Description
Juicy, zesty chicken thighs marinated in a bright lemon and herb mixture, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or weekend cookouts. This recipe delivers authentic Greek flavors with minimal prep time.
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 pounds or 900 grams)
- 2 fresh lemons, juiced and zested
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) extra virgin olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a medium bowl, combine lemon juice and zest, minced garlic, olive oil, dried oregano, chopped fresh thyme, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Whisk until well blended. Stir in honey or maple syrup if desired.
- Marinate the chicken: Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Add thighs to the marinade and turn to coat evenly. Cover with plastic wrap or transfer to a resealable bag. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 4 hours or overnight for best flavor.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) about 10 minutes before cooking.
- Arrange the chicken: Line a baking dish or rimmed sheet pan with foil or parchment paper. Place chicken thighs skin-side up, spaced evenly.
- Roast the chicken: Bake for 35-40 minutes until skin is golden and crispy and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Spoon pan juices over chicken halfway through cooking to keep moist.
- Rest the chicken: Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
- Optional: For extra crispy skin, broil for 2-3 minutes watching carefully to avoid burning.
Notes
Pat chicken skin dry before marinating for crispy skin. Marinate at least 30 minutes, up to 4 hours or overnight for best flavor. Use an instant-read thermometer to avoid overcooking. Rest chicken 5 minutes before serving. Broil briefly for extra crispiness. This recipe is naturally gluten-free and can be adapted for dairy-free by skipping cheese accompaniments.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 18
- Carbohydrates: 1
- Protein: 27
Keywords: Greek chicken, lemon herb chicken, marinated chicken thighs, easy chicken recipe, quick dinner, barbecue chicken, Mediterranean chicken