Name: Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs: A Flavorful, Easy Weeknight Meal
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: This cut of chicken is perfect for this recipe because the skin crisps up wonderfully, and the meat stays juicy and flavorful.; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: The base of the garlic butter sauce. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the seasoning.; 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds an aromatic, savory flavor that infuses the chicken.; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme): A touch of thyme complements the richness of the garlic butter.; 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a mild smoky flavor and helps the skin develop a golden-brown color.; ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavor of the chicken.; ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and works beautifully with the garlic and butter.; 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps sear the chicken and contributes to a crispy skin.; Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish: Adds a pop of color and freshness when serving.; Optional: Lemon wedges for serving: The brightness of fresh lemon cuts through the richness of the garlic butter and adds a refreshing contrast.

Description

Tender, juicy chicken thighs bathed in a rich, fragrant garlic butter sauce—this dish is a comfort food dream. The chicken is seared to golden perfection, then generously coated in a garlic and herb-infused butter sauce that’s both savory and slightly indulgent. The combination of the crispy skin and the luscious garlic butter creates a mouthwatering contrast of textures and flavors. Perfect for those who enjoy a hearty, flavorful dish with minimal effort, these garlic butter chicken thighs are a deliciously satisfying option for any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: This cut of chicken is perfect for this recipe because the skin crisps up wonderfully, and the meat stays juicy and flavorful.
3 tablespoons unsalted butter: The base of the garlic butter sauce. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the seasoning.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds an aromatic, savory flavor that infuses the chicken.
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme): A touch of thyme complements the richness of the garlic butter.
1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a mild smoky flavor and helps the skin develop a golden-brown color.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavor of the chicken.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and works beautifully with the garlic and butter.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps sear the chicken and contributes to a crispy skin.
Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish: Adds a pop of color and freshness when serving.
Optional: Lemon wedges for serving: The brightness of fresh lemon cuts through the richness of the garlic butter and adds a refreshing contrast.

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Instructions

STEP 1: PREHEAT THE OVEN

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). The high heat will help the chicken thighs cook quickly and develop a crispy skin.

STEP 2: SEASON THE CHICKEN

Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This is important for getting that crispy skin! Once dry, place the chicken thighs on a clean cutting board or plate.

Drizzle 1 tablespoon olive oil over the chicken thighs and rub it in evenly. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Make sure to season both sides of the chicken for maximum flavor.

STEP 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and sizzling, add the chicken thighs to the pan, skin-side down. Let them cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Don’t move the chicken around during this step; let it sear undisturbed for the best results.

Once the chicken is nicely browned on one side, flip the chicken over to the other side and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. This helps lock in the juices and creates a flavorful crust.

STEP 4: MAKE THE GARLIC BUTTER SAUCE

While the chicken is cooking, make the garlic butter sauce. In a small saucepan, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Once the garlic is soft and fragrant, remove from heat and stir in the fresh thyme.

STEP 5: BASTE AND BAKE

Once the chicken is seared, pour the garlic butter mixture over the chicken thighs, spooning some of the sauce onto the chicken. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The skin should be golden brown and crispy, and the meat will be tender and juicy.

If you want extra crispy skin, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Just make sure to watch the chicken carefully to avoid burning the garlic butter.

STEP 6: REST AND SERVE

Once the chicken is cooked through, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat juicy and tender.

Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for a bright burst of flavor. Serve the chicken thighs alongside your favorite side dishes and enjoy!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes

Nutrition

Calories: 450 kcal
Fat: 36g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 30g