Lemon & Thyme Cast Iron Roasted Chicken Thighs

k engels

1 year ago

A cast iron classic, kissed with lemon and thyme.

This rustic, deeply flavorful dish is all about simple ingredients coming together for an irresistible result. The boneless, skinless chicken thighs are seared in a vintage cast iron skillet, soaking up the essence of garlic, thyme, and fresh lemon, creating a tender, juicy bite with a crisp, golden exterior.

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Lemon & Thyme Cast Iron Roasted Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
3 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (plus extra for garnish)
3 cloves garlic, minced
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 lemon
½ tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp sea salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Season the chicken – In a bowl, mix chicken thighs with olive oil, thyme, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).
Sear in a cast iron skillet – Heat butter in a vintage cast iron pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
Roast in the oven – Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for 12-15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Rest & Serve – Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh thyme sprigs and lemon wedges.

Perfect Pairings:

Roasted baby potatoes with garlic and rosemary
Sautéed greens (spinach, kale, or broccolini)
Rustic sourdough bread to soak up the juices

Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Dish

Marinate for Maximum Flavor – Let the chicken soak in the lemon-thyme goodness for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a deeper infusion.
Use a Well-Seasoned Cast Iron Pan – Cast iron locks in heat for an even, golden sear and enhances flavor over time.
Go Fresh with Thyme – Dried thyme works in a pinch, but fresh thyme leaves bloom beautifully in warm olive oil.
Sustainability Tip: Save your lemon rinds and herb stems for homemade infused oils, stocks, or compost!

Variations & Serving Ideas

For a Heartier Meal – Serve with farro, quinoa, or roasted root vegetables for an earthy, nutrient-dense pairing.
Mediterranean Twist – Add capers and olives for a briny depth, or toss in cherry tomatoes and feta before roasting.
Spice It Up – Swap smoked paprika for Aleppo pepper or cayenne to give it a subtle kick.
Wine Pairing – A crisp, mineral-driven Sauvignon Blanc or Albariño beautifully complements the dish’s citrusy, herbal notes.

This flavor-packed chicken is juicy, citrusy, and herbaceous—a true cast iron classic perfect for a cozy February meal!

Cooking with intention means choosing simple, fresh ingredients that deliver bold, effortless flavor—and this Lemon & Thyme Cast Iron Chicken does just that. Juicy boneless, skinless chicken thighs are seared to perfection in a vintage cast iron skillet, kissed with the bright zest of lemon, the earthy depth of thyme, and just a whisper of garlic and smoked paprika for warmth. The result? A rustic, wholesome dish that’s nourishing, deeply satisfying, and perfect for slow, intentional meals.

Why This Recipe?

This dish is all about celebrating simplicity—just a few fresh ingredients, thoughtfully prepared, creating a rich, flavorful meal that feels effortless yet deeply nourishing. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or a cozy dinner for two, this sustainable, herb-forward approach will have you reaching for your cast iron skillet again and again.