Lemon Paprika Roast Chicken Thighs Recipe
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.
- 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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
