Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs are a tasty and juicy dish that really packs a punch! With buttery goodness and the bold flavor of garlic, it’s a meal that everyone will love!
Cooking these thighs is super fun; who doesn’t enjoy the sound of sizzling meat? I like to pair them with some veggies for a colorful plate. You’ll keep coming back for more! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs are the best choice for this dish. They stay juicy and flavorful. If you prefer, you can use boneless thighs or even chicken breasts, but adjust the cooking time as they cook faster.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives you control over the dish’s saltiness. You can substitute with ghee or olive oil for a dairy-free option. I love using a blend of butter and olive oil for a rich taste and health benefits.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is unbeatable here, enhancing the flavor greatly. If you’re out of fresh, use about 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder as a quick substitute.
Herbs: Fresh rosemary and thyme add an aromatic touch that’s hard to replicate. If they’re not available, use dried herbs, but remember they’re more potent, so use less—1 teaspoon of each will do. I love my dish to be herb-forward, so I often add more!
Paprika: This gives a nice color and mild flavor. Use smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky taste, or, if you want heat, try cayenne or chili powder instead.
How Can I Achieve Crispy Skin on the Chicken?
Getting that perfect, crispy skin on your chicken thighs is key to this recipe. Here’s how to sear them properly:
- Start with dry chicken thighs. Pat them with paper towels to remove any moisture — this helps the skin crisp up.
- Heat the skillet over medium-high heat until hot, then add butter and let it melt completely before adding chicken.
- Place the chicken skin-side down gently. Don’t rush this step; skin-side should be in contact with the pan for 5-7 minutes without moving it!
- Flip the thighs after the skin turns golden brown. Cook on the other side for another 5 minutes before adding your garlic and herbs.
With these tips, you’re on your way to a satisfying garlic butter chicken dish! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook. In total, you should plan for about 40 minutes to enjoy these flavorful chicken thighs.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps them get a nice, crispy skin when cooked. Next, season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and paprika to add some flavor.
2. Heat the Skillet:
Grab a large skillet and melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Let the butter melt completely, and be careful not to let it burn!
3. Sear the Chicken:
Add the seasoned chicken thighs to the skillet, skin-side down. Let them sear in the hot butter for about 5-7 minutes or until the skin is golden brown and crispy. After that, flip the thighs carefully and cook for an additional 5 minutes on the other side.
4. Add Garlic and Herbs:
Now it’s time to add some delicious flavor! Reduce the heat to medium, then add the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and thyme to the skillet. Stir everything around for about 30 seconds until your kitchen fills with a lovely aroma.
5. Add Remaining Butter:
Next, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. As it melts, use a spoon to drizzle the melted butter over the chicken thighs. This step really enhances the flavor and keeps the chicken juicy!
6. Cook Through:
Continue cooking the chicken for an additional 10-15 minutes. You want to make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear when pierced. This ensures your chicken is perfectly cooked.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the fresh parsley over the chicken for a pop of color and flavor. Serve the chicken hot, drizzled with the garlic butter sauce from the skillet. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs! However, they will cook faster, so reduce the cooking time by about 5-7 minutes. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) to guarantee they’re fully cooked.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Herbs?
No problem! If you’re out of fresh rosemary or thyme, you can use dried herbs instead. Use about 1/3 of the amount (1 teaspoon dried for every tablespoon fresh) since dried herbs are more concentrated. Just add them along with the garlic in step 4.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the skillet over low heat, or in the microwave, covered to keep them moist. Add a bit of butter or olive oil if needed to revive the flavor.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken up to the point of cooking, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This way, the flavors have time to meld. Just allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.
