Zesty Garlic Lemon Chicken Thighs Recipe

Lemon Chicken Thighs are the perfect blend of tangy citrus and savory spices. This dish is incredibly flavorful, thanks to the bright lemon juice, aromatic garlic, and a mix of warming spices. It’s an easy and delicious meal that will have your family and friends asking for seconds. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner!

Ingredients You Need for Garlic Lemon Chicken Thighs:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs 🍗
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro 🌿
• 5 tablespoons olive oil, divided 🫒
• 4 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice 🍋
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest 🍋
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic 🧄
• 4 teaspoons chili powder 🌶️
• 2 teaspoons chili pepper flakes 🌶️
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin 🌿
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt 🧂
• 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper ⚫
• 2 teaspoons instant chicken bouillon 🧂

Directions:

1️⃣ Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix together the chopped cilantro, 4 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, instant chicken bouillon, chili powder, chili pepper flakes, cumin, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Once everything is combined, divide the mixture into two portions. 🥣

2️⃣ Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs in a gallon-size Ziploc bag or a large bowl. Pour in half of the marinade mixture, ensuring that the chicken is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, turning the bag occasionally to ensure even marination. After marinating, drain the chicken thighs from the marinade. ⏳

3️⃣ Cook the Chicken:
Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a cast-iron grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken thighs to the grill pan in a single layer. Cook each side for about 4-5 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). 🍳

4️⃣ Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the Garlic Lemon Chicken Thighs hot, with the reserved lemon-garlic-cilantro mixture drizzled over the top. This dish pairs perfectly with rice, a fresh salad, or your favorite vegetables. Enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite! 🍽️😋

Recipe Notes:

• Marinating Tip: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be. If you’re short on time, a quick 2-hour marination will still infuse the chicken with plenty of flavor.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve with roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or over a bed of fluffy rice for a complete meal.

Nutrition Information:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Marinating Time: 2 hours
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
• Calories: 320 Kcal per serving
• Servings: 4 servings

This Garlic Lemon Chicken Thighs recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s as simple to make as it is delicious. The fresh flavors of lemon and cilantro combined with the warmth of chili and cumin create a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just need a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress!

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