Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- 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.
- 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).
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
