Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs

 

Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs

Introduction

Looking for a quick and delicious dinner recipe that’s packed with flavor? These Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs are juicy, tender, and coated in a rich, garlicky butter sauce. Perfect for weeknights or when entertaining guests, this one-pan recipe is simple yet impressive. Let’s dive in!


Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken:

    • Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season them on both sides with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
  2. Sear the Chicken:

    • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and cook for 5–6 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
    • Flip the chicken and cook for another 4–5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:

    • In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter.
    • Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
    • Add chili flakes (if using), chicken broth, and lemon juice. Stir and let simmer for 2 minutes.
  4. Cook the Chicken in the Sauce:

    • Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, skin-side up. Spoon some sauce over the chicken.
    • Cover and cook on low heat for 8–10 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C).
  5. Garnish and Serve:

    • Sprinkle the chicken with fresh parsley and serve hot with your favorite sides.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Boneless Option: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts for a leaner option. Reduce cooking time accordingly.
  • Herb Lovers: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the garlic butter sauce for extra aroma.
  • Creamy Sauce: Stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream for a rich, creamy garlic butter sauce.
  • Vegetarian Alternative: Replace chicken with cauliflower steaks or portobello mushrooms for a veggie-friendly version.

Serving Suggestions

  • Side Dishes: Pair with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or fluffy white rice.
  • Bread Pairing: Serve with warm crusty bread to soak up the garlic butter sauce.
  • Salad Option: Add a fresh garden salad with vinaigrette for a balanced meal.

Conclusion

These Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs are a foolproof addition to your collection of dinner recipes. With crispy skin, juicy meat, and a buttery garlic sauce, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Make it tonight and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!

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