Go Back
Lemon Paprika Roast Chicken Thighs

Lemon Paprika Roast Chicken Thighs

Juicy roasted chicken thighs with crispy golden-brown skin, marinated in bright lemon juice and smoky paprika for an easy weeknight dinner with bold flavors.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Marinating Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 385

Ingredients
  

  • 6 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs about 2.5 lbs total
  • 2 whole fresh lemons one for juice, one for zest and wedges
  • 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or thyme optional, for garnish

Equipment

  • baking sheet
  • parchment paper
  • Medium mixing bowl
  • whisk
  • Instant-read thermometer
  • Pastry brush or spoon

Method
 

  1. Pat the chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels. In a medium bowl, whisk together the juice of one lemon, olive oil, smoked paprika, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well blended.
  2. Place the dried chicken thighs in a shallow dish or large zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to 4 hours (2 to 4 hours ideal for deepest flavor).
  3. Preheat your oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the marinated thighs skin-side up with at least an inch of space between each piece.
  4. Roast for 35 to 40 minutes until the skin turns deep golden brown and crispy. At the 20-minute mark, baste the chicken with the accumulated pan juices. Check for doneness with an instant-read thermometer - it should read 165°F in the thickest part.
  5. Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest on the pan for 5 minutes. Zest the remaining lemon over the top, sprinkle with fresh herbs if using, and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

For crispier skin, pat chicken very dry before marinating. Don't marinate longer than 4 hours as lemon can break down meat texture. You should have about 2 to 3 tablespoons of pan juices for basting.
QR Code linking back to recipe