Char Broil Chicken

This Broiled Lemon Chicken Thighs Recipe is made with chicken thighs, lemons, red wine vinegar, garlic, and seasoned with oregano. 

Broiled lemon chicken thighs offer a delightful burst of flavor and succulent tenderness that will leave you craving more. This tantalizing dish combines the zesty brightness of lemons with the savory richness of chicken thighs, resulting in a mouthwatering meal that is both easy to prepare and deeply satisfying.

The secret to the exquisite taste of broiled lemon chicken thighs lies in the simple yet powerful combination of ingredients. Freshly squeezed lemon juice infuses the chicken thighs with a tangy and refreshing essence, while the natural acidity helps to tenderize the meat. The addition of aromatic herbs and spices further enhances the flavor profile, creating a tantalizing aroma that will entice your senses.

If you love this recipe, you need to try my Baked Lemon Chicken and Potatoes Recipe and my Baked Paprika Chicken Thighs Recipe.

Jump to:

• What are Broiled Lemon Chicken Thighs?
• Why you will love this recipe
• Broiled Lemon Chicken Recipe Ingredients
• How to make Broiled Lemon Chicken Thighs
• What to serve with Broiled Lemon Chicken Thighs
• Substitutions
• Broiled Lemon Chicken Thighs Recipe Variations
• Equipment
• How to store Broiled Lemon Chicken Thighs
• Broiled Lemon Chicken Thighs Recipe Top tips
• Broiled Lemon Chicken Thighs Recipe
• Food safety

What are Broiled Lemon Chicken Thighs?

Broiled lemon chicken thighs are a delicious and flavorful dish made with chicken thighs that have been marinated in a tangy lemon-based marinade and then cooked under the broiler or grill until they are nicely browned and cooked through.

The broiled lemon chicken thighs are typically served hot and can be enjoyed as a main course alongside a variety of side dishes. They pair well with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. The lemon marinade adds a bright and zesty flavor to the chicken, while the broiling method gives the thighs a slightly charred and crispy exterior.

Why you will love this recipe

• Flavorful and Tangy: The combination of lemon juice, garlic, herbs, and other seasonings in the marinade infuses the chicken thighs with a delicious, tangy flavor. The citrusy notes from the lemon juice add a refreshing taste that complements the savory chicken.
• Juicy and Tender: Chicken thighs are naturally more flavorful and moist compared to other cuts of chicken. The marinade helps to further enhance the tenderness and juiciness of the meat, resulting in succulent and satisfying bites.
• Quick and Easy: Broiling chicken thighs is a relatively quick cooking method. Once the chicken has marinated, it takes only a few minutes per side under the broiler or on the grill to cook them to perfection. This makes it a convenient option for a weeknight meal or when you're short on time.

Broiled Lemon Chicken Recipe Ingredients

You'll only need a few simple ingredients to make this. The exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below. Here's an overview of what you'll need:

• Chicken Thighs
• Lemon
• Olive oil
• Red wine vinegar
• Garlic
• Oregano
• Salt and pepper

See recipe card for quantities.

How to make Broiled Lemon Chicken Thighs

What to serve with Broiled Lemon Chicken Thighs

• Roasted Vegetables: Serve the chicken thighs with a side of roasted vegetables, such as roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or potatoes. The caramelized flavors and slightly crispy texture of the vegetables provide a great contrast to the tender chicken.
• Rice or Quinoa: Accompany the chicken with steamed rice or quinoa. The grains serve as a neutral base to absorb the flavors of the chicken and can help balance out the meal.
• Salad: A fresh salad can be a refreshing addition to the meal. Consider a green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a simple vinaigrette. The light and crisp salad provide a nice contrast to the richness of the chicken.
• Couscous or Quinoa Salad: Create a hearty and nutritious side dish by making a couscous or quinoa salad. Add ingredients like diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, fresh herbs, and a lemon vinaigrette for a zesty and flavorful accompaniment. Check out my Instant Pot Quinoa with Chickpeas.

Substitutions

• Lemon:
  • Lime: Replace lemon juice with an equal amount of lime juice for a similar citrusy tang.
  • White wine vinegar: Use an equal amount of white wine vinegar to add acidity and brightness to the dish.
• Olive Oil:
  • Canola oil: Swap olive oil with canola oil, which has a neutral flavor and high smoke point suitable for broiling.
  • Grapeseed oil: Similarly, grapeseed oil works as a substitute due to its mild flavor and high smoke point.
• Red Wine Vinegar:
  • Apple cider vinegar: Replace red wine vinegar with apple cider vinegar, which provides a tangy and slightly sweet flavor.
  • White wine vinegar: Another option is to use an equal amount of white wine vinegar, which can add acidity and depth to the marinade.
• Garlic:
  • Garlic powder: Substitute minced garlic with garlic powder, using approximately ½ to 1 teaspoon per clove.
  • Onion powder: Use onion powder as an alternative, providing a milder flavor compared to fresh garlic.
• Oregano:
  • Basil: Swap oregano with dried or fresh basil, which has a slightly sweet and aromatic flavor that complements chicken well.
  • Thyme: Another option is to use dried or fresh thyme, which adds a savory and earthy taste to the dish.

Broiled Lemon Chicken Thighs Recipe Variations

• Honey-Glazed Lemon Chicken Thighs: Add a touch of sweetness to the marinade by including 2 tablespoons of honey. The honey balances the tanginess of the lemon and adds a caramelized glaze to the chicken thighs. Check out my Harissa Honey Chicken.
• Mediterranean-inspired Lemon Chicken Thighs: Enhance the flavors with Mediterranean herbs and spices. In addition to the lemon juice and olive oil, include 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, ½ teaspoon of dried thyme, and ½ teaspoon of paprika in the marinade. Serve the chicken thighs with a side of tzatziki sauce or a Greek salad.
• Spicy Lemon Chicken Thighs: For those who enjoy a kick of heat, incorporate some spice into the marinade. Add 1 teaspoon of chili flakes or ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the mixture. The spicy lemon chicken thighs can be served alongside cooling cucumber yogurt sauce or a refreshing slaw.

Equipment

To make broiled lemon chicken thighs, you'll need the following equipment:

• Oven with Broiler: A standard kitchen oven equipped with a broiler function is essential for this recipe. The broiler provides direct heat from above, allowing the chicken thighs to brown and cook quickly.
• Baking Sheet or Broiler Pan: You'll need a baking sheet or a broiler pan to place the chicken thighs on for cooking. Make sure it has raised edges to contain any drippings or marinade.
• Mixing Bowl: A mixing bowl is necessary to combine the marinade ingredients and coat the chicken thighs evenly. Choose a bowl that is large enough to hold the chicken thighs comfortably.
• Whisk or Fork: Use a whisk or fork to combine the marinade ingredients and ensure they are well mixed. This helps to emulsify the oil and distribute the flavors evenly.
• Tongs or Spatula: Tongs or a spatula are useful for flipping the chicken thighs while broiling. They help you handle the hot chicken easily and ensure even cooking on both sides.
• Meat Thermometer (optional): While not strictly necessary, having a meat thermometer can be helpful to check the internal temperature of the chicken thighs. This ensures they reach the recommended safe temperature of 165°F (74°C) for poultry.
• Aluminum Foil (optional): You may want to line the baking sheet or broiler pan with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. It helps to catch any drippings or marinade that might stick to the pan.

How to store Broiled Lemon Chicken Thighs

To store broiled lemon chicken thighs properly, follow these steps:

1. Cool the Chicken: Allow the broiled lemon chicken thighs to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This helps prevent the buildup of condensation and moisture, which can affect the texture and flavor of the chicken.
2. Separate into Portions: If you anticipate consuming the chicken thighs in multiple servings, consider dividing them into individual portions. This makes it easier to take out and reheat only the desired amount without exposing the entire batch to temperature fluctuations.
3. Refrigerate: Place the cooled broiled lemon chicken thighs in an airtight container or sealable plastic bag. Ensure the container is suitable for storing cooked foods and has a tight-fitting lid to maintain freshness. Alternatively, wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
4. Label and Date: If you won't be consuming the chicken thighs within a day, it's essential to label the storage container or bag with the date. This helps you keep track of the freshness and ensures you use them within a safe timeframe.
5. Store in the Refrigerator: Transfer the container with the broiled lemon chicken thighs to the refrigerator. The chicken can be safely stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
6. Reheat Properly: When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat the chicken thighs thoroughly. You can do this in the microwave, oven, or stovetop. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure the chicken is fully heated and safe to eat.

Broiled Lemon Chicken Thighs Recipe Top tips

• Marinating Time: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken thighs for at least 30 minutes. However, if time permits, marinating them overnight in the refrigerator will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat even more.
• Pat Dry: Before placing the chicken thighs under the broiler, make sure to pat them dry with paper towels. Excess moisture on the surface of the chicken can hinder browning and crisping during broiling.
• Adjust Broiler Rack Position: Adjust the oven rack to the appropriate position to ensure the chicken thighs are cooked evenly and achieve the desired level of browning. Generally, positioning the rack about 6 inches (15 cm) away from the broiler element is recommended.
• Monitor Closely: Broiling is a high-heat cooking method, so keep a close eye on the chicken thighs to prevent them from burning. It is best to stay nearby and check their progress periodically to avoid overcooking.
• Baste with Marinade: To intensify the flavors, consider basting the chicken thighs with the marinade during the broiling process. This helps to add moisture and enhance the tangy taste.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken thighs are cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check their internal temperature. The safe internal temperature for poultry is 165°F (74°C). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone.
• Rest Before Serving: After removing the chicken thighs from the oven, allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, resulting in a more tender and juicy texture.
• Garnish and Serve: Before serving, consider garnishing the broiled lemon chicken thighs with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil for an added pop of freshness. Additionally, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top can enhance the citrus flavor.

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Food safety

• Cook to a minimum temperature of 165 °F (74 °C)
• Do not use the same utensils on cooked food, that previously touched raw meat
• Wash hands after touching raw meat
• Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
• Never leave cooking food unattended
• Use oils with high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
• Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove

See more guidelines at USDA.gov.