs with freshly chopped parsley and serve them with the grilled lemons at the side. They make a great complement to each other. Enjoy your flavorful Garlic Lemon Chicken Thighs, perfect for any meal!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Absolutely! If you’re using boneless chicken thighs, reduce the cooking time to about 4-6 minutes per side, as they cook faster than bone-in thighs. Just be sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Herbs?
If you don’t have fresh herbs on hand, dried herbs work perfectly fine! Use 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme instead of the fresh versions. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so a little goes a long way!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over medium-low heat or microwave it gently until warmed through, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture if needed.
Can I Grill the Chicken in the Oven?
Yes, you can! If you don’t have access to a grill, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place the marinated chicken thighs on a baking sheet. Roast for about 25-30 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This will give you a juicy result with crispy skin!
