How to Make the Perfect Herb Roasted Chicken Thighs
American · Easy · 45 min · 4 servings
Juicy chicken thighs are seasoned with fresh herbs and garlic for a flavorful low sodium dinner. The natural flavors of rosemary, thyme, and lemon create a satisfying meal without relying on salt.
Why this recipe works
This Herb Roasted Chicken Thighs recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 45 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 290 calories with 28g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 4 pieces bone-in chicken thighs skin on
- 3 cloves fresh garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
- 1 whole lemon zested and juiced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Pat the chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy skin during roasting.
Step 2: Make the Herb Rub
Combine minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, lemon zest, lemon juice, and olive oil in a small bowl. Mix thoroughly until a paste forms.
Step 3: Apply Rub and Rest
Rub the herb mixture all over and under the skin of each chicken thigh. Let the chicken rest at room temperature for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 4: Roast the Chicken
Place chicken thighs skin-side up in a baking dish and roast for 35 minutes until the skin is golden and internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- fresh rosemary → dried rosemary using half the amount
- chicken thighs → boneless chicken breasts for lower fat content
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Skipping the drying step which leads to steamed rather than crispy skin
- Using store bought spice blends that contain hidden high sodium ingredients
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 290 calories, 28g protein, 3g carbs, 18g fat, 1g fiber.
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