If you're looking for a dish that's both comforting and vibrant, these Lemon Herb Baked Chicken Thighs are exactly what you need. They’re juicy, full of flavor, and bring a touch of sunshine to your dinner table with their zesty, herby goodness. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering.
Chicken thighs are the star, offering rich flavor and juiciness. Using bone-in, skin-on pieces helps keep them moist during baking. Olive oil is the base of the marinade, adding a subtle fruitiness and helping everything stick. Lemon juice and zest infuse the chicken with bright citrus notes, while garlic provides a savory depth. Rosemary and thyme enhance the dish with fresh, aromatic flavors. Salt and black pepper are your basic seasonings, with a hint of heat from the red pepper flakes. Adding lemon slices during baking amplifies the citrus aroma, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley at the end adds a pop of color and freshness.
These chicken thighs pair beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad. For a heartier meal, serve them over a bed of garlic mashed potatoes or alongside some buttery rice pilaf. A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the lemony notes perfectly.
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready once the chicken is marinated. While the oven heats, grab a large bowl and whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. This fragrant mixture is the key to flavoring your chicken.
Next, add the chicken thighs to the bowl, turning them over to make sure each piece is well-coated. Let them soak up the flavors for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, marinate them overnight in the fridge to really let the flavors meld.
Arrange the marinated thighs skin-side up on a baking sheet. Scatter the lemon slices around the chicken to enhance the citrus flavor as they bake. Place the sheet in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C).
Once baked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy the burst of flavor!
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