Roasted Lemon Chicken Thighs With Potatoes is a classic dish that brings together the zesty freshness of lemons and the hearty satisfaction of perfectly roasted chicken and potatoes. This recipe has roots in Mediterranean cuisine, particularly Greek cooking, where the combination of lemon and olive oil is a staple. The balance of flavors and the simplicity of the preparation make it a beloved meal worldwide. Whether you’re looking for a comforting family dinner or an impressive dish for guests, this oven-roasted lemon chicken thighs with potatoes recipe is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Potatoes:
- Chicken Thighs: 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- Potatoes: 1 pound of baby potatoes, halved
- Lemons: 2 large lemons, juiced and zested
- Olive Oil: 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Dried Oregano: 2 teaspoons
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
- Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup
- Fresh Rosemary or Thyme: A few sprigs for garnish
For the Marinade:
- Lemon Juice: 1/4 cup
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
Instructions
Preparing the Marinade
- Mix the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, to let the flavors meld.
Roasting the Chicken and Potatoes
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Baking Dish: In a large baking dish, combine the halved potatoes, minced garlic, and dried oregano. Drizzle with 1/4 cup of olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat the potatoes evenly.
- Arrange the Chicken and Potatoes: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on top of the potatoes in the baking dish. Pour the chicken broth into the dish and squeeze the juice from one lemon over everything. Sprinkle lemon zest on top.
- Roast in the Oven: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken skin is crispy and the meat is cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Stir the potatoes halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Broil for Crispiness (Optional): If you want extra crispy skin, switch your oven to broil for the last 5 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme before serving.
Tips and Variations
Tips for Perfect Roasted Lemon Chicken
- Marinating Time: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be. Overnight marination is ideal for the best results.
- Crispy Skin: Pat the chicken skin dry with paper towels before adding it to the baking dish for extra crispiness.
- Even Cooking: Cut the potatoes into similar-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
Variations
- Greek Lemon Chicken Thighs and Potatoes: Add a handful of kalamata olives and a sprinkle of feta cheese before serving for an authentic Greek twist.
- One Pan Lemon Chicken and Potatoes: Add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to the dish for a complete one-pan meal.
- Lemon Herb Chicken: Experiment with different herbs such as basil or parsley for a fresh flavor profile.
Substitutions
- Chicken Thighs: Use chicken breasts or a whole roasted chicken if preferred. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Potatoes: Substitute with sweet potatoes or butternut squash for a different flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
Roasted Lemon Chicken Thighs With Potatoes is a versatile and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its simplicity and depth of flavor make it a go-to recipe for both novice and experienced cooks. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet dinner at home or hosting a lively gathering, this dish will impress with its vibrant taste and beautiful presentation. Don’t forget to share your experiences and tweaks in the comments below, and if you enjoyed this recipe, explore more on easycrispyrecipes.com. Share your creation on social media, and subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes delivered straight to your inbox.