Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs
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!
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

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.

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.

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.

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

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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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.
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FAQ

Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs
Equipment
- Baking dish
- Small bowl
- Whisk
- Tongs
Ingredients
- 6 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter melted
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes optional
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon slices for serving
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and place them in a baking dish.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken, coating each piece well.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes or until the skin is golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon slices.