Pixicook
HomeRecipesChickenZesty Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs
recipe image

Zesty Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs

clock-icon370 minutes
author-image
Author
Pixicook editorial team

Tender slow-cooked chicken thighs infused with the bright, rich flavors of lemon and herbs.

Ingredients for Zesty Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs

units in
USchevron
serves
6 peoplechevron

Bone-in Chicken Thighs, skin removed, trimmed

0 oz

Table Salt

teaspoons

Black Pepper

teaspoons

Paprika

teaspoons

Dried Oregano

teaspoons

Lemon Zest, finely grated

teaspoons

Lemon Juice, freshly squeezed

cups

Flat Leaf Parsley, coarsely chopped

tablespoons

How to Make Zesty Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs

1. Prepare Chicken Thighs

Begin by placing the chicken thighs in your slow cooker. Drizzle the extra-virgin olive oil over the chicken, then sprinkle with the table salt, black pepper, paprika, dried oregano, and granulated garlic. Toss everything together right in the slow cooker until each piece of chicken is well coated with the spices.

2. Add Thyme and Lemon Juice

Next, nestle the thyme sprigs among the chicken thighs. Carefully pour the lemon juice around the edges of the slow cooker, taking care not to wash the spices off the top of the chicken. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 4 to 6 hours.

3. Finish and Serve

Once the chicken has cooked through and is tender, remove the thyme sprigs and discard them. Transfer the chicken thighs to a shallow serving dish. In a small bowl, stir together the chopped parsley and lemon zest, then sprinkle this mixture over the chicken. Finally, spoon some of the flavorful sauce from the slow cooker over the chicken to serve.

Variations

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken

Instead of finishing the chicken in the oven, you can grill it to add a smoky flavor.

Soy Citrus Glaze

Combine soy sauce with lemon juice and a hint of brown sugar for an Asian-inspired umami-rich glaze.

Grilled Perfection

Instead of roasting, grill the chicken thighs over medium heat to add a smoky flavor.

Balsamic Glaze

Drizzle a balsamic reduction over the cooked chicken thighs for a sweet and tangy finish.

Asian-Style Lemon Basil Chicken

Use basil as the primary herb, add a touch of soy sauce and sesame oil to the marinade, and you have a dish with an Asian twist.

Pitfalls and tips

Quality of Ingredients

Use the best quality chicken, ideally free-range or organic, along with fresh herbs and high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.

Cooking Technique

Sear the chicken skin-side down in a hot, oven-proof skillet without moving it to develop a good crust before flipping.

Chicken Preparation

Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to help the skin get crispy and consider salting and refrigerating it uncovered to dry the skin further.

Oven Finishing

Finish cooking in the oven and use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F (74°C).

Marinade

Use freshly squeezed lemon juice and finely grated zest, avoiding the white pith, for a brighter and more intense lemon flavor.

Comments (0)

Add your comment...

Explore More Chicken recipes

Explore More Collections

Broccoli Cheddar Delight Soup

Vegetarian Winter

Dashi with Cod and Clams

Mushroom Soup

Caramelized Skillet Shrimp with Optional Citrus or Chipotle Glaze

Quick Easy Shrimp Saute

Chicken Katsu with Shredded Cabbage and Scallions

Chicken Fried