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Crispy Lemon Rosemary Chicken Thighs

crispy lemon rosemary chicken thighs - featured image

This recipe delivers crispy skin chicken thighs infused with fresh rosemary and zesty lemon for a flavorful, comforting meal that’s quick and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 3 lbs / 1.4 kg)
  • 1 large lemon, zested and juiced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped (or 2 teaspoons dried)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • Salt and pepper to taste (coarse sea salt recommended)
  • 1 tablespoon butter, melted
  • Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the 6 chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Let rest for about 10 minutes.
  2. In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary, 3 minced garlic cloves, lemon zest from 1 lemon, 2 tablespoons olive oil, and 1 tablespoon melted butter. Stir well.
  3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  4. Heat a cast iron or oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place chicken thighs skin-side down in the pan and cook for 7-8 minutes without moving until skin is golden brown and crispy.
  5. Flip the chicken thighs carefully using tongs. Spoon the lemon-rosemary-garlic mixture over the tops.
  6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F (74°C).
  7. Remove chicken from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or thyme if desired.

Notes

Pat chicken skin completely dry before seasoning to ensure crispiness. Do not move chicken while searing skin-side down to avoid sticking. Add garlic and herb mixture only after flipping to prevent burning. Let chicken rest after cooking to lock in juices. For extra crispiness, almond flour can be sprinkled on skin before cooking. Use dairy-free butter for a dairy-free variation. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken thighs, lemon rosemary chicken, crispy chicken, easy dinner, herb chicken, weeknight meal, comfort food