Description
These Garlic Lemon Chicken Thighs are juicy, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned with fresh garlic, lemon zest, and spices. Quick to prep and easy to cook, they’re ideal for busy weeknights or a delicious weekend dinner.
Ingredients
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
Instructions
In a medium bowl, combine cilantro, 4 tablespoons olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, chicken bouillon, chili powder, chili pepper flakes, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Divide the marinade in half. Place the chicken thighs and half the marinade in a Ziplock bag or large bowl. Marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a cast-iron grill pan over medium-high heat.
Add chicken in a single layer and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165ºF (74ºC).
Serve immediately with reserved marinade spooned on top or on the side. Garnish with extra cilantro, if desired.
Notes
You can reduce chili flakes for a milder version.
This chicken is also excellent for salads, tacos, or grain bowls.
No grill pan? Use a regular skillet or bake at 400°F for 25–30 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes + 2 hours marinating
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilling or Pan-Searing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 340 kcal
- Sugar: 0.6 g
- Sodium: 830 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 0.8 g
- Protein: 29 g
- Cholesterol: 145 mg