Description
Mediterranean-inspired lemon chicken thighs tantalize taste buds with zesty citrus and herbal notes. Succulent chicken emerges from the oven golden and juicy, promising a delightful meal perfect when craving something simple yet extraordinary.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins:
- 2 pounds (907 grams) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
Herbs and Spices:
- 4 teaspoons chili powder
- 2 teaspoons chili pepper flakes
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
Additional Ingredients:
- 5 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 4 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons instant chicken bouillon
Instructions
- Craft a vibrant marinade by whisking together finely chopped cilantro, olive oil, crushed garlic, fresh lemon juice, zesty lemon zest, chicken bouillon, chili powder, red pepper flakes, cumin, salt, and black pepper in a medium mixing bowl. Divide the aromatic mixture into two equal portions.
- Transfer chicken thighs into a large resealable plastic bag or spacious container, then coat thoroughly with one half of the prepared marinade. Refrigerate for a minimum of two hours or ideally overnight, gently rotating the bag periodically to ensure even flavor distribution.
- Remove chicken thighs from the marinade and discard the used liquid. Pat the meat dry with paper towels to promote optimal browning.
- Preheat a cast-iron grill pan over medium-high heat, drizzling the remaining olive oil to create a light, protective coating. Carefully arrange chicken thighs in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Sear the chicken thighs for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side, developing a golden-brown crust and reaching an internal temperature of 165ºF (74ºC). Use tongs to flip the meat gently.
- Transfer the perfectly cooked chicken thighs to a serving platter and generously drizzle with the reserved lemon-garlic-cilantro mixture. Serve immediately while hot and fragrant.
Notes
- Marinate chicken thighs in a zesty blend of cilantro, garlic, and lemon for maximum flavor infusion and tender meat.
- Divide the marinade strategically to enhance seasoning and reserve extra sauce for serving, ensuring a punchy taste experience.
- Grill chicken in a cast-iron pan to achieve golden-brown edges and seal in the vibrant Mediterranean-inspired aromatics, creating a restaurant-quality dish at home.
- Prep Time: 2 hours
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 405
- Sugar: 0.5 g
- Sodium: 530 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 24 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 36 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg