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Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs (Juicy, Easy Weeknight Dinner)
Allison Bryant

Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs

These Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs are the ultimate weeknight hero, offering a restaurant-quality meal that is high in protein and flavor. Featuring bone-in, skin-on thighs, this dish delivers a perfectly crispy, golden sear and juicy meat. Enhanced with fresh lemon, aromatic garlic, and a rich pan sauce, this keto-friendly, low-carb recipe is both stress-free and deeply satisfying for anyone seeking a nutrient-dense, savory dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • Kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup chicken or bone broth
  • 2 large lemons, juiced and zested
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 2 tablespoons fresh Italian parsley, chopped

Method
 

  1. Pat the chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy sear.
  2. Season the chicken generously on both sides with kosher salt and black pepper.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  4. Place chicken skin-side down in the skillet and sear for 8-10 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
  5. Flip the chicken and cook for another 5-8 minutes until cooked through.
  6. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
  7. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  8. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice to deglaze the pan, scraping up the browned bits.
  9. Simmer the sauce for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
  10. Stir in lemon zest, thyme, and parsley.
  11. Return chicken to the pan to coat with the sauce before serving.

Notes

Ensure the chicken is patted very dry to prevent steaming.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
For extra crispiness, finish the chicken under a broiler for 1-2 minutes after searing.