Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with this incredibly simple yet spectacularly delicious Five Ingredient Lemon BBQ Roasted Chicken! In just over an hour, you'll create a restaurant-quality meal that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. This foolproof recipe combines the tangy brightness of lemon, the smoky sweetness of barbecue sauce, and perfectly roasted chicken that's crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove chicken thighs from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to reach room temperature, which ensures even cooking.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top for better air circulation and crispier skin.
- Pat chicken thighs dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve crispy skin.
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together lemon juice, barbecue sauce, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
- Brush each chicken thigh generously with the marinade, ensuring complete coverage on both sides.
- Arrange chicken thighs skin-side up on the wire rack, leaving space between each piece for even heat distribution.
- Place baking sheet in preheated oven and roast for approximately 45-55 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Baste chicken with remaining marinade every 15 minutes during cooking to enhance flavor and moisture.
- Remove from oven and let chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or lemon zest if desired, and serve hot.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always let your chicken come to room temperature before cooking to ensure even roasting and prevent dry meat.
- Pat Dry for Crispy Skin: Use paper towels to thoroughly dry the chicken thighs. This crucial step helps achieve that irresistibly crispy, golden-brown skin.
- Invest in a Meat Thermometer: Don't guess about doneness! A meat thermometer ensures your chicken is perfectly cooked at 165°F (74°C), guaranteeing both safety and juiciness.
- Basting Matters: Regular basting with the marinade keeps the chicken moist and intensifies the flavor. Brush every 15 minutes during cooking.
- Resting is Crucial: Allow the chicken to rest 5-10 minutes after cooking. This lets the juices redistribute, ensuring each bite is succulent and flavorful.
- Optional Upgrade: For an extra flavor boost, consider adding fresh herbs like chopped parsley or a sprinkle of lemon zest before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: 9g
Protein: 24g
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 100mg
