Spicy Lemon Chicken
Experience the zesty kick of Spicy Lemon Chicken, a flavor-packed dish that combines tender, juicy chicken thighs with a bold marinade bursting with fresh lemon juice, smoky paprika, and a hint of honey sweetness. Infused with red chili flakes for just the right amount of heat, this quick and easy recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. As the chicken simmers in its flavorful marinade, the sauce thickens into a glossy glaze that’s perfect for spooning over rice or roasted vegetables. Top with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a vibrant finish, and watch as this crowd-pleasing dish becomes a new family favorite.
Log this recipe in SnapCalorie
Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 pieces skinless, boneless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 pieces garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon red chili flakes
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 0.5 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoons black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and set them aside.
In a small bowl, mix together the lemon juice, lemon zest, red chili flakes, smoked paprika, ground cumin, honey, salt, and black pepper to make the marinade.
Place the chicken thighs in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over them. Ensure the chicken is well-coated in the mixture. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until it becomes fragrant, but not browned.
Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, letting any excess marinade drip off. Reserve the marinade for later.
Place the chicken in the skillet and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and cover the skillet with a lid. Let the chicken simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Remove the lid and let the sauce thicken slightly for another 2-3 minutes, spooning it over the chicken.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot with rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1306 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 78.6 g | 101% | |
| Saturated Fat | 18.0 g | 90% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 484 mg | 161% | |
| Sodium | 2743 mg | 119% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 27.6 g | 10% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.7 g | 10% | |
| Total Sugars | 18.8 g | ||
| Protein | 119.4 g | 239% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 113 mg | 9% | |
| Iron | 7.0 mg | 39% | |
| Potassium | 1349 mg | 29% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
