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Crispy Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Thighs

crispy lemon herb roasted chicken thighs - featured image

This recipe delivers perfectly crispy, juicy chicken thighs infused with bright lemon and fresh herbs. Ready in under 45 minutes, it’s a quick, easy, and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 pounds / 900 g)
  • 1 large lemon, zested and juiced
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • Optional: 1 small shallot, thinly sliced
  • Optional: Fresh lemon slices for roasting
  • Optional: ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Optional: ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes or dash of cayenne

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper to form a fragrant paste.
  4. Toss the chicken thighs in the herb-lemon mixture, making sure to get under the skin without tearing it.
  5. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Scatter optional lemon slices and shallots around the chicken if using.
  6. Roast in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
  7. Carefully flip the thighs skin-side up and roast for another 15-20 minutes until the skin is golden, bubbly, and crispy.
  8. Check doneness with a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If unavailable, cut into the meat to ensure juices run clear.
  9. Remove from oven and immediately squeeze fresh lemon juice over the hot chicken.
  10. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in juices.

Notes

Patting the chicken skin dry is crucial for crispiness. If skin isn’t crispy enough, broil for 1-2 minutes watching carefully to avoid burning. Marinating the thighs for up to 1 hour deepens flavor. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent soggy skin. Rest chicken before serving to keep juices locked in.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon herb chicken, roasted chicken thighs, crispy chicken, easy chicken recipe, weeknight dinner, gluten-free, dairy-free