Discover the tantalizing flavors of France right in your kitchen with our Lemon Herbes de Provence Baked Chicken! This dish is not only a feast for the senses but also a breeze to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Imagine succulent chicken thighs infused with zesty lemon and aromatic herbs, all baked to crispy perfection. With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can impress your family and friends with a gourmet meal that transports them to the sunny landscapes of Provence. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 2 teaspoons Herbes de Provence
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry using paper towels. This helps achieve crispy skin and allows seasonings to adhere better to the meat.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, fresh lemon juice, Herbes de Provence, salt, and black pepper to create a marinade. Whisk ingredients until well combined.
- Place chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side up. Brush each chicken thigh generously with the prepared herb-lemon marinade, ensuring even coverage.
- Sprinkle additional Herbes de Provence and freshly ground black pepper over the chicken thighs for extra flavor intensity.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken's internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from oven and let the chicken rest for 5-7 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh lemon wedges and chopped parsley before serving. Can be paired with roasted vegetables or a light salad.
Tips
- Pat Dry for Crispiness: Always pat your chicken thighs dry with paper towels before marinating. This simple step helps achieve that coveted crispy skin by removing excess moisture.
- Marinade Magic: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15-30 minutes if you have time. This enhances the flavor and tenderness of the meat, making each bite even more delicious.
- Oven Temperature: Preheating your oven to 425°F (218°C) is crucial for getting that golden-brown crust. Don’t skip this step!
- Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This guarantees perfectly cooked, juicy chicken every time.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the chicken rest for 5-7 minutes after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in moist and tender meat.
- Serve with Style: For an extra touch, garnish with fresh lemon wedges and chopped parsley. Pair it with roasted vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal that looks as good as it tastes!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 270kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 24g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 100mg
