Unveiled: the secret to perfectly crispy lemon chicken thighs

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of our exquisite lemon chicken recipe thighs, where succulent chicken thighs are enveloped in a vibrant marinade of zesty lemons, aromatic herbs, and a hint of garlic. This mouthwatering dish is perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to special gatherings.

Ingredients

For the Marinade:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Coating:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

Step 2: Create the Coating

In a separate bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.

Step 4: Pan-Fry the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a thin layer of olive oil and carefully place the chicken thighs in the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the cooked chicken thighs to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges and chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

Tips for a Perfect Lemon Chicken

• Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the chicken; it should be cooked through but still juicy.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the pan after cooking to enhance the citrusy flavor.
• Serve with roasted vegetables or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Variations

• Lemon Garlic Chicken: Double the amount of garlic in the marinade for an extra garlicky kick.
• Honey Lemon Chicken: Add a tablespoon of honey to the marinade for a sweet and tangy flavor.
• Crispy Lemon Chicken: Dip the chicken thighs in buttermilk before coating them in the flour mixture. This will create an extra crispy exterior.

Benefits of Lemon Chicken

• Rich in protein and essential vitamins and minerals
• Low in calories and fat
• Promotes cardiovascular health
• Boosts the immune system
• Aids in digestion

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Q: How long can I marinate the chicken thighs?
A: You can marinate them for as little as 30 minutes or up to overnight for a more flavorful result.

Q: Can I use boneless, skin-on chicken thighs?
A: Yes, but you will need to remove the skin before marinating.

Q: What sides go well with lemon chicken thighs?
A: Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple green salad are all excellent choices.