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Crispy Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Thighs

crispy lemon herb roasted chicken thighs - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for golden, crispy chicken thighs with a bright lemon and fresh herb flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners, this dish delivers juicy meat and crackling skin every time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 to 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (1.52 lbs / 700900 g)
  • 1 large lemon, zested and juiced
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until well mixed.
  3. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
  4. Toss the chicken thighs in the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Let sit for at least 10 minutes at room temperature or marinate for 30 minutes to an hour in the fridge for more flavor.
  5. Arrange the thighs skin-side up in a baking dish or roasting pan, spacing them slightly apart.
  6. Roast in the oven for 35-40 minutes. About halfway through, baste with pan juices if desired.
  7. Check doneness with a meat thermometer; internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
  8. Remove from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes.
  9. Serve hot, garnished with extra fresh herbs or lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

Patting the chicken skin dry before marinating is crucial for crispiness. If skin isn’t crispy enough, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end, watching carefully to avoid burning. If chicken browns too fast but isn’t cooked through, tent with foil and continue roasting. Boneless skin-on thighs can be used but reduce cooking time to 25-30 minutes.

Nutrition

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