These grilled chicken thighs with garlic and lemon are juicy, golden, and packed with flavor. The garlic brings the savory, the lemon brings the brightness, and the grill adds that smoky, charred goodness we all love. This one’s a simple, go-to recipe that works every single time—perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or cookouts.
Why I Love This Recipe
This is one of those recipes that started as a “what do I have in the fridge” meal and quickly became one of my favorites. It’s super simple—just a few pantry staples—but it tastes like something you’d order at a nice restaurant.
Here’s why you’ll love it too:
- 🍋 Garlic + lemon = classic flavor combo
- 🔥 Grills up in under 15 minutes
- 🍗 Chicken thighs stay juicy and never dry out
- ⏱️ Quick to prep, easy to scale
- 🌿 Pairs with pretty much any side
⏰ Time: 30 minutes (including marinating)
🍽️ Serves: 4
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1½ tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Optional: chopped parsley & extra lemon wedges for serving
How to Make Grilled Chicken Thighs with Garlic and Lemon
1. Make the Marinade
In a bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken thighs in a bowl or zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the top and toss to coat. Let it marinate for 15–30 minutes.
3. Preheat the Grill
Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates or surface.
4. Grill the Chicken
Place marinated chicken thighs on the hot grill. Cook for 5–6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and lightly charred.
5. Rest and Serve
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then serve with fresh lemon wedges and a sprinkle of chopped parsley if you like.
What to Serve With It
These chicken thighs go with pretty much anything! Here are some easy ideas:
- 🥔 Roasted potatoes or mashed potatoes
- 🥗 A crisp side salad or Greek salad
- 🌽 Grilled corn or asparagus
- 🍚 Rice, couscous, or quinoa
- 🍞 Toasted bread or garlic flatbread
FAQ
Can I use chicken breasts instead?
Yes, but thighs are more forgiving and stay juicier. Just adjust the cook time if using thinner cuts.
Do I need to marinate it?
Even 15 minutes makes a difference, but if you’re short on time, you can grill it right away—just baste it with the leftover marinade.
How do I know the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer! The safe temp is 165°F. Or cut into the thickest part—juices should run clear.
Can I make it ahead?
You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours ahead. Cooked chicken also reheats well for meal prep.
Is this spicy?
Nope! But you can add a pinch of chili flakes or hot sauce to the marinade if you want a little heat.
Enjoy!
These Grilled Chicken Thighs with Garlic and Lemon are fresh, flavorful, and so easy to make. Perfect for summer dinners, meal prep, or just a quick weeknight meal. Try it once and I bet it’ll become part of your regular dinner rotation! 😊🍗🍋