Our Whole30 Lemon Rosemary Chicken Thighs are a lovely main dish that can be cooked in the oven, on the grill, or in the air fryer. This recipe uses 5 simple ingredients for the marinade, including our Homemade Lemon Pepper Seasoning. However, you can use any compatible lemon pepper seasoning that works for you.
Thanks to simple, whole-food ingredients, this easy recipe is not only Whole30 but gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free, egg-free, and soy-free. Plus, the ingredients are ones you can find at most grocery stores. That keeps this recipe accessible and budget-friendly.
The chicken thighs are seasoned by marinating in oil, fresh rosemary, lemon pepper seasoning, and lemon juice. We used thighs, but you can also use an equal amount of chicken breast if preferred. You can marinate them for 30 minutes or up to overnight for the most flavor. Plus, we include instructions for three ways to cook them to juicy perfection. The fresh flavors of the lemon, pepper and rosemary make for a delicious flavor profile you will enjoy again and again.
These easy chicken thighs are great for a busy weeknight dinner or make ahead for meal prep. Add even more flavor with one of our delicious side dishes. Here are some sides we love to make them a meal:
- Italian Chopped Salad (sans meat)
- Loaded Baked Potato Casserole
- Ranch Green Bean Casserole
- Whole30 House Ranch Rainbow Salad
Whole30 Lemon Rosemary Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup olive or avocado oil plus additional if grilling
- 4 sprigs fresh rosemary leaves only
- 2 tbsp lemon pepper seasoning
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
Instructions
- COMBINE all ingredients except the chicken thighs in a small bowl. Whisk until well combined.
- POUR marinade over chicken thighs in a large bowl or dish. Cover and marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes, up to overnight.
- AIR FRYER – Lay thighs in a single layer as much as possible. Air fry at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken. Flip halfway through. Chicken is done when the inside is no longer pink and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- OVEN – Preheat the oven to 400°F and grease a 9×13 baking dish lightly with oil. Add marinated chicken in a single layer. Cook uncovered for 35-40 minutes. Chicken is done when the inside is no longer pink and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- GRILL – Preheat the grill to medium heat. Brush the grill with oil to prevent chicken from sticking. Grill for 4-5 minutes on each side. Chicken is done when the inside is no longer pink and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove from the grill and cover with foil, letting chicken rest for a few minutes before eating, to allow the juices to redistribute back into the meat.
- FREEZE any leftover cooked chicken in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
