Looking for a simple yet flavorful chicken dish that’s sure to impress? These baked Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs are just what you need. With juicy chicken thighs, zesty lemon, and the rich flavor of garlic and herbs, this recipe is a perfect weeknight dinner or special occasion treat. The crispy, golden skin and tender meat will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Lemon Garlic Chicken by Tessie's Table. — Photo Credit: Tessie’s Table

These Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs are a perfect go-to recipe when you want something simple yet full of flavor. They work well for a quick weeknight dinner but also shine when served at a special occasion. The balance of lemon and garlic adds a fresh, bright taste, while the chicken remains juicy and tender. Plus, this recipe is flexible – you can easily adjust the seasoning or add your favorite sides to make it your own.

Why you’ll love these Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs

Packed with Flavor:
The combination of lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs creates a burst of flavors that bring the chicken to life. The lemon zest adds a fragrant citrus kick, while the garlic and herbs infuse the chicken with savory goodness.
Easy to Prepare:
You’ll love how simple this recipe is to make. With just a few ingredients and a little prep time, this dish comes together effortlessly. It’s the perfect option for a busy weeknight when you still want something delicious.
Crispy and Tender:
Baking the chicken thighs at a high temperature gives them that perfectly crispy skin while keeping the meat juicy and tender. The result is a restaurant-quality dish right at home.

Up close Lemon Garlic Chicken on a serving platter with parsley.

A Zesty Chicken That’s Perfect for Any Meal

Chicken thighs are one of my go-to ingredients because they’re juicy, flavorful, and affordable. I love the rich, savory taste they offer, especially when paired with bright, fresh ingredients like lemon and garlic. I can almost guarantee this will become one of your new favorite ways to cook chicken!

Ingredients Needed for Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs

Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: These give the dish a crispy skin while keeping the meat juicy. If you prefer boneless thighs, feel free to swap them in.
Olive oil & melted butter: Together, these create a rich base for the chicken, helping it cook to a golden perfection.
Lemon (juice & zest): Fresh lemon adds a vibrant, zesty flavor that cuts through the richness of the chicken.
Herbs & spices: Oregano, thyme, paprika, and red pepper flakes (optional) give the chicken a fragrant, well-rounded seasoning. The salt and pepper balance everything beautifully.
Fresh parsley & lemon slices: For garnish, they add a pop of color and a final touch of freshness when serving.

Ingredients for lemon garlic chicken thighs.

How to make Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs

**For more detailed instructions, please refer to the printable recipe card below.**

Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and place them in a baking dish.

Oil, seasoning, lemon and grlic in a bowl.

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes.

Raw chicken in a dish with oil, seasoning, lemon and garlic poured over the top.

Pour the mixture over the chicken thighs, coating each piece well.

Cooked Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs in a pan.

Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Variations

Add a Honey Glaze: If you love a little sweetness to balance out the tartness of the lemon, try adding a honey glaze to the chicken. After baking the chicken, whisk together 2 tablespoons of honey and a splash of lemon juice in a small saucepan, simmering until slightly thickened. Brush the honey mixture over the chicken before serving for a sweet and tangy finish.
Spicy Lemon Garlic Chicken: For those who like a kick of heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a finely chopped jalapeño to the garlic mixture before marinating.
Herb Variation: If you’re not a fan of oregano or thyme, you can swap them out with other herbs for a different flavor profile. Try rosemary for a woodsy, earthy aroma or basil for a fresh, vibrant twist.
Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Parmesan Crust: For an extra crunchy texture, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken thighs before baking. The cheese will crisp up and add a nutty, savory crust to the chicken.
Citrus Twist: Add a variety of citrus fruits to elevate the flavor of the dish. Instead of just lemon, mix in orange or lime zest and juice to give the chicken a refreshing citrus punch. The combination of citrus will give the chicken a unique and layered flavor, perfect for summer dinners or grilling.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with Roasted Vegetables: For a healthy and hearty meal, serve your Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs alongside roasted vegetables like Carrots, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts. You can roast the vegetables on the same baking tray as the chicken for easy cleanup and a flavorful meal.
Pair with Rice Pilaf: A light and fragrant rice pilaf makes for an excellent side dish to balance the bold flavors of the chicken. Cook your rice with some lemon zest, garlic, and a bit of broth for added flavor.
Serve with a Green Salad: A simple salad with a lemon vinaigrette is a refreshing and crisp contrast to the savory chicken. Try my Orzo Pasta Salad
Serve with Garlic Bread: If you’re in the mood for something more indulgent, pair the chicken with garlic bread for a comforting meal.

Storage and Freezing

How should I store Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs?

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Allow the chicken to cool before sealing to prevent condensation, which can affect the skin. Reheat in the oven or skillet to keep the skin crispy.

Can I freeze Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs?

For longer storage, wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will stay good for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes.

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Lemon Garlic Chicken on a serving platter with parsley.

Tips & Tricks

Pat the Chicken Dry: Pat the chicken thighs dry before baking. This ensures a crispy skin, as moisture can cause the skin to steam rather than crisp up during cooking.
Use Fresh Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest bring out vibrant flavor. The zest releases essential oils that bottled lemon juice can’t match. Always zest the lemon before juicing to maximize the flavor.
Rest the Chicken: After baking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.
Broil for Extra Crispiness: For extra crispy skin, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning, but the broiler will help crisp up the skin nicely.
Marinate for Extra Flavor: Marinate the chicken in the garlic and lemon mixture for 30 minutes to a few hours. This enhances the flavor and helps the seasoning penetrate the meat.

More Easy Mains

FAQ

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs?
Yes, boneless thighs cook faster, so reduce the baking time to about 25-30 minutes. You won’t get crispy skin, but the chicken will still be juicy and flavorful.
Can I use chicken breasts instead?
Yes, but chicken breasts cook quicker and can dry out more easily. Bake them for 25-30 minutes and check the internal temperature, aiming for 165°F (74°C).
Can I add more lemon to the recipe?
Absolutely! You can add extra lemon juice or zest to intensify the flavor. Just be mindful not to overpower the other seasonings.
What if the skin isn’t as crispy as I’d like?
Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) for the last 5 minutes or broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes. This will help get the skin extra crispy.
Can I use other herbs instead of thyme and oregano?
Yes, try rosemary, sage, or tarragon. Adjust the quantity to suit your taste preferences.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken ahead of time or even bake it earlier in the day. Just refrigerate and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
How can I tell if the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, check for clear juices when cutting into the chicken.
Can I make this spicier?
Yes! Add more red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or fresh chopped chili peppers like jalapeños to the seasoning mix for extra heat.
Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
You can, but the skin won’t be crispy. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, and the chicken will be tender and juicy.
What sides go best with this chicken?
Roasted vegetables, rice, Mashed Potatoes, or a simple Pasta Salad are perfect pairings. Anything light and fresh will complement the lemony chicken nicely.