Preheat your oven to 450°F, positioning the rack in the middle. This high temperature is key to achieving that fabulous crispy skin on the chicken thighs.
While the oven heats, take your chicken thighs and pat them dry with a paper towel. This step is crucial as it helps the skin crisp up beautifully. Generously sprinkle kosher salt on both sides of the chicken, about 2 teaspoons total, ensuring even seasoning.
Take one lemon and cut it in half crosswise. From one half, cut it into thin half-moon slices, and set these aside. For the second lemon, juice all the remaining halves, measuring out about 3 tablespoons of juice for later use.
Now, heat a 12-inch oven-safe heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil. This will help achieve that golden sear.
Place the chicken thighs in the skillet skin-side down, allowing them to cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes. This is when the skin will become deliciously crispy, so resist the urge to move them around. Sprinkle freshly ground black pepper on the meaty side as they cook.
Once the skin is golden brown, flip the pieces over and let them cook for an additional 2 minutes. This brief cooking time allows for a flavor base to form before transferring the chicken to a plate.
Carefully spoon off excess fat from the skillet, retaining just enough oil to coat the bottom. Add the minced garlic to the hot pan, stirring until fragrant but not burned. This will only take about 30 seconds.
Pour in the chicken broth, along with the reserved lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet – this is where immense flavor hides!
Season the sauce with salt and pepper according to your taste. Tuck in the thyme sprigs and add the slices of lemon that you set aside earlier. Arrange the seared chicken thighs back into the pan, ensuring they sit skin-side up.
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and roast for about 15 to 20 minutes. You're looking for the internal temperature of the chicken to reach 175°F to 185°F. Once done, you'll have perfectly cooked Crispy Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs.
Finish the dish by garnishing with a sprinkle of minced Italian parsley right before serving. This adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
