Chicken Thighs With Thyme and Lemon ππ
Overview:
Chicken Thighs With Thyme and Lemon is a delightful dish that offers a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken. Bursting with fresh flavors of lemon and thyme, this recipe requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. Each serving consists of two small thighs, making it a satisfying meal for two. With a marinade time of two hours, the chicken absorbs the zesty citrus and aromatic thyme, resulting in juicy, flavorful bites. Whether grilled or broiled, this dish promises tender, succulent chicken thighs with a hint of sweetness from honey and a touch of warmth from black pepper.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 407
- Fat: 27.7g
- Saturated Fat: 7.7g
- Cholesterol: 143mg
- Sodium: 275.6mg
- Carbohydrates: 9.7g
- Fiber: 0.4g
- Sugar: 6.5g
- Protein: 29.7g
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon rind
- 1 1/2 cups fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh thyme
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 1/2 tablespoons honey
- 3 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 small chicken thighs
Instructions:
| Preparation | Time |
|---|---|
| Marinating | 2 hours |
| Cooking | 10 minutes |
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Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large zip-top plastic bag, combine fresh lemon rind, fresh lemon juice, fresh thyme, olive oil, honey, salt, and black pepper.
- Seal the bag tightly and ensure the chicken thighs are coated evenly with the marinade.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, turning occasionally to ensure all sides of the chicken are infused with flavor.
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Preheat the Grill or Broiler:
- Prepare your grill or broiler for cooking.
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Prepare the Chicken:
- After marinating, remove the chicken thighs from the bag, allowing any excess marinade to drip off.
- Discard the marinade.
- Sprinkle both sides of the chicken thighs with salt and black pepper.
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Grill or Broil the Chicken:
- If grilling, preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- If broiling, preheat the broiler and place the oven rack in the top position.
- Lightly grease the grill rack or broiler pan with cooking spray.
- Place the chicken thighs on the grill rack or broiler pan.
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Cook the Chicken:
- Grill or broil the chicken thighs for approximately 5 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165Β°F (75Β°C).
- Ensure the chicken is golden brown and juices run clear when pierced with a fork.
- Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken thighs and the heat of your grill or broiler.
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Serve Hot:
- Once cooked, remove the chicken thighs from the grill or broiler.
- Allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving to retain their juices.
- Garnish with additional fresh thyme and lemon slices if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy the succulent flavors of Chicken Thighs With Thyme and Lemon!
Tips:
- For a stronger lemon flavor, you can add extra lemon juice or zest to the marinade.
- Ensure the grill or broiler is preheated before adding the chicken to achieve a nicely seared exterior.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165Β°F (75Β°C).
- If using bone-in chicken thighs, adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are fully cooked.
- Serve with your favorite side dishes such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad for a well-balanced meal.
Conclusion:
Chicken Thighs With Thyme and Lemon is a simple yet flavorful dish that elevates the humble chicken thigh into a gourmet experience. With its zesty marinade and quick cooking time, it’s a perfect option for busy individuals or anyone looking to add a touch of freshness to their dinner table. Whether grilled outdoors on a summer evening or broiled indoors during cooler months, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the vibrant flavors of lemon and thyme with every juicy bite of tender chicken, and savor the satisfaction of a delicious homemade meal! π½οΈ
