Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs

Introduction

Indulge in the rich flavors of Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs, a comforting dish that combines crispy skin, tender meat, and aromatic garlic butter. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is both simple and delicious.

Ingredients

6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
6 garlic cloves (minced)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper (to taste)
Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Lemon wedges (for serving, optional)

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Chicken Thighs: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and rosemary.
3. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes, until the skin is golden and crispy. Flip the chicken thighs and cook for another 3-4 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Make the Garlic Butter: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to low and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned.
5. Return Chicken to the Skillet: Place the chicken thighs back into the skillet, skin-side up, and spoon the garlic butter over the chicken.
6. Bake the Chicken: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken thighs are fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C).
7. Serve: Garnish the chicken with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges for an extra zing, if desired. Spoon the garlic butter sauce from the pan over the chicken or serve alongside.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 6 and takes about 40-50 minutes to prepare and cook, including searing and baking.

Variations

• Herb Substitutes: Feel free to substitute the dried thyme and rosemary with fresh herbs for a more intense flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for some heat.
• Different Cuts: You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken breasts; just adjust cooking times as necessary.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave on a lower setting to maintain moisture.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
   Yes, but adjust the cooking time as chicken breasts may cook faster.
2. Is it necessary to use bone-in, skin-on thighs?
   While they provide more flavor and moisture, you can use boneless or skinless thighs if preferred.
3. What can I serve with this dish?
   It pairs well with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
4. How do I know when the chicken is cooked?
   The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safety.
5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   You can prepare the chicken and garlic butter in advance and bake just before serving.
6. What type of skillet should I use?
   Use an oven-safe skillet, such as cast iron or stainless steel.
7. Can I freeze the leftovers?
   Yes, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
8. What if I don’t have garlic?
   Garlic powder can be used as a substitute, but fresh garlic is recommended for best flavor.
9. Can I add vegetables to the skillet?
   Yes, adding vegetables like potatoes or green beans can make for a complete meal.
10. How do I make the garlic butter sauce thicker?
    Simmer the sauce a bit longer after adding the garlic to reduce it for a thicker consistency.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs are a satisfying and flavorful dish that showcases the beauty of simple ingredients cooked to perfection. With its crispy skin and rich garlic sauce, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy this delicious meal with family and friends!

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