Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs with Lemon Herb Butter
Chicken thighs are a favorite for many home cooks. They stay juicy and full of flavor during baking. This recipe for crispy baked chicken thighs with lemon herb butter brings a fresh twist. The skin gets crisp in the oven, while the butter adds a bright, herby taste. Lemon and herbs like thyme and parsley pair well with the rich chicken. It’s a simple dish that works for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Why Choose Baked Chicken Thighs?
Baked chicken thighs offer several benefits over other cooking methods. They are easy to prepare with minimal cleanup. The oven handles the crisping, so you avoid the mess of stovetop frying. Chicken thighs have more fat than breasts, which keeps them moist even at high temperatures.
This recipe highlights bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for the best texture. The skin protects the meat and turns golden brown. Lemon herb butter melts over the top, infusing every bite with citrus notes and fresh herbs. It’s a healthy option too, with lean protein and natural flavors from garlic, lemon zest, and fresh parsley.
Ingredients for Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs
Gather these items to make four servings of this lemon herb chicken recipe. The list includes fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
For the Chicken Thighs
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 pounds total)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Lemon Herb Butter
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
These ingredients create a balance of tangy lemon, aromatic herbs, and rich butter. Use fresh herbs if possible for brighter taste. The chicken thighs provide the base, while the butter adds a glossy finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these clear steps to prepare crispy baked chicken thighs with lemon herb butter. Each part breaks down the process for easy cooking.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Start by heating your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. This high temperature helps crisp the chicken skin. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack on the sheet if you have one. It allows air to circulate and promotes even browning.
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Moisture on the skin can prevent crispiness. Rub each thigh with olive oil, then season both sides with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Let them sit at room temperature for 15 minutes while you make the butter.
Step 2: Make the Lemon Herb Butter
In a small bowl, combine the softened butter with lemon juice and zest. Add the minced garlic, chopped thyme, parsley, and salt. Mix everything well using a fork until smooth. The butter should have a spreadable consistency with visible bits of herbs and lemon peel.
Taste a small amount and adjust seasoning if needed. This compound butter is the key to the dish’s fresh flavor. Set it aside at room temperature so it stays soft for easy application later.
Step 3: Arrange and Season the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet or rack. Space them out so they do not touch. This ensures the skin crisps evenly without steaming.
Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the lemon herb butter onto each thigh. Gently spread it over the skin using the back of the spoon. Let some butter drip down the sides for extra flavor. Reserve any extra butter to baste the chicken midway through baking.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken Thighs
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit in the thickest part, away from the bone.
After 20 minutes, open the oven and baste the thighs with the remaining lemon herb butter. This step keeps the meat juicy and enhances the herb infusion. The skin should turn golden and crisp by the end.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the chicken thighs rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to settle, making the meat tender.
Transfer the crispy baked chicken thighs to a serving plate. Spoon any pan juices over the top for added moisture. Garnish with extra fresh parsley or lemon slices if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these baked chicken thighs with simple sides to round out the meal. Roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes soak up the lemon herb butter nicely. Add steamed broccoli or green beans for a pop of color and nutrition.
For a low-carb option, serve with a large salad dressed in olive oil and lemon. Rice pilaf works well too, absorbing the flavorful juices. This recipe yields juicy chicken that’s perfect for four people, but you can scale it up for larger groups.
Leftovers store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit to keep the skin crisp. Use them in salads, wraps, or sandwiches for quick lunches.
Tips for Perfect Crispy Baked Chicken
To get the best results, use room-temperature chicken thighs before seasoning. Dry skin leads to better browning. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as it can cause steaming instead of crisping.
If your oven runs hot, check the chicken at 30 minutes. The lemon herb butter can burn if baked too long, so watch the edges. For extra crispiness, broil for the last 2 minutes, but keep a close eye on it.
This method works with other herbs like rosemary or oregano. Experiment with orange zest instead of lemon for a different citrus note. Always use a thermometer to ensure safe cooking temperatures.
Nutrition Information
One serving of these crispy baked chicken thighs provides about 350 calories. It includes 25 grams of protein, 28 grams of fat, and 2 grams of carbohydrates. The lemon and herbs add vitamin C and antioxidants without extra calories.
This dish fits into a balanced diet, offering healthy fats from the skin and butter. Remove the skin for a lower-fat version, though it reduces crispiness. Pair with veggies to boost fiber and nutrients.
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe?
Yes, boneless thighs work, but they cook faster, about 25 to 30 minutes. The skin may not get as crispy without the bone. Season and butter them the same way for good flavor.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
Dried herbs are a fine substitute. Use 1 teaspoon each of dried thyme and parsley. Reduce the amount since dried versions are more concentrated. Fresh is best for the lemon herb butter’s aroma.
How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
Replace the butter with a plant-based alternative like vegan butter or olive oil mixed with lemon juice. The flavor will still be bright, though the texture might be slightly less rich.
Is this crispy baked chicken gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Double-check any spice blends for additives. It’s safe for those avoiding gluten.
Can I prepare the lemon herb butter ahead of time?
Absolutely. Make the butter up to two days in advance and store it in the fridge. Soften it before using. You can also freeze portions for longer storage.
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