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Crispy Lemon Herb Baked Chicken Thighs

crispy lemon herb baked chicken thighs - featured image
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This recipe delivers perfectly juicy and tender chicken thighs with irresistibly crispy skin, bright lemon flavor, and fresh herbs. Easy to prepare and ideal for a cozy dinner or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and allow it to reach temperature for at least 10 minutes.
  2. Pat the chicken thighs dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure crispy skin.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon zest and juice, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
  4. Toss the chicken thighs in the lemon herb mixture, coating each piece fully, including under the skin for extra flavor.
  5. Arrange the chicken thighs skin side up on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet. If no rack is available, place directly on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, checking at 30 minutes for browning. If skin is not crispy enough, broil for 2-3 minutes while watching closely to avoid burning.
  7. Check doneness with a meat thermometer; internal temperature should be 165°F (74°C).
  8. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
  9. Optionally, squeeze extra lemon juice over the chicken before serving.

Notes

Patting the chicken dry before seasoning is essential for crispy skin. Avoid overcrowding the pan to allow air circulation. Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness. Rest chicken before cutting to keep it juicy. Broil briefly if skin is not crispy enough. Leftovers reheat best in the oven to maintain crispiness; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken thighs, baked chicken, crispy chicken, lemon herb chicken, easy dinner, weeknight meal, gluten-free, dairy-free

Find it online: https://breezybake.com/crispy-lemon-herb-baked-chicken-thighs-recipe-perfectly-juicy-and-tender/