Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs

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When you’re low on time but you need to get a healthy dinner on the table, try these lemon garlic chicken thighs! They’re packed with juicy flavor and they come together so quickly. Pair your chicken thighs with mashed potatoes, salad, or a roasted vegetable to complete this wholesome weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs

Even when we’re in the most sluggish and lazy seasons of life, we deserve delicious food! Sometimes I have to get creative to get supper on the table at a reasonable hour when I’m especially tired, but these lemon garlic chicken thighs are the result of one of those nights – so my creativity paid off!

I had some leftover chicken thighs to use and was craving fried chicken, but I decided to forego the mess and make something a little easier (and more wholesome). I kept the skin on so it would trap in the flavor and moisture, and let me tell you – that was a great decision.

The lemon, garlic, and rosemary add subtle background flavors to support the natural juiciness of the chicken, and while the chicken can speak for itself, it also pairs well with so many different side dishes. Try this recipe with a baked potato (white or sweet, your choice) and a side salad to complete the meal. I have more ideas below, so stay tuned!

Key Ingredients for This Chicken Thigh Recipe

These chicken thighs are so easy to throw together! Sometimes it’s easy to forget that simple ingredients can pack a big punch, but let this recipe be a reminder! We don’t need a complicated fuss to create a delicious – and healthy! – meal.

Chicken Thighs
Olive Oil
Salt and Pepper
Garlic – roughly chopped
Lemon – sliced thickly
Rosemary – finely chopped

How to Make Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs

Step 1: Preheat

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F.

Step 2: Fry Chicken Thighs

Heat a large oven-proof skillet with olive oil over medium heat. Season your chicken thighs with salt and pepper to taste, and then fry the chicken on both sides in the skillet until they’re golden – but not completely cooked through.

Step 3: Season

Squeeze the lemon juice over the chicken and lay the rind in the skillet beside the chicken. Sprinkle garlic and rosemary over the chicken thighs.

Step 4: Bake

Bake the chicken in the skillet for 30 minutes, or until the juices run clear.

Note: I like to baste my chicken with the juice once or twice while baking. This is optional, but I recommend it.

FAQs

Is chicken breast or chicken thigh better for you?

Technically, chicken breasts have fewer calories. However, I believe in moderation. Enjoy what you want as long as it’s a part of a balanced diet.

Do chicken thighs take longer to cook than chicken breasts?

Yes, they typically take longer to cook because they’re fattier and more dense. You’ll want to follow the recipe and make sure your chicken is reaching an internal temperature of 170 degrees F.

Why use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

For some recipes – like this one – you can use whichever cut you like. I chose thighs because I had them left over and I think they were a great choice because they’re a fattier cut. That means they’re richer and more flavorful than a chicken breast.

How long will lemon garlic chicken thighs keep?

You can keep your leftover chicken thighs in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 4-5 days. Just make sure the chicken cools before storing it!

What To Serve with Chicken Thighs

This chicken is delicious alongside this creamy baked mac and cheese!
I love serving chicken with some form of a potato and these garlic herb potatoes au gratin are some of the best!
For another potato option, try our maple roasted sweet potatoes!
If you’d like to add a veggie, roasted brussels sprouts with ham and onions are full of flavor!
Try a salad like this simple caesar salad or spinach, apple, and pomegranate salad.

More Quick and Easy Recipes To Try

Try my chile con queso mac and cheese for an elevated (but quick!) version of everyone’s favorite!
My pork chops in mushroom gravy is a classic comfort meal that everyone will love.
This Pasta all’Amatriciana recipe is a decadent choice that’s ready in only 30 minutes!
You can’t go wrong with cheese enchiladas – they’re sure to become a family favorite!
This garlic mushroom ravioli sauce is absolutely mouthwatering!

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