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Grilled Lemon Chicken Thighs Recipe

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4.4 from 97 reviews

This Grilled Lemon Chicken Thighs recipe offers juicy, flavorful chicken marinated with a blend of lemon, herbs, and spices, then perfectly grilled until tender with crispy skin. The optional fresh lemon herb sauce adds a bright and savory finish, making it a perfect dish for outdoor gatherings or easy weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

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Chicken Marinade and Seasoning

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2½ to 3 pounds total), skin trimmed if necessary

Lemon Herb Sauce (Optional)

  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 small garlic clove
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley leaves
  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil leaves
  • ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Lemon wedges, for serving
  • Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Grill: Preheat an outdoor grill to medium-high heat (400°F to 425°F / 204°C to 218°C). Clean the grill grates thoroughly, then lightly oil them by wiping with a paper towel dipped in a high-heat cooking oil using long-handled tongs to prevent sticking.
  2. Season the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, kosher salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika if using. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and toss them in the marinade until evenly coated.
  3. Grill the First Side: Arrange the chicken thighs skin-side down over direct heat on the grill, leaving space between pieces. Grill without moving for 6 to 8 minutes until the skin is well browned and releases easily from the grates. If flare-ups occur, move the chicken to a cooler area until flames subside.
  4. Grill the Second Side: Flip the chicken and continue cooking for 8 to 12 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F (74°C). If the chicken is browning too fast before fully cooked, move to indirect heat until done. Transfer the chicken to a serving platter and let rest for 5 minutes.
  5. Make the Optional Lemon Herb Sauce: While the chicken cooks, combine extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, fresh parsley, fresh basil, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, and black pepper in a small food processor or blender. Pulse until herbs are finely chopped and sauce is well combined but slightly textured. Set aside.
  6. Finish and Serve: Drizzle the lemon herb sauce over the grilled chicken or serve on the side as a dipping sauce. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
  7. Alternative Method – Grill Pan: Heat a large grill pan over medium-high heat and lightly oil it. Place chicken thighs skin-side down without crowding. Cook for 7 to 9 minutes until skin browns and releases. Flip and cook for an additional 8 to 12 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Reduce heat if browning too quickly. Rest chicken for 5 minutes before serving with optional lemon herb sauce, parsley garnish, and lemon wedges.

Notes

  • Note 1: Skin can be trimmed if excessively fatty, but keeping skin on helps maintain juiciness and creates crispy texture when grilled.
  • Note 2: Patting chicken dry before marinating ensures better browning and crisp skin.
  • Note 3: The lemon herb sauce is optional but adds brightness and herbaceous flavor that complements the grilled chicken perfectly.
  • Use a food thermometer to ensure chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  • For best results, allow the chicken to rest after grilling to redistribute juices and enhance tenderness.

Keywords: Grilled chicken thighs, lemon chicken, grilled chicken recipe, lemon herb chicken, outdoor grilling recipe, summer chicken recipe

Find it online: https://lucabites.com/grilled-lemon-chicken-thighs-recipe/