Zesty Baked Chicken
Infuse your weeknight dinners with vibrant, citrusy flavors using this irresistible Zesty Baked Chicken recipe! Juicy, bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are coated in a bold marinade featuring zesty lemon and orange juice, fragrant citrus zest, honey, garlic, and a medley of spices like smoked paprika and cumin. Baked to golden perfection, the chicken boasts tender, flavorful meat and irresistibly crispy skin. Ready in under an hour, including prep time, this dish is not only quick to make but also deeply satisfying. Garnished with fresh parsley and served with lemon wedges for an extra pop of brightness, this easy baked chicken recipe pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, rice, or a crisp side salad. Perfect for weeknight family meals or casual entertaining, this recipe is the ultimate way to enjoy a healthy, mouthwatering dinner full of zesty, bold flavors.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 6 pieces chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 1 whole zest of a lemon
- 1 whole zest of an orange
- 4 cloves garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1.5 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoons red chili flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 4 pieces lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and set them aside.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, orange juice, lemon zest, orange zest, minced garlic, honey, smoked paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red chili flakes (if using).
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl with the marinade, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 10 minutes or up to 30 minutes for more flavor.
Arrange the chicken thighs skin-side up in a baking dish or on a lined baking sheet.
Pour any remaining marinade over the chicken for extra flavor.
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and crispy.
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2414 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 183.1 g | 235% | |
| Saturated Fat | 46.3 g | 232% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 729 mg | 243% | |
| Sodium | 4292 mg | 187% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 39.9 g | 15% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 7.3 g | 26% | |
| Total Sugars | 24.7 g | ||
| Protein | 165.3 g | 331% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 229 mg | 18% | |
| Iron | 12.3 mg | 68% | |
| Potassium | 2133 mg | 45% | |
*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.
