These garlic lemon chicken thighs are juicy, flavorful, and super easy to make! The zesty lemon and bold garlic give the chicken a bright and tasty kick. Perfect for any meal!
I love how this dish fills my kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma. Plus, it’s great served with rice or veggies. Who doesn’t enjoy a meal that’s both simple and satisfying? 🍋🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are juicy and tender, making them perfect for grilling. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with chicken breasts, but they may need less cooking time.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives a robust flavor. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder in a pinch works, but start with less as it’s stronger.
Olive Oil: I love using extra virgin olive oil for its rich taste, but any neutral oil, like canola or avocado oil, can be used too. Just avoid oils with strong flavors that might clash with the lemon.
Lemon: Fresh lemons are key! For a zestier flavor, you could use lime. If you’re out of fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can work but doesn’t pack the same punch.
Herbs: Dried oregano and thyme add great flavor, but feel free to experiment with fresh herbs if you have them on hand. Basil or rosemary could also be nice alternatives!
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken is Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling chicken thighs can be tricky, but it’s all about timing and temperature. Here are some tips to get that perfect grilled chicken:
- Make sure the grill is preheated properly. A hot grill is essential for good sear marks and keeping the chicken juicy.
- When placing the chicken on the grill, avoid moving it around too much. Let it sit for 6-7 minutes on each side without poking it—this allows it to develop those grill marks.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature—it should reach 165°F (75°C) to be safe to eat.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute; this will keep it moist and tasty.
How to Make Garlic Lemon Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 lemons, halved (for grilling)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Garlic Lemon Chicken Thighs recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep, plus a minimum of 30 minutes for marinating (or up to 4 hours for an extra flavor boost). You’ll then need roughly 15 minutes for cooking on the grill. Total time is about 55 minutes if you let it marinate longer. Perfect for a quick and flavorful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, add the minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Use a whisk to mix everything together until it’s well combined. This will be the tasty marinade that gives your chicken great flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl with the marinade. Use your hands or a spoon to make sure each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. If you have the time, letting it marinate for up to 4 hours will give even more flavor!
3. Prepare the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This will ensure your chicken gets a nice sear and those lovely grill marks!
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off (you can discard the leftover marinade). Place the chicken thighs onto the hot grill. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). You’ll know they’re done when they have beautiful grill marks!
5. Grill the Lemons:
In the last few minutes of cooking the chicken, place the halved lemons on the grill cut-side down. Grill them until they are caramelized and have nice grill marks. This adds a lovely flavor when you squeeze the lemon juice over the chicken!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove them from the grill along with the grilled lemons. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes to keep it juicy. Serve the garlic lemon chicken thighs garnished with freshly chopped parsley, along with the grilled lemon halves on the side for squeezing over the chicken. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Thighs Instead of Boneless?
Absolutely! If using bone-in thighs, increase the cooking time to about 10-12 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Ensure you check the thickest part of the chicken for doneness, and let it rest as directed.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through. For the best flavor, consider squeezing fresh lemon juice on top before serving.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight is a fantastic way to maximize flavor! Just make sure to keep it in the fridge while marinating and use it within 24 hours for the best quality.
What Can I Use Instead of Fresh Garlic?
If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can substitute it with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Keep in mind the flavor will be a bit milder, so feel free to adjust according to your taste. Mixing it into the marinade will help distribute the flavor evenly.
