Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Thighs: A Simple and Flavorful Recipe

When it comes to a hearty and delicious dinner, Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Thighs should be at the top of your list. This dish combines the succulent juiciness of bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs with the bright, zesty flavor of fresh lemon and a blend of aromatic herbs. Perfectly roasted in the oven, this recipe is simple to prepare and results in a satisfying meal that will impress your family or guests.

Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner, a special family gathering, or an elegant dinner party dish, Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Thighs deliver incredible flavor without a lot of effort. The combination of fresh herbs like basil, oregano, and rosemary with lemon creates a vibrant flavor profile that complements the rich, tender chicken perfectly. In just under an hour, you’ll have a dish that is both comforting and full of flavor.

---

Ingredients

To make Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Thighs, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 Bone-In, Skin-On Chicken Thighs
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
• 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice
• 1 teaspoon Dried Basil
• 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
• 1 teaspoon Dried Rosemary
• Salt and Pepper, to taste
• 1 Lemon, sliced
• Fresh Parsley, for garnish (optional)

---

Directions

Making Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Thighs is simple, and with just a few steps, you’ll be on your way to a delicious meal:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your chicken will cook evenly and reach that crispy golden-brown perfection.
2. Prepare the Herb Mixture: In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, dried basil, dried oregano, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. This herb-infused oil will serve as a marinade for the chicken and will infuse it with incredible flavor as it roasts.
3. Season the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish and brush them generously with the herb mixture. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated in the fragrant olive oil and herb mixture to maximize flavor.
4. Add Lemon Slices: Slice the lemon into thin rounds and arrange the slices on top of the chicken. The lemon will release its juices as it bakes, adding a citrusy zing that balances the richness of the chicken.
5. Roast the Chicken: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the chicken for 35–45 minutes. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin should be crispy and golden brown.
6. Garnish and Serve: Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and added flavor. Serve the chicken thighs hot with your favorite side dishes.

---

Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35–45 minutes
• Total Time: 45–55 minutes
• Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
• Servings: 4

---

Tips for Perfect Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Thighs

1. Crispy Skin: For extra crispy skin, make sure to pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning. This helps to remove excess moisture, allowing the skin to crisp up during baking.
2. Herb Variations: If you don’t have dried herbs on hand, you can use fresh herbs instead. Fresh rosemary, oregano, and basil will work just as well for this recipe—just use about three times the amount of dried herbs listed.
3. Even Cooking: To ensure the chicken cooks evenly, make sure the pieces are of similar size. You can also flip the chicken halfway through the cooking time to achieve an even roast.
4. Make It Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix. It gives the chicken a little extra kick without overpowering the lemon and herbs.
5. Side Dishes: Serve Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Thighs with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal.

---

Why Choose Bone-In, Skin-On Chicken Thighs?

Using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for this recipe is highly recommended for several reasons:

1. Flavor: The skin helps to lock in moisture during cooking, ensuring that the chicken remains juicy and flavorful.
2. Crispiness: Roasting the chicken with the skin on allows for that crispy, golden texture that makes each bite so irresistible.
3. Tenderness: The bone in the chicken thigh helps the meat cook more slowly and evenly, ensuring that it stays tender and moist.

---

Pairing Suggestions for Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Thighs

Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Thighs are versatile and can be paired with a variety of side dishes. Here are some of the best pairings:

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with roasted garlic pair beautifully with the zesty chicken.
• Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus are excellent grilled alongside the chicken, offering a smoky, charred contrast to the citrusy chicken.
• Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb alternative, serve with cauliflower rice to soak up the herb and lemon juices.
• Fresh Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the roasted chicken.

---

FAQs

Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A: While you can substitute chicken breasts, bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are ideal for this recipe as they are more flavorful and tender. Chicken breasts tend to dry out more quickly when roasted.

Q: How do I know when the chicken is done?
A: To check if the chicken is done, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C). The skin should be golden and crispy as well.

Q: Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
A: Yes, marinating the chicken overnight in the herb mixture will enhance the flavors. Just be sure to refrigerate it and bring it to room temperature before roasting for even cooking.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the chicken and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. However, it’s best served fresh to maintain the crispiness of the skin.

---

Conclusion

Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Thighs are the perfect blend of simplicity and flavor. With a few basic ingredients and easy steps, you can create a meal that’s bursting with zest and aromatic herbs. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, this recipe is sure to impress. The crispy skin, juicy meat, and tangy lemon will keep everyone coming back for seconds. Don’t forget to pair it with your favorite sides for a complete and satisfying meal.

Print