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Lemon Dill Chicken Thighs

Lemon Dill Chicken Thighs

Lemon Dill Chicken Thighs are a quick and flavorful dish that combines juicy, tender chicken with bright lemon zest and fresh dill. Perfect for a fuss-free weeknight meal, this recipe highlights the natural richness of bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs while offering a light and vibrant herb and citrus profile. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s versatile, easy to prepare in one pan, and pairs well with a variety of sides.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

Marinade

  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for cooking
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped fresh dill, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined to create a bright, fragrant marinade.
  2. Marinate the Chicken Thighs: Place chicken thighs in a shallow dish or zip-top bag and pour the marinade over them, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Let marinate for at least 20 minutes or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
  3. Heat the Pan: Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet to start crisping the skin.
  4. Cook the Chicken: Cook without moving the thighs for 5-7 minutes to develop a crispy golden crust. Flip and continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and juices run clear.
  5. Rest and Garnish: Remove chicken from the pan and let rest for a few minutes to lock in juices. Before serving, sprinkle with extra fresh dill and a squeeze of lemon juice for added brightness.

Notes

  • Pat dry the chicken skin before marinating to achieve a crispier crust.
  • Use fresh dill for the best flavor as it imparts a bright, fragrant note.
  • Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking and crisp skin.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  • Allow the chicken to rest after cooking to retain its juices and tenderness.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon chicken, dill chicken, chicken thighs recipe, quick chicken dinner, one-pan chicken, citrus herb chicken