Zesty Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs
Indulge in the savory delight of Zesty Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs, a recipe inspired by a cozy evening of experimentation in the kitchen. This dish features tender, juicy chicken pieces marinated in a robust blend of fresh lemons and aromatic garlic, creating a tantalizing flavor profile that brings family and friends together. Perfect for casual dinners or special gatherings, these chicken thighs hold their own, even against the most ardent breast lovers! With the skin on for extra crunch and richness, this easy-to-follow recipe promises delicious results every time. Simply pop it in the oven and enjoy the wonderful citrus aroma wafting through your home.
6
Servings
400
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
meaty skinless chicken pieces
2-3 lbs (with bone, preferably thighs)
whole lemons
2 (zested and juiced)
lemon juice
2 tablespoons (freshly squeezed)
garlic cloves
4 (minced)
olive oil
1 tablespoon (for marinade)
lemon-pepper seasoning
to taste (for seasoning chicken)
Instructions
1
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2
Spray a deep baking dish or roasting pan with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
3
In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of olive oil, the zest of both lemons, the juice from the lemons, and the minced garlic cloves, creating a bright marinade.
4
Arrange the chicken pieces in the baking dish, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
5
Generously sprinkle the lemon pepper seasoning over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
6
Pour the lemon-garlic marinade over the chicken, and feel free to add the lemon rinds to the dish for an extra burst of flavor.
7
Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), turning the chicken halfway through cooking for even browning.
8
For a delightful twist, consider saving the juices from the baking dish. Combine it with a splash of half-and-half to create a creamy sauce perfect for drizzling over pasta.
Nutrition Information
15g
Fat
3g
Carbs
50g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of this chicken recipe?
The recipe is for Zesty Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes 6 servings.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
The oven should be preheated to 400°F (200°C).
How long should the chicken bake?
Bake the chicken for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
What is the safe internal temperature for the chicken?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What kind of chicken pieces are best for this recipe?
Meaty bone-in chicken pieces, preferably thighs, weighing 2-3 lbs are recommended.
How many lemons are required?
You will need 2 whole lemons for zesting and juicing, plus an additional 2 tablespoons of lemon juice.
How much garlic is used in the marinade?
The recipe calls for 4 minced garlic cloves.
What type of oil is used in the marinade?
One tablespoon of olive oil is used to create the marinade.
What seasoning is used to coat the chicken?
Lemon-pepper seasoning is generously sprinkled over the chicken.
Should the baking dish be prepared before adding chicken?
Yes, spray a deep baking dish or roasting pan with non-stick cooking spray.
Can I add the lemon rinds to the baking dish?
Yes, adding the lemon rinds to the dish provides an extra burst of flavor.
Should I turn the chicken during the cooking process?
Yes, turn the chicken halfway through cooking for even browning.
How do I make a creamy sauce from the drippings?
Combine the saved juices from the baking dish with a splash of half-and-half.
What is the best way to serve the optional cream sauce?
The sauce is perfect for drizzling over pasta.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains 400 calories.
What is the protein content per serving?
Each serving provides 50g of protein.
How much fat is in this dish?
There are 15g of fat per serving.
What is the carbohydrate count for this recipe?
This is a low-carb dish with only 3g of carbohydrates per serving.
What is the flavor profile of this chicken?
It features a robust blend of fresh lemons and aromatic garlic for a tantalizing citrus flavor.
How should the chicken be arranged in the pan?
Arrange the chicken pieces so they are evenly spaced in the baking dish.
What components make up the bright marinade?
The marinade consists of olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, and minced garlic.
Does the recipe suggest skin-on or skinless chicken?
While the ingredient list mentions skinless, the description suggests keeping the skin on for extra crunch and richness.
Is this recipe suitable for special gatherings?
Yes, it is described as perfect for both casual dinners and special gatherings.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include chicken, roasted chicken, lemon garlic, easy recipe, dinner, family meal, high protein, and citrus flavors.
How much total chicken weight is needed?
You need between 2 and 3 pounds of chicken.
Is the lemon juice freshly squeezed?
Yes, the recipe specifies using freshly squeezed lemon juice.
What is the texture of the finished chicken?
The chicken is tender, juicy, and golden brown.
Is this an easy recipe to follow?
Yes, it is described as an easy-to-follow recipe that promises delicious results.
How does the recipe describe the aroma?
It is described as a wonderful citrus aroma wafting through your home.