Imagine tender chicken thighs enveloped in a rich, savory garlic butter sauce. Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs are not only a delight for the taste buds but also a quick and easy meal option for busy weeknights. The combination of succulent poultry infused with aromatic garlic and creamy butter makes for a dish that’s both comforting and irresistibly flavorful.
What’s more, this recipe allows for creativity; you can pair it with a variety of sides, from steamed vegetables to fluffy rice. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, the appeal of garlic-infused chicken lies in its simplicity and deliciousness. Prepare to impress your family and friends with this mouthwatering culinary creation!
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs:
To create mouthwatering Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs, gather the following ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 2 sage leaves, finely chopped
– 2 sprigs rosemary
– 7 cloves garlic, minced
– ¼ cup unsalted butter
– ¼ cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Chopped parsley, for garnish
These ingredients work beautifully together, infusing the chicken with robust flavors. The combination of Cajun seasoning, paprika, and aromatic herbs elevates the taste, while the garlic butter sauce adds a rich, savory finish. For an additional delightful option, consider pairing this dish with a refreshing side like Lemon Garlic Chicken Breast for a well-rounded meal.
Preparing this dish not only serves as a brilliant way to showcase chicken thighs, but also promises a pleasing aroma that fills your kitchen! It’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions – enjoy every bite!
How to Prepare Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs:
Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs are a flavorful delight that you can easily prepare at home. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Clean and pat the chicken thighs dry, ensuring any excess skin is trimmed away. Season generously with cajun seasoning, paprika, and Italian herbs.
Next, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, place the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear them for about five minutes until golden and crispy. After searing, remove the chicken and set aside, discarding any excess oil.
In the same skillet, lower the heat and add chicken broth, unsalted butter, and minced garlic. Once the butter melts, return the chicken to the pan, skin-side up, then sprinkle with finely chopped sage and fresh rosemary. Bake for 35 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Basting every 10 minutes ensures the skin stays crispy.
For an extra layer of flavor, consider pairing these tasty chicken thighs with dishes like Brown Sugar Balsamic Chicken. Serve your Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs with a drizzle of the sauce and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs:
To achieve succulent Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs, start by using bone-in, skin-on thighs. This cut retains moisture better and adds rich flavor. Begin your cooking with a hot skillet—add a generous amount of butter and let it melt before adding the chicken. Searing skin side down for that crispy texture is key. Don’t rush this step; patience yields better results.
Once browned, reduce the heat, and add minced garlic to the pan. You want it fragrant, not burnt. For extra depth, consider drizzling in a splash of lemon juice to balance the richness. Additionally, check for doneness with a meat thermometer; thighs should reach an internal temperature of 165°F for optimal juiciness.
For a delightful variation, explore this Easy Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts recipe. It pairs well with any sides to complement your chicken masterpiece. If you’re seeking more inspiration, find a thorough recipe guide on Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs for step-by-step instructions that promise to impress your dinner guests!
Serving Suggestions for Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs:
For a delightful meal, pair your Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs with roasted vegetables such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus. The savory flavors of the chicken beautifully complement the sweetness of the vegetables. To add a touch of heartiness, serve the chicken over a bed of buttery mashed potatoes or creamy polenta. These sides absorb the flavorful garlic butter sauce, making each bite more delicious. Additionally, consider a refreshing side salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. For a different twist, try this Lemon Garlic Chicken Breast recipe as a companion dish, adding a zesty flavor that contrasts nicely with the garlic butter chicken. Finally, if you’re feeling adventurous, a side of garlic bread will elevate the entire experience, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
Storage Tips :
To keep your Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container. A refrigerator is a suitable place for short-term storage, where your chicken can last up to three days. If you’re planning to keep it longer, consider freezing. Place the thighs in a freezer-safe bag, ensuring to squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing. They can last for up to three months in the freezer.
Reheating Instructions
When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, thaw them overnight in the fridge. For reheating, simply use the oven to maintain crispiness, or warm them in a skillet over medium heat. A touch of additional garlic butter can elevate the flavors, giving you that fresh taste again.
Combining Flavors
If you’re a fan of incorporating varied flavors, consider serving your chicken thighs with sides like chicken and orzo soup with lemon. These options add a refreshing zest to the dish, enhancing your meal experience.
Nutritional Information:
Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs are not only flavorful but also packed with essential nutrients. Each serving contains proteins for muscle building, healthy fats for energy, and a good amount of vitamins. This dish pairs excellently with dishes like creamy chicken, enhancing your meal with delightful flavor and ample nutrition. Enjoy a wholesome dining experience!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What are the main ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs?
To create delicious Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs, you’ll primarily need chicken thighs, unsalted butter, fresh garlic, and a blend of herbs like rosemary or thyme. For added flavor, consider including lemon juice or chicken broth.
How should I cook Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs?
Cooking these juicy thighs is straightforward. Start by searing the thighs in a hot skillet until golden brown. Then, add minced garlic and butter, allowing the flavors to meld. Finish cooking in the oven or on the stovetop until the chicken is thoroughly cooked.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs offer more moisture, chicken breasts can also work well. Just be cautious of the cooking time, as breasts may dry out faster.
What side dishes pair well with Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs?
To complement the rich flavors, serve your chicken with roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. For a delightful twist, consider trying this Lemon Garlic Chicken Breast for a similar flavor profile.
Can I make Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs in advance?
Certainly! You can prepare these thighs ahead of time. Just cook and refrigerate them, then reheat gently before serving. This makes for quick meals on busy days!
What variations can I try with this recipe?
Feel free to experiment. Add spices like paprika for a kick, or incorporate a splash of white wine. You can also explore different herbs, or even mix in some honey for sweetness.
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Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs That Everyone Will Love
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs are juicy, tender, and full of flavor, perfect for a hearty meal. The combination of garlic, butter, and herbs creates a mouth-watering sauce that pairs beautifully with crispy chicken skin.
Ingredients
4 bone in skin on chicken thighs
1 tbsp cajun seasoning
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp Italian seasoning
2 sage leaves finely chopped
2 sprigs rosemary
7 cloves garlic minced
¼ c butter unsalted
¼ c chicken broth
1 tsp Olive oil
Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400.
- Clean and pat dry chicken. Cut off any excess skin off the chicken. Season the chicken with cajun seasoning, paprika & Italian seasoning.
- Heat a small amount of olive oil in an oven safe skillet just enough to coat the pan, chicken thighs render fat so you don’t need much. Use medium heat, adjust as needed. Place the chicken thighs, skin side down and sear until crispy, about 5 minutes.
- Remove chicken from pan and discard excess oil. Don’t worry the chicken skin won’t be super crispy when you take it out, it will get more golden when cooked in the oven.
- In the same pan over low heat add the chicken broth, butter and garlic.
- Put chicken back in the pan skin side up and add the sage & rosemary.
- Place in the oven and let cook for 35 minutes or until the chicken reaches 165 internally, basting the chicken thighs with the sauce every 10 minutes.
- Serve with sauce drizzled over & dried parsley, and enjoy!
Notes
If you don’t have an oven safe pan, transfer everything to an oven safe baking dish before putting it in the oven. You can substitute thyme for the sage. Adding a little lemon and honey to the garlic butter sauce is a tasty way to elevate this dish even further.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Main Course
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 thigh
- Calories: 443
- Protein: 24g
