Fresh rosemary chicken thighs are a savory and aromatic dish that combines the earthy, piney flavor of fresh rosemary with the rich taste of succulent chicken thighs. This easy recipe involves marinating the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and fresh rosemary, then roasting them to perfection, creating a crispy skin and juicy interior. The rosemary infuses the chicken with a delightful herbal aroma and flavor, making this dish ideal for both casual dinners and special occasions. Serve these chicken thighs with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a side of rice for a complete and comforting meal that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp fresh rosemary leaves, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional, for color)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish, optional)
- Lemon wedges (for serving, optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade:
- In a small bowl, combine the chopped fresh rosemary, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using). Mix well to create a marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the rosemary marinade over the chicken, ensuring each thigh is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more intense flavor.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet or roasting pan with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Roast the Chicken:
- Arrange the marinated chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side up. Make sure there is some space between each thigh to allow for even cooking.
- Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If you prefer extra crispy skin, you can broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of roasting, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
- Serve:
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs and serve with lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
- Pair these rosemary chicken thighs with your favorite sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.
Fresh rosemary chicken thighs are a delicious, aromatic dish that’s both easy to prepare and full of flavor. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe brings a touch of elegance to your meal with minimal effort.
