Summery-fresh barbecue dish with Mediterranean flair
Tender chicken thighs, marinated in an aromatic mixture of fresh lemon juice, thyme and garlic, then grilled until golden brown or baked in the oven. This dish combines succulent meat with a refreshing citrus flavour and Mediterranean herbs – perfect for warm summer evenings.
Ideal wine accompaniment: Sauvignon Blanc
A Sauvignon Blanc is the ideal accompaniment for this dish. Its lively acidity and the flavours of citrus fruit, green apple and fresh herbs harmonise perfectly with the lemon and thyme marinade of the chicken thighs. The freshness of the wine emphasises the lightness of the dish and provides a pleasant contrast to the spiciness of the thyme. A Sauvignon Blanc from the Loire or New Zealand brings the necessary freshness and complexity to complement this dish perfectly.
Further wine recommendations:
Verdejo (Spain, Rueda DO): A fresh white wine with flavours of citrus fruit, green apple and a light herbal note. The lively acidity and fruitiness of the Verdejo perfectly complement the lemon and thyme flavour of the chicken thighs. Its structure provides a pleasant contrast to the delicate texture of the meat.
Pinot Grigio (Italy, DOC delle Venezie): A light, dry white wine with flavours of pear, citrus fruit and a hint of almonds. The subtle fruitiness and fresh acidity of the Pinot Grigio harmonise well with the lemon marinade and thyme. A versatile companion for summer dishes.
Chenin Blanc (South Africa, Stellenbosch WO): A medium-bodied white wine with flavours of apple, honey and a fine minerality. The combination of fruitiness and freshness of the Chenin Blanc goes well with the lemon-thyme marinade and emphasises the flavours of the chicken. A wine with character that elegantly accompanies the dish.
Albariño (Spain, Rías Baixas DO): An aromatic white wine with notes of citrus, peach and a salty minerality. The freshness and lively acidity of the Albariño complements the lemon and thyme flavour of the chicken thighs and adds a maritime note. Ideal for lovers of white wines full of character.
Grüner Veltliner (Austria, Wachau DAC): A dry white wine with flavours of green apple, citrus fruits and a spicy pepper note. The freshness and fine spiciness of Grüner Veltliner harmonise well with the lemon and thyme marinade and provide an exciting contrast to the tenderness of the chicken. A classic accompaniment for light poultry dishes.
The recipe:
Marinated chicken thighs with a hint of lemon and thyme
Cooking utensils
- 1 Grill or oven
- 1 Bowl for the marinade
- 1 Baking tray or grill rack
Ingredients
For the chicken thighs:
- 2 Chicken thighs approx. 300 g each
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- Juice and zest of one organic lemon
- 2 Sprigs of fresh thyme
- 1 Garlic clove finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation
Preparation:
- In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon juice and zest, chopped garlic, plucked thyme leaves, salt and pepper.
- Place the chicken thighs in the marinade, rub in well and leave to marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (2-4 hours is better).
Preparation:
- Preheat the grill or oven to 180 °C (grill: indirect heat, oven: fan-assisted).
- Place the chicken thighs on the grill rack or on a baking tray lined with baking paper.
- Cook for approx. 40-45 minutes, brushing occasionally with a little marinade.
- At the end of the cooking time, briefly increase the temperature or brown under the grill until golden brown.
- Leave to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Recommended side dishes:
- Baked potatoes with rosemary – earthy and crispy, harmonizes perfectly with lemon and thyme.
- Grilled green asparagus – slightly bitter, brings freshness and Mediterranean depth.
- Couscous salad with pomegranate and mint – fruity, tart and fresh herbs as a contrast to the marinade.
