Lemon Paprika Roast Chicken Thighs Recipe

Introduction

Lemon Paprika Roast Chicken Thighs combine juicy, flavorful meat with a vibrant, smoky citrus marinade. This simple yet impressive dish is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 3 garlic cloves, crushed
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh herbs (parsley or thyme), optional for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, smoked paprika, crushed garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined to create the marinade.
2. Step 2: Place the chicken thighs in a shallow dish or zip-top bag, pour the marinade over them, and coat each piece thoroughly. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
3. Step 3: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Remove chicken from the marinade and arrange skin-side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet or roasting pan, spacing pieces evenly.
4. Step 4: Roast for 35 to 40 minutes, until the skin is golden and crisp and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Halfway through cooking, baste the chicken with pan juices.
5. Step 5: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after roasting. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with lemon wedges for an extra bright finish.

Tips & Variations

• Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
• Swap parsley for rosemary or oregano for a different herbal note.
• Use lime or orange juice instead of lemon for a fruity twist.
• For a healthier option, use skinless thighs and roast with a splash of chicken broth to keep them moist.
• Try smoked sea salt or chipotle powder to intensify the smoky flavor.

Storage

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to help maintain crisp skin. Avoid microwaving to keep the texture crisp.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but boneless, skinless breasts tend to dry out faster. Adjust roasting time and consider marinating longer to keep them juicy.

How long can I marinate the chicken?

Marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to develop, but no longer than 4 hours to prevent the lemon juice from toughening the meat.

Lemon Paprika Roast Chicken Thighs Recipe

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4.9 from 123 reviews

This Lemon Paprika Roast Chicken Thighs recipe features juicy, bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs marinated in a zesty blend of fresh lemon juice, smoked paprika, garlic, and olive oil. Roasting at a high temperature produces irresistibly crispy skin and succulent meat, enhanced by the smoky depth of paprika and the bright acidity of lemon. A simple yet flavorful dish perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

• Author: Nora
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

Marinade

• Juice of 2 fresh lemons
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 3 garlic cloves, crushed
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Garnish (optional)

• Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped
• Lemon wedges

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together freshly squeezed lemon juice, olive oil, smoked paprika, crushed garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined and fragrant.
2. Marinate the Chicken Thighs: Place the chicken thighs in a shallow dish or zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken ensuring each piece is well coated. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 4 hours, to allow flavors to penetrate.
3. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Remove chicken from the marinade and arrange skin-side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet or roasting pan, spacing the thighs evenly for proper roasting.
4. Roast to Perfection: Roast the chicken for 35 to 40 minutes or until the skin is golden brown and crisp, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Halfway through cooking, baste the chicken with pan juices to keep it juicy.
5. Garnish and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs and serve with lemon wedges to brighten the flavors before serving.

Notes

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the marinade.
• Try swapping parsley for rosemary or oregano to vary the herbal note.
• Use lime or orange juice instead of lemon for a different citrus twist.
• For a healthier version, use skinless chicken thighs and roast with a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture.
• To intensify smoky flavor, add smoked sea salt or chipotle powder in place of regular salt or smoked paprika.

Keywords: lemon chicken, roast chicken thighs, smoked paprika chicken, easy chicken recipe, crispy chicken, lemon paprika chicken