These Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs are juicy and packed with flavor. The rich butter and zesty garlic create a mouthwatering dish that’s hard to resist!
Plus, they’re easy to make—just sear and bake! I love pairing them with a side of veggies or some rice to soak up all that delicious garlic butter!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for their rich flavor and moisture. You can substitute with boneless thighs or chicken breasts if you prefer, but they may cook quicker and can dry out more easily.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a strong flavor that’s essential for this dish. If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove you’d replace, but fresh is always best!
Butter: Unsalted butter is perfect because you can control the salt levels in the dish. If you’re dairy-free, try using olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative instead. It will change the flavor a bit but will still be tasty!
Herbs: Fresh thyme and rosemary make a big difference in flavor. If you’re out, Italian seasoning or dried herbs (about half the amount of fresh) would work, though fresh is always my favorite choice for potency.
How Do You Get Crispy Skin on Chicken Thighs?
Getting that nice, crispy skin on chicken thighs is easier than you might think. The key is in the searing process. Here’s how to ensure it turns out perfectly every time:
- Start with a hot pan: Heat your olive oil until it shimmers.
- Skin-side down: Lay the chicken thighs skin-side down gently in the pan without overcrowding.
- Patience is key: Let them sear without moving them for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is a deep golden brown.
- Don’t flip too soon: Resist the urge to flip the chicken until a nice crust forms. This helps keep the skin crispy.
Following these tips will help you achieve that delightful crispy skin, making your dish even more irresistible!
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary (or 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes of cooking time. In just under an hour, you’ll have a wonderfully delicious garlic butter chicken dish that is sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your chicken thighs cook perfectly when they go in later.
2. Season the Chicken:
While the oven is heating up, season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This will add great flavor to your dish!
3. Sear the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, place the chicken thighs skin-side down into the skillet. Sear them for about 5-7 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and nice and crispy. This step adds so much flavor!
4. Add the Butter and Herbs:
Carefully flip the chicken thighs over in the skillet. Now, add the butter to the pan. As the butter melts, mix in the minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary. Spoon some of this delicious garlic butter over the chicken thighs while you let them cook for another 2 minutes on the stovetop.
5. Roast the Chicken:
Now, it’s time for the oven! Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast the chicken for about 15-20 minutes. You want the chicken to be cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
6. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the chicken juicy and delicious. If you like, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley over the top for a lovely garnish. And there you have it—your tasty garlic butter chicken thighs are ready to serve! Enjoy!
Can I Use Skinless Chicken Thighs for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use skinless chicken thighs, but keep in mind they may not get as crispy. To compensate, you might want to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re fully cooked and juicy. Also, consider adding a bit more oil to help retain moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you’re out of olive oil, feel free to use vegetable oil, canola oil, or even melted coconut oil. Each of these options will work well for searing the chicken and providing a nice flavor without overpowering the garlic butter.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat gently in the oven or stovetop to maintain their moisture. If you want to freeze them, let them cool first, then they can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or bell peppers to the skillet before transferring it to the oven. Just make sure to cut them into even sizes so they cook at the same rate as the chicken, and consider adding a little extra olive oil and seasoning to balance the flavors.
