Print

Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe with Lemon Herb Butter Easy and Perfect

crispy oven-baked chicken thighs - featured image

This recipe delivers effortless, juicy chicken thighs with crispy skin kissed by lemon and herbs, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual get-together.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs / 700 g)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 medium lemon, zested and juiced
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme (or rosemary as alternative)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, and chopped herbs. Set aside.
  3. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  4. Rub the olive oil all over the chicken thighs, then sprinkle evenly with salt, pepper, and paprika if using.
  5. Arrange the chicken skin-side up on a baking sheet or oven-safe skillet, making sure pieces aren’t touching.
  6. Place the chicken in the oven and roast for 25 minutes.
  7. Remove the chicken and baste each thigh generously with the lemon herb butter mixture.
  8. Return to the oven and roast for an additional 10-12 minutes.
  9. Check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) or juices run clear.
  10. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Pat chicken skin dry to ensure crispiness. Baste halfway through cooking for best flavor and moisture. If skin isn’t crispy enough, broil for 1-2 minutes watching closely. Use bone-in, skin-on thighs for best texture and juiciness. Let chicken rest before serving to lock in juices.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy chicken thighs, oven-baked chicken, lemon herb butter chicken, easy chicken recipe, weeknight dinner, crispy skin chicken