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Crispy Baked Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Herb Butter Sauce

crispy baked lemon garlic chicken thighs - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for crispy baked lemon garlic chicken thighs served with a silky herb butter sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs / 700g)
  • 1 large lemon, zested and juiced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme (or rosemary)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or lightly oil a cast-iron skillet.
  2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
  3. In a small bowl, blend the softened butter with minced garlic, lemon zest, chopped parsley, thyme, and a pinch of black pepper. Mix until combined and set aside.
  4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken thighs and rub to coat evenly.
  5. Place the chicken thighs skin-side up on the baking sheet or skillet. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Halfway through (around 15 minutes), use tongs to baste the chicken with any rendered juices.
  6. Check for doneness: the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) and the skin should be golden and crisp. If needed, cook a few more minutes but watch closely to avoid burning.
  7. Remove the chicken from the oven and immediately spoon the herb butter sauce over each thigh while hot.
  8. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Notes

Pat the chicken skin dry thoroughly for extra crispiness. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking. Use bone-in, skin-on thighs for juicier meat and crispier skin. Rest the chicken after baking to keep it juicy. Reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven to maintain crispiness; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken thighs, lemon garlic chicken, crispy chicken, baked chicken, herb butter sauce, easy dinner, weeknight meal, gluten-free