Zesty Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs are a perfect combination of vibrant flavors and tender, juicy chicken. This dish has become a personal favorite of mine, especially when I'm craving something flavorful yet easy to prepare. The tangy lemon and aromatic herbs give the chicken a refreshing kick, while the crispy skin adds a satisfying texture. What makes this recipe even better is that it's keto-friendly, so it fits perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle. Whether it's for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, Zesty Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs never disappoint.
This dish is one of those meals I turn to when I want something that’s both healthy and bursting with flavor. I love making it on weekends when I have time to relax and savor the cooking process. Plus, it’s so versatile, you can serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad. If you're someone who loves fresh herbs and citrusy zing, then this is the recipe for you!
Why You’ll Love Zesty Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs
- Keto-friendly: Packed with healthy fats and no carbs, this recipe fits seamlessly into a ketogenic diet.
- Bursting with flavor: The zesty lemon combined with fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme creates an irresistible, refreshing taste.
- Easy to prepare: With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a flavorful meal in no time.
- Versatile: Serve it with your favorite keto sides like roasted cauliflower, sautéed spinach, or a crisp avocado salad.
- Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special gathering, these chicken thighs are sure to impress.
- Crispy skin: You’ll love the texture of the chicken’s skin, perfectly crisped while keeping the meat juicy.
A delicious and keto-friendly twist on a classic chicken dish, Zesty Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs are juicy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Infused with fresh lemon, garlic, and aromatic herbs, this recipe brings a burst of freshness and tang to your meal. It’s the perfect balance of citrus, savory herbs, and crispy skin, making it a crowd-pleaser on any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty: Easy
- Cuisine: Keto, Mediterranean
Ingredients List
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat will help get that crispy skin on the chicken thighs.
- Prepare the chicken thighs: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure the skin gets crispy. Place them on a baking sheet or a cast-iron skillet.
- Make the marinade: In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine.
- Marinate the chicken: Rub the lemon herb marinade all over the chicken thighs, making sure to coat the skin evenly. Let it marinate for about 5 minutes while the oven heats up.
- Cook the chicken: Place the chicken thighs in the preheated oven and roast for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy and golden brown.
- Rest and serve: Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
Storage Options
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken thighs for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven for about 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
Cooking Times & Servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 4 chicken thighs, perfect for 2-4 people
Nutrition Information (per serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Net Carbs: 2g
I hope you enjoy making and tasting these Zesty Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs as much as I do. They are packed with fresh flavors and are the perfect addition to your keto meal rotation. If you give this recipe a try, please leave a review below, share your results on social media, and don’t forget to tag me so I can see how your dish turned out! Let’s spread the love for flavorful, keto-friendly meals!