Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs
Juicy lemon garlic chicken thighs baked to perfection with cherry tomatoes and aromatic herbs, ideal for a flavorful, quick dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and pat dry the chicken thighs.
- Place the chicken in a bowl.
- Toss the thighs with lemon juice, crushed garlic, and thyme to coat all sides.
- Refrigerate the chicken for 2 hours, turning pieces at least once.
- Place the thighs on a rack in a baking pan, skin side up.
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense flavor, marinate the chicken thighs overnight instead of just 2 hours. You can substitute the margarine with olive oil for a healthier option, or use butter for a richer taste. If you don't have cherry tomatoes, regular diced tomatoes will work, but adjust cooking time as needed. To enhance the dish, consider adding a splash of white wine during baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these lemon garlic chicken thighs with a side of Apricot Rice for a delightful contrast of flavors. Roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad complement the dish well. For a Mediterranean touch, consider pairing it with a light tzatziki sauce or serving it alongside Mediterranean recipes that feature vibrant ingredients.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cooked chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but this may affect the skin's crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs contains roughly 310 calories, with 7g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (119% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (71% of the Daily Value), and potassium (47% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and calcium.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breast, but keep in mind that the cooking time may vary. Chicken breasts tend to cook faster than thighs, so check for doneness at around 25 minutes to avoid drying them out.
What can I substitute for dried thyme?
If you don't have dried thyme, you can use dried oregano or Italian seasoning as alternatives. Fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley can also be used, but remember to increase the quantity as fresh herbs are less concentrated than dried ones.
Can I grill these chicken thighs instead of baking?
Absolutely! Grilling adds a wonderful smoky flavor. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the marinated chicken thighs for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).