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Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs

This dish features tender chicken thighs seared to crispy perfection, infused with bright lemon juice and pungent garlic. The process involves pan-searing to develop a golden crust, then finishing with a squeeze of lemon and garlic for a flavorful, juicy final result with a glossy appearance. It’s a simple yet vibrant meal that balances savory richness with citrusy brightness.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless) patted dry
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil extra-virgin preferred
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 whole lemon zested and juiced
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • chopped parsley optional for garnish

Equipment

  • Heavy skillet or cast-iron pan
  • Tongs
  • Sharp knife
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin, then season generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat until hot, then add the olive oil, letting it shimmer and ripple.
  3. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down into the skillet, pressing lightly to ensure contact. Cook undisturbed for 6-8 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy, hearing a satisfying sizzle and seeing browning.
  4. Flip the thighs carefully with tongs, then add the minced garlic around the chicken. Cook for another 6-8 minutes, flipping once or twice, until the meat is cooked through and the garlic becomes fragrant.
  5. Squeeze the juice of a lemon over the chicken, then sprinkle with lemon zest. Continue cooking for 2-3 more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to finish cooking to 75°C (165°F).
  6. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a plate for 5 minutes to retain its juices. Meanwhile, tilt the pan to gather any flavorful pan juices.
  7. Drizzle the pan juices over the rested chicken and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately, enjoying the crispy skin and juicy, flavorful meat.