These Campfire Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs are the perfect combination of juicy, tender chicken with a zesty and aromatic lemon herb marinade.

Grilled over the campfire, the smoky char from the fire pairs wonderfully with the bright lemon flavor, making each bite flavorful and satisfying.

The chicken thighs are seasoned with a blend of fresh herbs and garlic, creating a mouthwatering dish that’s simple yet packed with flavor.

Whether you’re cooking outdoors or in your backyard, this easy recipe will become your go-to for grilled chicken.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These chicken thighs are tender, juicy, and full of flavor, thanks to the lemon and herb marinade.

The smoky flavor from grilling over the campfire adds a wonderful depth, making these chicken thighs the star of any outdoor gathering. They’re easy to prepare, cook quickly, and the simple ingredients allow the natural flavors of the chicken and herbs to shine.

This recipe is perfect for a family meal, camping, or BBQs with friends.

Ingredients:

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lemon, zested and juiced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
1 tablespoon honey (optional, for sweetness)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. If you like a touch of sweetness, add the honey. Whisk everything together to create the marinade.
Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each thigh is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
Prepare the Campfire or Grill: If you’re using a campfire, prepare a bed of hot coals or set up a grill grate over medium-high heat. You can also use a grill or stovetop cast-iron skillet to cook the chicken if you’re not cooking over an open flame.
Cook the Chicken:
- Campfire Method: Place the chicken thighs on the grill grate or over the campfire. Cook for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until the skin is crispy, and the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
- Grill/Skillet Method: Preheat the grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the skin is crispy.
Finish and Serve: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the heat. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and serve immediately. This dish pairs well with grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

Expert Tips for the Recipe:

Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are the best for grilling because they stay juicy and tender. The skin crisps up beautifully over the fire or grill.
Marinating Time: For the most flavorful chicken, allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, marinating overnight will deepen the flavor even further.
Grilling Tip: Keep the heat at medium-high to ensure the chicken gets a nice crispy skin without burning. Be sure to rotate the chicken to avoid flare-ups from the fat.
Herb Substitutions: Fresh herbs work best, but if you only have dried, reduce the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.