Chicken thighs in lemon sauce

Chicken Thighs in Lemon Sauce – a Simple and Delicious Recipe

If you are a lover of chicken thighs and looking for a recipe that combines fresh flavors with a perfect taste, then chicken thighs in lemon sauce are exactly what you need. This recipe is not only easy to make but also extremely tasty, perfect for a family dinner or a festive meal. Moreover, the lemon sauce adds a touch of acidity that complements the juicy meat perfectly.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 2-3 hours (or overnight, if you have time)
Baking time: 1 hour
Total: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

- 10 chicken thighs (preferably from free-range chickens)
- 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 lemons (juice and slices)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or fresh, if available)
- 3-4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth (or warm water if unavailable)
- 3-4 bay leaves
- Salt and ground pepper, to taste
- Fresh dill, for garnish

Nutritional information

This chicken thigh recipe contains quality protein, providing good nutritional value due to the chicken and garlic, which is known for its antioxidant properties. Lemon not only enhances the flavor but also brings vitamin C, essential for the immune system.

Step-by-step preparation

Step 1: Preparing the chicken thighs

Start by cleaning the chicken thighs, then wash them well under cold running water. It is important to remove any impurities to achieve a healthier dish. Once finished, let them drain in a bowl or on a paper towel.

Step 2: Marinating the thighs

In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic with the rosemary. This combination will give a fantastic flavor to the meat. Use your fingers to carefully separate the skin from the chicken thighs, creating a space where you can insert the garlic and rosemary mixture. This step is essential to infuse the meat with intense flavors!

Step 3: Preparing the sauce

In another bowl, squeeze the juice from the 3 lemons and mix it with the olive oil, herbs de Provence (or any other favorite herbs), salt, and pepper. This sauce will coat the chicken thighs and give them a fresh and delicious flavor.

Step 4: Marinating in the fridge

Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish, pour the prepared sauce over them, and cover the dish with plastic wrap. Put everything in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours, or even overnight if you have time. Marinating is an important step, as it allows the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat.

Step 5: Preparing for baking

After the marinating time, take the dish out of the fridge. Place lemon slices, bay leaves, and peppercorns among the chicken thighs. These will add extra flavor to the dish. Then, pour a cup of chicken broth over the thighs, ensuring they are well covered.

Step 6: Baking

Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the dish in the oven and let the thighs bake for about an hour. Check occasionally if you need to add more broth or water to maintain moisture. The thighs are ready when they become nicely browned and juicy.

Step 7: Serving

Remove the dish from the oven and let the thighs rest for a few minutes. Season with freshly chopped dill for an extra touch of freshness. Serve them alongside a seasonal salad and a side of roasted or mashed potatoes, which will perfectly complement the meal.

Practical tips

- Choosing the meat: Opt for chicken thighs from organic sources, if possible. The taste and texture will significantly improve.
- Marinating: Longer marinating allows flavors to penetrate better into the meat. If you have time, you can let the thighs marinate overnight.
- Variations: You can experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or oregano, to customize the recipe to your taste.
- Serving: You can also add some vegetables (carrots, onions, potatoes) to the dish to roast them together with the thighs, creating a complete meal.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
- Yes, boneless thighs will cook faster. Check the baking time and adjust it according to the thickness of the meat.

2. What side dish pairs best?
- A green salad with a light dressing or mashed potatoes are excellent options to complement this dish.

3. How can I store leftovers?
- The chicken thighs can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave, adding a bit of sauce to keep them juicy.

Conclusion

Chicken thighs in lemon sauce are an easy-to-make recipe that combines simple yet flavorful tastes, offering a comforting meal. This recipe will not only impress family and friends but will surely become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy your meal!