This Baked Lemon Chicken Thighs recipe is light and refreshing, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a healthier option without sacrificing taste. The combination of lemon, garlic, and herbs creates a flavorful dish that pairs well with various sides.
With simple ingredients like chicken thighs, lemon pepper seasoning, and fresh herbs, this recipe is easy to prepare and ideal for quick oven dinners. It’s a great addition to your collection of Mediterranean-inspired chicken recipes.
Overview of Baked Lemon Chicken Thighs
Baked lemon chicken thighs offer a delightful combination of flavors that brighten up any dinner table. This dish features juicy, bone-in chicken thighs marinated in a zesty lemon garlic mixture, making it a standout among Greek chicken recipes. The crispy skin and tender meat are complemented by the fresh herbs and vibrant roasted vegetables.
This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy oven dinners that are both healthy and satisfying. The use of lemon pepper seasoning, oregano, and thyme enhances the dish, creating a harmonious blend that is sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet family meal, baked lemon chicken thighs are an excellent choice.
Preparation and Cooking Time
Preparing baked lemon chicken thighs is a straightforward process that takes about 50 minutes from start to finish. With a prep time of just 15 minutes, you can quickly marinate the chicken and get it ready for the oven.
The cooking time is approximately 35 minutes, allowing the chicken to roast to perfection while you prepare your sides. This recipe serves four, making it ideal for chicken and vegetable dinners with family or friends.
Ingredients for a Flavorful Dish
The key to delicious baked lemon chicken thighs lies in the quality of the ingredients. This recipe calls for:
- Bone-in chicken thighs
- Lemon Pepper Seasoning
- Dried Oregano
- Dried Thyme
- Finely minced garlic
- Lemon juice
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
These ingredients work together to create a flavorful marinade that infuses the chicken with a refreshing lemony taste. The addition of roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers not only adds color but also enhances the Mediterranean-inspired theme of the dish.
Marinating the Chicken
Marinating the chicken is a crucial step in achieving maximum flavor. Combine lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon pepper seasoning, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper in a bowl to create a zesty marinade.
Once mixed, pour the marinade over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well coated. Allow them to marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a more intense flavor. This step is essential for transforming ordinary chicken into a succulent lemon garlic chicken masterpiece.
Baking to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) before placing the marinated chicken thighs in a baking dish. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute. This ensures that each bite is tender and juicy, making it a standout option among baked chicken with herbs recipes.
Serving Suggestions
To serve, plate the baked lemon chicken thighs alongside the vibrant roasted vegetables. The combination of colors and flavors creates an inviting presentation that is sure to impress your guests.
Consider garnishing with fresh herbs and lemon slices for an extra touch of freshness. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or crusty bread, making it a versatile option for any occasion.
Easy Baked Lemon Chicken Thighs
These baked chicken thighs are marinated in a zesty lemon garlic mixture and roasted to perfection. The dish takes about 50 minutes from start to finish and serves 4 people, making it a fantastic option for chicken and vegetable dinners.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons Lemon Pepper Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried Oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried Thyme
- 4 cloves finely minced garlic
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon pepper seasoning, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are well coated. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
- Bake the Chicken: Bake the chicken thighs in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy.
- Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite vegetables or a side salad.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 2g