Ah, the humble chicken thigh. So versatile, so easy to cook, and yet, it’s often overlooked in favor of more exotic or trendy protein sources. But not today! Today, we’re shining a spotlight on this poultry powerhouse with 20 zesty lemon chicken thigh recipes that are sure to spice up your weeknight dinner routine.
From classic comfort food to international-inspired flavors, these mouthwatering dishes showcase the incredible versatility of chicken thighs and the bright, citrusy flavor of lemon. Whether you’re in the mood for something quick and easy or a more elaborate meal, we’ve got you covered with recipes ranging from 20-minute meals to slow-cooked Sunday stews.
So grab your lemons, your garlic, and your favorite spices – it’s time to get cooking! In this article, we’ll count down our top 20 lemon chicken thigh recipes, each one more delicious than the last. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick dinner solution or a foodie seeking inspiration for your next culinary adventure, these zesty and aromatic dishes are sure to become new favorites in your household.
**Stay tuned for the full list of recipes!**
Honey Garlic Lemon Chicken Thighs
Succulent chicken thighs infused with the sweet and savory flavors of honey, garlic, and lemon make for a deliciously easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, and lemon juice.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a shallow baking dish and brush the honey-garlic-lemon mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway through cooking time.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Thighs
Brighten up your dinner table with this citrusy twist on classic roasted chicken thighs! This easy recipe combines the tanginess of lemon zest, the earthiness of thyme, and the richness of olive oil to create a mouthwatering main course.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 lemons, zested
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together lemon zest, olive oil, and thyme.
3. Place chicken thighs in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the lemon-herb mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs
Elevate your dinner game with this bright and citrusy recipe that combines the flavors of lemon, pepper, and garlic for a moist and savory chicken dish. Perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, black pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Place chicken thighs in a shallow baking dish and brush the lemon mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Grilled Lemon Rosemary Chicken Thighs
Elevate your outdoor cooking with this refreshing twist on classic grilled chicken. The brightness of lemon and the earthiness of rosemary create a harmonious balance of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 1/4 cup)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, red pepper flakes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken thighs in a shallow dish; brush the lemon-rosemary mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F).
5. Let chicken rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
One-Pan Lemon Butter Chicken Thighs
Savor the bright citrus flavor of lemon and the richness of butter, all in one pan with this simple yet impressive recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken thighs; cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, until browned and cooked through.
4. Remove chicken from pan; set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium; add remaining 1 tablespoon of butter, lemon juice, garlic, and thyme.
6. Simmer mixture for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Return chicken to the pan; spoon some of the lemon-butter sauce over each thigh.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or lemon slices if desired.
Cooking Time: About 25-30 minutes
Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs
Elevate your dinner game with this bright and citrusy take on classic chicken thighs, infused with the richness of parmesan cheese and the savory flavor of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a shallow baking dish and brush the lemon-garlic mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Sprinkle oregano, salt, and pepper over the chicken.
5. Top each thigh with shredded parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken Thighs with Potatoes
This classic comfort food recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. The slow cooker does all the work, infusing the chicken thighs and potatoes with a bright and citrusy flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker.
2. Add the cubed potatoes on top of the chicken.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil. Pour over the chicken and potatoes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Lemon Soy Glazed Chicken Thighs
Brighten up your dinner routine with this zesty and flavorful recipe! Tender chicken thighs are smothered in a tangy lemon-soy glaze, perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, lemon juice, honey, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
4. Place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the glaze evenly over the chicken thighs, making sure they’re fully coated.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Crispy Lemon Chicken Thighs with Thyme
A bright and citrusy twist on classic chicken thighs, these crispy lemon chicken pieces are perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. The combination of tender chicken, crunchy exterior, and aromatic thyme will satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken thighs and toss to coat evenly.
4. Dip each thigh in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place the coated thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through and crispy.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Dijon Chicken Thighs with Asparagus
This recipe combines the richness of chicken thighs with the brightness of lemon and the earthiness of asparagus, all tied together with a tangy Dijon sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken thighs to the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Roast asparagus on a separate baking sheet with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until tender.
6. Bake chicken for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through. Serve with roasted asparagus and garnish with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lemon Basil Chicken Thighs with Orzo
Brighten up your weeknight dinner routine with this refreshing and flavorful recipe. Tender chicken thighs, infused with the brightness of lemon zest and the subtle sweetness of basil, pair perfectly with a creamy orzo dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon zest, juice, olive oil, garlic, basil, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken thighs to the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Let sit for at least 30 minutes.
4. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Stir in butter until melted.
5. Remove chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Bake chicken for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve chicken thighs with orzo and garnish with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Lemon Chicken Thighs with Chili Flakes
Add a burst of citrusy heat to your meal with this flavorful and aromatic recipe for Spicy Lemon Chicken Thighs with Chili Flakes.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp chili flakes
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, chili flakes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs
Brighten up your dinner plate with this flavorful and aromatic dish, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
3. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
4. Place chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Spread the garlic-butter mixture evenly over each chicken thigh, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
6. Drizzle lemon juice over the top of each chicken thigh.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Tarragon Chicken Thighs with Mushrooms
Brighten up your dinner plate with this flavorful recipe that combines the zesty taste of lemon, the subtle charm of tarragon, and the earthy richness of mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp fresh tarragon leaves, chopped
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, tarragon, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken thighs in a large bowl and pour the marinade over them. Toss to coat evenly.
4. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and mushrooms; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Add chicken to the skillet and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sheet Pan Lemon Chicken Thighs with Vegetables
Brighten up your weeknight dinner routine with this easy and flavorful sheet pan recipe, featuring juicy lemon chicken thighs paired with a medley of colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 lemons, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 1 large yellow squash, sliced
– 1 large red onion, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon slices, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken thighs on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper. Brush the lemon mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Arrange the vegetables around the chicken in a single layer.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Ginger Chicken Thighs with Rice
Brighten up your dinner routine with this flavorful and aromatic dish, featuring tender chicken thighs infused with the zesty goodness of lemon and ginger, served atop a bed of fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together ginger, garlic, lemon juice, and honey.
3. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Brush the ginger-lemon mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until browned. Transfer to a baking dish.
5. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
6. Bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot with cooked rice and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Paprika Chicken Thighs with Olives
Brighten up your dinner plate with this zesty and savory recipe, featuring juicy chicken thighs smothered in a tangy lemon paprika sauce, served with briny olives.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken thighs and toss to coat evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with sliced olives.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Balsamic Glazed Chicken Thighs
Brighten up your weeknight dinner with this tangy and sweet lemon balsamic glazed chicken thighs recipe. A perfect combination of citrusy freshness and rich flavors, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a large baking dish and brush the glaze all over them.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the top of each thigh.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is caramelized.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Cilantro Chicken Thighs with Quinoa
This recipe combines the zesty freshness of lemon, the pungency of cilantro, and the comfort of quinoa to create a deliciously well-rounded dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together cilantro leaves, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a shallow baking dish and brush with the cilantro-lemon mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water. Fluff with fork once cooked.
6. Serve chicken thighs on top of quinoa, garnished with additional cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Mustard Chicken Thighs with Green Beans
Brighten up your dinner plate with this zesty and flavorful dish, featuring tender chicken thighs smothered in a tangy lemon mustard sauce, served alongside crisp green beans.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup lemon mustard (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and brush with the lemon mustard mixture.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Toss green beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a separate baking sheet. Roast alongside chicken for 15-20 minutes or until tender.
6. Serve chicken thighs with roasted green beans.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 mouth-watering lemon chicken thigh recipes perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. From classic combinations like honey garlic and lemon herb to more adventurous flavors like spicy chili flakes and tarragon mushrooms, there’s something for everyone in this collection. Each recipe is carefully crafted with simplicity and ease of preparation in mind, so you can enjoy the bright and citrusy taste of lemon chicken without breaking a sweat. Whether you’re a busy professional or a family looking for a reliable dinner solution, these zesty lemon chicken thigh recipes are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.