These Garlic Lemon Chicken Thighs are juicy, flavorful, and super easy to make! With zesty lemon and tasty garlic, they’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in and skin-on thighs give the juiciest results and extra flavor. If you’re looking for healthier options, boneless, skinless thighs or chicken breasts can be swapped in, but they won’t be as moist.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for bold flavor. In a pinch, garlic powder can work, but I prefer the flavor of fresh. You might also try roasted garlic for a sweeter taste.
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps the skin crisp up nicely on the grill. For a different flavor, you could use avocado oil or even butter, but keep butter at a lower heat to avoid burning.
Lemons: Fresh lemons provide the best flavor. If you’re out, bottled lemon juice will suffice, but fresh zest is irreplaceable, so grab fresh lemons if you can.
Oregano and Paprika: Dried oregano gives a nice herby taste. You could use Italian seasoning as an alternative. Smoked paprika adds flavor depth, but regular paprika works too if you prefer a milder taste.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked and Juicy?
Grilling chicken thighs is all about managing heat and timing. Keeping the skin-side down creates a crispy texture while letting the meat stay juicy. Here are some tips:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat for a good sear.
- Cook skin-side down for 6-7 minutes; resist the urge to flip too soon.
- Use a meat thermometer to check when it reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.
- Let the chicken rest after grilling; this helps the juices redistribute.
This simple practice keeps your chicken thighs flavorful and tender every time! Enjoy your delicious meal!
How to Make Garlic Lemon Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 2 lemons
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 2 lemons, halved (for grilling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of active preparation time, plus at least 1 hour to marinate the chicken (or overnight for best flavor). The grilling will take approximately 15 minutes, making the total time around 30 minutes, not including marinating time. Perfect for a flavorful dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. This delicious marinade will infuse your chicken with amazing flavors!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl with the marinade, making sure to thoroughly coat each piece. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let the chicken marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for the best flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Take the chicken thighs out of the marinade, letting any excess drip off so they’re not too soggy when grilling.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs skin-side down on the hot grill. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and has lovely grill marks. Then, flip the chicken and cook for another 6-7 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures juicy and safe-to-eat chicken!
5. Grill the Lemons:
In the last few minutes of grilling, add the halved lemons, cut side down, to the grill. Let them grill for about 3-4 minutes, until they are nicely caramelized. This will enhance their flavor and are perfect for squeezing over your chicken!
6. Finish Up and Serve:
Once the chicken is perfectly cooked and the lemons are grilled, remove them from the grill and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This helps retain its juices. Serve the chicken thighs garnished with fresh chopped parsley and the grilled lemon halves on the side for squeezing. Enjoy your vibrant and flavorful meal!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used! Just reduce the grilling time to about 4-5 minutes per side, as they cook faster than bone-in thighs. Make sure to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
What if I Don’t Have Fresh Lemons?
If fresh lemons aren’t available, you can substitute the juice with about 1/4 cup of bottled lemon juice. For the zest, you can omit it, or use lemon peel if you have any leftover from cooking. Fresh is best for flavor, though!
Can I Make This Recipe in the Oven?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the marinated chicken thighs on a baking sheet. Bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can broil them for the last 3-5 minutes for a crispier skin.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This will help maintain the texture!
