Crispy Lemon Chicken Thighs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy Lemon Chicken Thighs are the perfect balance of crispy, savory, and bright. The skin-on chicken thighs give you the ultimate crispiness, while the fresh thyme and tarragon add herbal depth. The squeeze of lemon right at the end provides a citrusy kick, making every bite refreshing and delicious. This recipe is ideal for a quick, weeknight dinner but impressive enough for a dinner party. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—serve it with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
• Fresh thyme
• Fresh tarragon
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• ½ lemon, cut into 8 rounds

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper.
3. Sear the chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs skin-side down. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
4. Add herbs and lemon: Turn the chicken thighs over. Add fresh thyme and tarragon sprigs to the pan, and arrange the lemon rounds around the chicken.
5. Roast the chicken: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy.
6. Finish and serve: Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Squeeze the roasted lemon rounds over the chicken for extra citrus flavor. Serve and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 3-4
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Add Garlic: For extra flavor, you can add a few smashed garlic cloves to the pan when you add the herbs and lemon.
• Different Herbs: Swap out the thyme and tarragon for rosemary and sage for a slightly different herbal profile.
• Spicy Option: Sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over the chicken before roasting for a hint of heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through. For extra crispiness, reheat under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs, but they won’t get as crispy. Bone-in, skin-on thighs are preferred for the best texture.

2. Can I make this recipe on the stovetop only?

Yes, you can sear the chicken on the stovetop and then reduce the heat to low to finish cooking. However, the oven method provides the best crispy skin.

3. What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

If you don’t have fresh thyme or tarragon, dried herbs can work, though fresh is always best. Use about one-third of the amount if using dried herbs.

4. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Chicken breasts can be substituted, but they cook faster and can dry out more easily, so be sure to monitor the internal temperature carefully.

5. What side dishes go well with crispy lemon chicken thighs?

This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or rice. You can even serve it with quinoa or couscous for a complete meal.

6. Can I use other citrus fruits instead of lemon?

Yes, you can use other citrus fruits like oranges or limes for a different flavor profile, but lemon works best with this combination of herbs.

7. How do I make sure the chicken skin is crispy?

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before cooking to remove excess moisture. Also, make sure the skillet and oil are hot before adding the chicken.

8. Can I make this dish on the grill?

Yes, you can grill the chicken thighs over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Add the lemon rounds and herbs during the last few minutes of cooking.

9. Can I marinate the chicken before cooking?

Yes, marinating the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for 30 minutes to a few hours can add more flavor.

10. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it does not require any breadcrumbs or flour.

Conclusion

Crispy Lemon Chicken Thighs are a simple yet delicious dish that elevates weeknight dinners with crispy skin, juicy meat, and the perfect balance of fresh herbs and lemon. The roasting method ensures that every bite is tender and full of flavor, while the crispy skin gives it that perfect crunch. With just a few ingredients and a short cook time, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to make a quick and impressive meal. Enjoy!

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