Tender, juicy chicken thighs and drumsticks roasted in a zesty lemon garlic marinade and finished with caramelized lemon slices and fresh parsley. This flavorful dish is simple yet elegant—perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This lemon garlic roasted chicken recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. The combination of citrus, garlic, and honey creates a balanced and vibrant marinade that tenderizes the chicken while adding a deliciously savory and slightly sweet profile. Roasting brings out the natural richness of the chicken, while the lemon slices caramelize into a tangy finishing touch. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both wholesome and easy to make.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 chicken thighs and 4 drumsticks (bone-in, skin-on)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 2 lemons
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, honey, paprika, chili flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken pieces in a large bowl or zip-top bag and pour the marinade over them. Let marinate for 20 minutes, or overnight for enhanced flavor.
4. Arrange chicken in a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish. Pour the remaining marinade over the top.
5. Top each piece of chicken with a lemon slice.
6. Roast for 35–40 minutes, basting occasionally with pan juices, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Marinating time: 20 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor)
Cooking time: 35–40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes (with marinating)

Variations

• Herb Twist: Add fresh rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the marinade for a more herbaceous flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Increase the chili flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicier profile.
• Citrus Blend: Mix lemon juice with orange or lime juice for a unique citrus twist.
• Boneless Option: Use boneless thighs or drumsticks, but reduce the roasting time by about 10 minutes.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, place chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes. Alternatively, reheat gently in a microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

What can I serve with lemon garlic roasted chicken?

This dish pairs well with rice, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.

Can I use chicken breasts instead?

Yes, but adjust cooking time accordingly. Chicken breasts tend to dry out faster, so check doneness earlier.

Can I grill the chicken instead of roasting?

Yes, grill over medium heat for 6–7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Do I need to marinate the chicken overnight?

No, but marinating overnight will enhance the flavor. A 20-minute marinate will still yield a delicious result.

Is it okay to use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is preferred for the best flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.

Can I freeze the marinated chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken in its marinade for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken ahead and roast it just before serving. Leftovers reheat well too.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

What herbs go well with this dish?

Parsley, thyme, rosemary, and oregano all pair well with lemon and garlic flavors.

Can I make this dish less sweet?

Yes, reduce or omit the honey or maple syrup to make it less sweet without compromising flavor.

Conclusion

Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken Thighs & Drumsticks is a simple yet sophisticated recipe that delivers bright, bold flavor with minimal prep. Whether you’re hosting guests or preparing a weeknight meal, this dish offers versatility, ease, and reliable deliciousness every time. Serve it alongside your favorite sides and enjoy a satisfying meal that’s sure to impress.

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