Lemon Paprika Roast Chicken Thighs Recipe

Introduction

This Lemon Paprika Roast Chicken Thighs recipe delivers juicy, flavorful chicken with crispy skin and a bright citrus kick. It’s a simple, satisfying dish perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a comforting meal everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure even cooking.
2. Step 2: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to help the skin crisp up during roasting.
3. Step 3: In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
4. Step 4: Rub the seasoning mixture evenly all over the chicken thighs, coating them well.
5. Step 5: Arrange the chicken thighs skin-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
6. Step 6: Roast in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin turns crispy and golden brown.
7. Step 7: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
8. Step 8: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for an added burst of color and freshness.

Tips & Variations

• Use bone-in, skin-on thighs for the best flavor and crispy texture. Boneless chicken may dry out faster.
• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• If fresh lemon isn’t available, substitute with 1 tablespoon bottled lemon juice and 1 teaspoon lemon zest.
• Serve with roasted vegetables or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Storage

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through to maintain crisp skin, or microwave covered for 1-2 minutes for convenience.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken breasts or drumsticks, but cook times may vary. Adjust roasting time to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The safest way is to use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh. It should read 165°F (75°C) when fully cooked.

Lemon Paprika Roast Chicken Thighs Recipe

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This Lemon Paprika Roast Chicken Thighs recipe features tender, juicy chicken thighs seasoned with a zesty lemon and smoky paprika blend, roasted to crispy perfection in the oven. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal.

• Author: lina
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
• Total Time: 55-60 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

Seasoning

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon

Garnish

• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure even cooking and crispy skin.
2. Prepare Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove moisture, which helps achieve crispy skin.
3. Mix Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, lemon zest, and lemon juice until well mixed.
4. Coat Chicken: Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken thighs, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated for maximum flavor.
5. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
6. Roast Chicken: Roast in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy and golden brown.
7. Rest: Remove the chicken from the oven and allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes to let the juices redistribute, ensuring moist and flavorful meat.
8. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving to add a fresh pop of color and flavor.

Notes

• Ensure the chicken is patted dry to achieve crispy skin during roasting.
• Use a meat thermometer to check doneness; chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) internally.
• For an extra lemony flavor, add more lemon juice or zest according to your taste.
• Letting the chicken rest before serving keeps it juicy and tender.
• Optional fresh parsley garnish adds color and a mild herbal note.

Keywords: Lemon Paprika Roast Chicken Thighs, Oven Baked Chicken, Crispy Chicken Thighs, Easy Chicken Dinner, Lemon Chicken Recipe