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Easy Crispy Lemon Chicken Thighs Recipe with Roasted Green Beans

crispy lemon chicken thighs - featured image

A straightforward and delicious recipe featuring crispy lemon chicken thighs paired with perfectly roasted green beans, ideal for a quick and satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (around 1.5 lbs / 700g)
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (or 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika recommended)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 12 oz (340g) fresh green beans, trimmed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
  2. Mix lemon zest, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
  3. Rub the seasoning evenly over the chicken thighs, including under the skin.
  4. Let the chicken rest at room temperature for 10-15 minutes.
  5. Toss trimmed green beans with olive oil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using; set aside.
  6. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and place a cast iron skillet inside to heat for about 5 minutes.
  7. Remove the hot skillet from the oven and place on stovetop over medium-high heat.
  8. Lay chicken thighs skin-side down in the pan and sear for 5-7 minutes without moving until skin is deep golden and crispy.
  9. Flip chicken and cook the other side for 2 minutes.
  10. Pour fresh lemon juice over the chicken thighs and scatter green beans around the pan.
  11. Transfer skillet to the oven and roast for 15-20 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and green beans are tender with slight char.
  12. Remove skillet and let chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  13. Serve chicken thighs with roasted green beans, spooning pan juices over the top.

Notes

Pat chicken dry for crispy skin. Preheat skillet before searing for best results. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F. Roast green beans alongside chicken to absorb flavors or separately if pan is crowded. Reheat leftovers in oven to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon chicken thighs, crispy chicken, roasted green beans, easy dinner, weeknight meal, gluten-free, healthy chicken recipe