Description
This Lemon Parmesan Roasted Chicken is a flavorful and zesty dish perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner. Juicy chicken thighs are marinated in a tangy lemon and garlic mixture, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and roasted to golden perfection. The fresh herbs add an aromatic touch, while the crisp skin and cheesy crust create a delightful texture contrast.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 pieces Chicken Thighs (bone-in, skin-on preferred)
Marinade
- 1/4 cup Olive Oil (or melted butter)
- 2 whole Lemons (fresh, juiced and zested)
- 3 cloves Garlic (minced, or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
- 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme (or Italian seasoning)
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Topping & Garnish
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated)
- 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (chopped)
Instructions
- Preparation: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready for roasting. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to help the skin crisp up during cooking, then season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Make the Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, lemon zest, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, and dried thyme. Mix well to blend all the flavors together.
- Marinate the Chicken: Brush the lemon-herb marinade evenly over each chicken thigh, ensuring they’re well coated on all sides for maximum flavor.
- Add Parmesan Topping: Generously sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top of each marinated chicken thigh. This will create a deliciously crispy and cheesy crust as it roasts.
- Roast the Chicken: Place the prepared chicken thighs on a baking tray or roasting pan. Roast in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Garnish: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes to retain its juices. Before serving, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
Notes
- For extra crispy skin, pat the chicken very dry before seasoning.
- You can substitute dried thyme with Italian seasoning if preferred.
- Bone-in, skin-on thighs retain moisture and add flavor, but you can use boneless skinless if desired; adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
