By Lori Walker, MS, RD | Published on October 5, 2023 | Last Updated on November 9, 2023
Indulge in the zestful delight of Costco’s Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs. Succulent chicken thighs, marinated to perfection with a blend of zesty lemon and aromatic herbs, these are not just your ordinary poultry dish. Handpicked from the finest flocks, each piece promises a tender and juicy bite that will tantalize your taste buds.
Whether you’re planning a family dinner or looking for a quick yet wholesome meal, these Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs from Costco are sure to satiate your craving for a flavorful feast. Dive into this culinary treat that combines the tanginess of lemon, the warmth of herbs, and the richness of chicken, all in one bite.
What is Costco lemon herb chicken thigh?
Costco Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs are chicken thighs that have been marinated with a blend of lemon and herbs. This flavorful poultry dish is sure to tantalize your taste buds! Handpicked from the finest flocks, each piece promises a tender and juicy bite.
The zesty marinade combines the tanginess of lemon, the warmth of herbs, and the richness of chicken in one delicious bite. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or need a quick yet wholesome meal, these Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs from Costco are sure to hit the spot.
Why You’ll Love this Costco Lemon Herb Chicken Thigh?
The Costco Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs combine the flavor of lemon, aromatic herbs, and succulent chicken thighs marinated to perfection. The tender and juicy texture provides a unique culinary experience that will make your taste buds dance with joy.
Plus, these are not just ordinary poultry dishes! Handpicked from the finest flocks, each piece promises a tender and juicy bite. Perfect for a family dinner or a quick yet wholesome meal, this lemon herb chicken thigh is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
You’ll also like the following Dinner recipes!
The Ingredients
Chicken Thighs: Chicken thighs are often favored for their flavor and tenderness. They have a higher fat content than other cuts, which makes them more flavorful and less likely to dry out during cooking. In this recipe, they serve as the main protein and the carrier of all the other flavors.
Garlic Paste or Minced Garlic: Garlic is a staple in many cuisines because of its unique flavor profile. It imparts a pungent and spicy taste that mellows and sweetens considerably with cooking. In this recipe, it adds a depth of flavor that complements the other ingredients well.
Kosher Salt: Kosher salt is often used in cooking because of its pure, clean flavor and the fact that its large crystals are easy to pinch and sprinkle over food. It not only enhances the overall taste of the dish but also helps to balance the flavors of the other ingredients.
Pepper and Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Black pepper adds a hint of heat and a unique aroma to dishes, while crushed red pepper flakes provide a fiery kick to enhance the dish’s spiciness. Both of these seasonings contribute to the complexity of the dish’s flavor.
Zesty Lemon Juice: Lemon juice adds a bright, acidic note to dishes, which can help to balance rich or heavy flavors. In this case, it pairs well with the chicken and herbs, helping to highlight their natural flavors and cut through any potential greasiness.
Olive Oil: Olive oil is a healthy fat that contributes to the richness of the dish. It also helps to keep the chicken moist during cooking and aids in the browning process. Moreover, its subtle flavor can complement the other ingredients in the recipe.
Mix of Thyme, Basil, Rosemary, and Chives: These herbs all have distinctive flavors that can greatly enhance the taste of the chicken. Thyme has a subtle, dry aroma and a slightly minty flavor; basil offers a warm, peppery flavor; rosemary provides a pine-like fragrance and taste; and chives lend a delicate onion flavor. Together, they create a complex layer of taste that makes the dish more flavorful and interesting.
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheet
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). To ensure easy cleanup, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. Lightly grease the foil’s surface with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil.
Step 2: Season the Chicken Thighs
Lay the chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet. Season them generously with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes for a kick of heat, and either garlic paste or minced garlic for savory depth. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken thighs.
Step 3: Add Olive Oil and Herbs
Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the seasoned chicken thighs. Sprinkle your choice of herbs on top. It could be herbs like rosemary, thyme, or your favorite blend. Now, using your hands, thoroughly rub all these flavorful ingredients into the chicken thighs, ensuring each piece is coated evenly.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Slide the baking sheet with the seasoned chicken thighs into the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures that the chicken is cooked through and safe to eat.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the chicken thighs are done baking, remove them from the oven. Serve them while they’re still warm, and savor the delicious flavors you’ve infused into this simple yet satisfying dish.
Notes
- For a more intense flavor, you can marinate the chicken in the lemon herb mix overnight before baking.
- Feel free to use fresh herbs instead of dried ones if desired.
- You may substitute boneless skinless chicken breasts for thighs if desired. Increase cooking time by a few minutes if necessary.
- To keep this dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free cooking spray or olive oil instead of regular cooking spray.
- For added crunch, you can top the chicken thighs with crumbled bacon before baking.
Nutrition Information
How to store Costco lemon herb chicken thighs?
Costco Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving. Leftovers can also be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, defrost the chicken thighs overnight in the refrigerator and then heat them on a baking sheet as directed above.
Variations
- For a spicy kick, add some cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the marinade.
- To add a bit of sweetness, drizzle honey over the chicken before baking.
- For an extra zesty flavor, replace the lemon juice with lime juice.
- Add diced onions for more texture and flavor.
- To make this dish even heartier, serve it with roasted vegetables or a side of mashed potatoes.
- For a vegetarian alternative, try using portobello mushrooms in place of the chicken. Marinate and bake them as directed above.
- To add some crunch, sprinkle crushed tortilla chips or croutons over the chicken before baking.
- For a smoky flavor, add smoked paprika to the marinade for an extra depth of flavor.
- Swap out the herbs for your favorite barbeque seasoning blend.
- For a sweeter version, replace the pepper with ground cinnamon and nutmeg.
- Top the chicken with some grated Parmesan cheese before baking for extra cheesiness.
Costco Lemon Herb Chicken Thigh Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice providing a bright and tangy citrus note that adds a refreshing element to the dish.
- salt pepper, crushed red pepper flakes (to taste), allowing you to season the chicken thighs to perfection, bringing a balance of savory, spicy, and peppery flavors that elevate the overall taste.
- 1/2 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil adding a smooth and fruity essence that helps seal in the juices and promotes a delicious caramelization on the chicken.
- 1/2 tablespoon of minced garlic bringing a pungent and aromatic element that complements the other flavors and adds depth to the dish.
- 2 to 2.5 chicken thighs offering juicy and tender meat with a rich flavor that is perfect for grilling or roasting.
- 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh herbs such as thyme, basil, rosemary, and chives, infusing the chicken with a burst of aromatic and savory flavors that enhance its overall taste.
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Put the chicken thighs in a big plastic bag.
- Add lemon juice, chopped herbs, olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and a bit of red pepper flakes.
- Mix everything well in the bag, then keep it in the fridge for at least an hour.
- Put the chicken thighs in the air fryer.
- Sprinkle a little more salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes on top.
- Heat the air fryer to 390°F and cook the chicken for about 20 minutes until it’s 165°F inside.
Notes
- For a more intense flavor, you can marinate the chicken in the lemon herb mix overnight before baking.
- Feel free to use fresh herbs instead of dried ones if desired.
- You may substitute boneless skinless chicken breasts for thighs if desired. Increase cooking time by a few minutes if necessary.
- To keep this dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free cooking spray or olive oil instead of regular cooking spray.
- For added crunch, you can top the chicken thighs with crumbled bacon before baking.
FAQs
Q: Can I substitute boneless skinless chicken breasts for thighs?
A: Yes, you can substitute boneless skinless chicken breasts for thighs if desired. However, be sure to increase the cooking time by a few minutes as chicken breasts generally take longer to cook.
Q: Is there an alternative to olive oil?
A: Yes, you may substitute vegetable oil or melted butter in place of olive oil if desired. However, olive oil is a healthier option and it helps to keep the chicken moist during cooking. Also, to lighten things up, you can replace some of the olive oil with low-sodium vegetable broth.
Q: How can I make this dish dairy-free?
A: To make this dish dairy-free, simply omit the cooking spray and use olive oil instead. This will still provide plenty of flavor without any added dairy products.
Wrapping Up
If you’re looking for an easy yet flavorful meal, this Costco Lemon Herb Chicken Thigh recipe is sure to hit the spot. With its zesty lemon flavor and mix of herbs, it’s a delicious way to enjoy chicken. Whether you serve it with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes, this dish will become a family favorite!
Ready to give it a try? Gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get cooking! Also, don’t forget to experiment with different variations of the recipe to find the perfect flavor combination for your taste buds. And let us know how it turns out!
You’ll also like the latest recipes!
- Costco Copycat Salmon Cooking Instructions
- Jamaican Fruit Salad with Lime and Honey
- How to Make Jamaican Rum Raisin Ice Cream
My name is Lori Walker. I’m a registered dietitian, food blogger and food enthusiast. I share easy healthy, delicious recipes on my blog and review necessary kitchen items. The recipes I share take less… Read more
