This Easy Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs recipe is a breeze to make! Juicy chicken thighs are marinated in zesty lemon and fragrant garlic, bringing out wonderful flavors that everyone loves.
Cooking these chicken thighs is almost foolproof! I like to serve them with some rice or veggies, making dinner both tasty and colorful. Trust me, you’ll want to make this again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs are best for this recipe. They stay juicy and flavorful. If you prefer leaner meat, boneless skinless thighs can work, but cook them a little less time to avoid drying out.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is what brings the punch of flavor! If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder as a last resort. Just use a smaller amount, about 1/4 teaspoon per clove.
Lemon: Fresh lemons make a big difference in taste. You can substitute with bottled lemon juice in a pinch, but fresh is always best! If you’re out of lemons, use vinegar for a different, but still tangy kick.
Chicken Broth: Homemade is fantastic, but store-bought works just fine. If you want a lighter option, water can substitute, but it’ll be less flavorful.
How Do You Get The Skin Crispy on Chicken Thighs?
Crispy skin is not just tasty; it gives great texture! Follow these tips:
- Pat Dry: Always dry the chicken thighs with paper towels. Moisture makes it hard to get crispy skin.
- Hot Oil: Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This helps the skin crisp up quickly.
- Don’t Rush: Let the chicken cook undisturbed for a few minutes. Flipping too soon can tear the skin.
- Final Searing: If you want extra crispiness, broil the chicken for a couple of minutes after cooking!
Easy Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested (plus 1 lemon halved for cooking)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and cooking, and then about 15-20 minutes for simmering the chicken to get it perfectly tender and flavorful.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels; this helps them crisp up nicely when cooking. Once dry, generously season both sides of the chicken with salt and black pepper.
2. Searing the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken thighs skin side down. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the skin turns golden brown and crispy. Flip them over carefully to avoid splatter!
3. Adding Garlic and Lemon:
Once you’ve flipped the chicken, add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for about 1 minute, stirring frequently so the garlic doesn’t burn. Then, pour in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth. Place the halved lemons cut side down in the skillet for extra flavor.
4. Simmering the Dish:
Reduce the heat to medium and cover the skillet. Let the chicken simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This will ensure your chicken is cooked through and juicy!
5. Finishing Touches:
After the cooking time, remove the cover and add the butter to the skillet. Let the sauce reduce slightly for around 3-4 minutes, using a spoon to baste the chicken with the delicious sauce that’s been created.
6. Serving:
Garnish your chicken with fresh thyme sprigs for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm alongside your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or rice, and enjoy your flavorful and juicy lemon garlic chicken thighs!
FAQ for Easy Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Keep in mind that they will cook faster, so check for doneness around 12-15 minutes to prevent drying out.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the oven or on the stovetop while adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.
Can I Substitute the Chicken Broth?
Absolutely! If you don’t have chicken broth, you can use vegetable broth or even water. Just keep in mind that the flavor may be a bit milder.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
If you like a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce along with the garlic. Adjust the amount to your taste for the perfect kick!
