Herb-Infused Chicken Thighs with Lemon Garlic Sauce

This recipe features succulent chicken thighs marinated in a fragrant blend of herbs and spices, then seared to perfection and finished with a zesty lemon garlic sauce. The balance of savory herbs and bright citrus makes this dish both comforting and refreshing, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It meets dietary requirements by being gluten-free and dairy-free while still being rich in flavor.

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a marinade.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
3. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
4. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown.
5. Flip the chicken thighs, then add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth to the pan. Bring to a simmer.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
7. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.