Lemon Paprika Roast Chicken Thighs for a Zesty Weeknight Feast

Lemon Paprika Roast Chicken Thighs offer a gourmet touch to weeknight meals with juicy chicken and crispy skin.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 40

Resting Time 10

Total Time 1

Servings: 4 thighs

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 pieces Chicken Thighs Bone-in, skin-on thighs are preferred for juicy, flavorful meat.
1 teaspoon Salt Essential for seasoning and enhancing the chicken's natural flavors.
1 teaspoon Black Pepper Freshly ground for the best spice and aroma in every bite.

For the Marinade

2 tablespoons Paprika Adds a wonderful smoky flavor; choose either sweet or smoked based on your preference.
3 tablespoons Olive Oil Keeps the chicken moist and helps achieve that golden-brown crispiness.
4 cloves Garlic Fresh minced garlic delivers the most aromatic flavor, elevating the dish beautifully.
1 tablespoon Lemon Zest Brightens the dish with refreshing citrus; opt for fresh zest for a punchy taste.
2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Provides acidity that balances the richness of the chicken; adjust to your liking.
2 sprigs Fresh Rosemary Infuses earthy aromas; dried rosemary (1 teaspoon) works as a substitute.
2 sprigs Fresh Thyme Complements the dish with herbal notes; use dried thyme (1 teaspoon) if fresh isn't available.

For Finishing Touches

1 slice Lemon Slices Optional, but they add visual appeal and an extra burst of citrusy flavor when served.

Equipment

Oven
Baking dish
Mixing Bowl
whisk

Method

Step‑by‑Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare your baking dish.
In a large mixing bowl, combine paprika, salt, black pepper, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, rosemary, and thyme. Whisk until well blended.
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and arrange them in the bowl, or a separate bowl for marinating.
Thoroughly coat each chicken thigh in the marinade and allow to marinate for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours.
Arrange the chicken thighs skin-side up in your prepared baking dish, leaving space between each piece.
Place lemon slices on top of the chicken thighs for added flavor and visual appeal.
Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven and roast for 35 to 45 minutes until the skin is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1thighCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 28gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 18gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 350mgVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 1mgIron: 6mg

Notes

Ensure the chicken skin is very dry before applying the marinade for maximum crispness. Discard any leftover marinade that has touched raw chicken for food safety.

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