Dinner just got easier and more delicious with these Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Thighs. This simple, flavorful recipe is a fantastic budget friendly dinner option that delivers big taste without breaking the bank. You’ll love how quickly these come together for a satisfying meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Chicken Thighs: Use bone-in, skin-on for the best flavor and juiciness, but boneless, skinless work too (adjust cooking time).
- Lemons: Fresh lemon juice and zest are essential. You can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch, but fresh is superior.
- Dried Herbs: Italian seasoning is a great all-in-one option. Feel free to use individual dried herbs like oregano, thyme, and rosemary.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is best. Garlic powder can be used if you don’t have fresh.
- Olive Oil: A good quality olive oil enhances flavor. Any neutral cooking oil works as a substitute.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2-2.5 lbs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large lemon, zested and juiced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Spices & Herbs:
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 (depending on chicken size)
- Tools Needed: Large baking sheet, mixing bowl, whisk, meat thermometer
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Chicken
Pat your chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up nicely. Place the chicken in a large mixing bowl.
2. Make the Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, oregano, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Ensure all ingredients are well combined.
3. Coat the Chicken
Pour the lemon-herb marinade over the chicken thighs. Use your hands to thoroughly coat each piece, making sure the seasoning gets under the skin slightly. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or up to 30 minutes.
4. Preheat and Arrange
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Arrange the chicken thighs skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
5. Roast to Perfection
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) with a meat thermometer. If you like extra crispy skin, you can broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
6. Rest and Serve
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your chicken moist and flavorful. Enjoy this budget friendly dinner!
Variation Ideas
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a little heat.
- Different Herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme added at the end.
- Veggies on the Side: Roast chopped potatoes, carrots, or broccoli florets on the same sheet pan with the chicken for a complete budget friendly dinner.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or briefly in the microwave. Reheating in the oven will help maintain the crispy skin.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can you use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can! Adjust the cooking time to about 20-25 minutes, as boneless chicken cooks faster.
Q: Do you need to marinate the chicken for a long time?
A: Even 15-30 minutes at room temperature will infuse flavor, but you can marinate in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours for deeper taste.
Q: What side dishes pair well with this chicken?
A: This chicken is excellent with roasted vegetables, rice, quinoa, or a simple green salad for a complete budget friendly dinner.
Q: How do you know when the chicken is fully cooked?
A: The most reliable way is to use a meat thermometer. The thickest part of the chicken should read 165°F (74°C).
Q: Can you prepare this recipe ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the marinade and coat the chicken a few hours in advance, then just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to cook.