| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 45 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 410 | 30g | 7g | 11g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 8g | 2g | 25g | 0.78g |
Imagine the fragrant zing of lemons and the earthy aroma of rosemary twining together. Perk up your senses and add that to some juicy chicken thighs, and you’re almost there with the delightful dish that is Lemon-Rosemary Chicken Thighs. This recipe draws on my Charleston roots but takes a brighter gastronomical route, with a nuance of Mediterranean flavors due to the use of lemons and olive oil. From the kitchen of your true Southern connoisseur, this recipe has become one of my staples, and I am thrilled to share it with you here at Your Gourmet Guru.
The Coastal Connection
Although Lemon-Rosemary Chicken Thighs are not explicitly Southern, the citrus savor connects it to the coastal influence prevalent in many of Charleston’s culinary offerings. The locals have a predilection for all things bright and zesty, and this recipe fits the bill perfectly. The recipe also occasionally calls to mind the famous Southern-Style Lemon Roasted Chicken, yet it stands on its own with the unique spin that rosemary contributes.
Wholesome and Nutritious
Beyond the wonderful flavor, Lemon-Rosemary Chicken Thighs are an excellent source of protein. They are rich in vitamins, especially when you consider the lemon. Lemons are a great source of vitamin C as well as other nutrients like dietary fiber and copper. Olive oil, another fundamental player in our recipe, is an excellent source of healthy monounsaturated fats and has numerous benefits on heart health. Not to forget the rosemary which adds more than just a charming aroma; it is also full of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
This recipe pairs exceedingly well with a light salad, perhaps with a base of tangy arugula, or with some southern classics like a helping of creamy mashed potatoes or delicate buttermilk biscuits for a hearty meal. A robust dish, flavored with the simplicity of staple Mediterranean ingredients; an embodiment of wholesome Southern cooking with an invigorating coastal twist! So try whipping up these Lemon-Rosemary Chicken Thighs for a meal that promises both comfort and a celebration of flavor. Enjoy!
What You’ll Need
- 12 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 1/4 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 lemons, divided
- 2-3 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup honey
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. As the oven heats, take a baking tray and line it with foil or baking paper for easy clean up after baking.
Step Two
Next, place your chicken thighs on the lined baking tray. Pat them dry using paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will ensure the chicken skin gets crispy when baking.
Step Three
Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken thighs, ensuring an even coat. In a small bowl, combine your salt and black pepper, then sprinkle this mixture over the chicken.
Step Four
Take two of the lemons and slice them thinly. Arrange these slices under and on top of the chicken thighs. Zest the third lemon and reserve the zest for later.
Step Five
Next, arrange the rosemary sprigs around the chicken on the tray and sprinkle the minced garlic on top for added flavor.
Step Six
Bake the chicken in your preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Step Seven
In the meantime, make the lemon-honey sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the chicken broth, honey, and lemon zest. Bring to a simmer over medium heat until reduced slightly.
Step Eight
Once the chicken is done, remove the tray from the oven. Pour the lemon-honey sauce over the chicken thighs, ensuring each one is coated.
Step Nine
Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the sauce to caramelize and the flavors to meld.
Step Ten
Remove the chicken from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Lemon-Rosemary Chicken Thighs while warm and crispy!
