These Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs are a real treat! They’re juicy, packed with flavor, and made with simple ingredients like tender chicken, garlic, and creamy butter. Yum!
Honestly, the smell alone while cooking is enough to make anyone rush to the kitchen! I like serving them with some veggies or rice to soak up all that delicious butter sauce.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs are ideal for juicy and flavorful results. If you’re looking to save calories or time, boneless, skinless thighs or even chicken breasts can work, but they might dry out quicker.
Butter: Regular unsalted butter gives great flavor. For a healthier option, you could substitute olive oil. It changes the flavor profile slightly but still keeps it delicious!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best since it adds a wonderful aroma. If you’re in a hurry, use garlic powder as a substitute, but use less—about 1/4 teaspoon per clove.
Thyme: Dried thyme works perfectly, or you could use fresh thyme. Just remember, fresh herbs are typically more vibrant, so increase the amount to about 3 teaspoons if using fresh.
Paprika: Regular paprika creates a mild flavor. If you prefer a kick, substituting with smoked paprika adds a nice depth. For a milder option, just skip it altogether!
How Do I Get the Skin Extra Crispy?
The secret to crispy skin lies in proper drying and cooking techniques. Here’s how to achieve that perfect crunch:
- Use paper towels to thoroughly pat the chicken thighs dry before seasoning. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness!
- When cooking, ensure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This sears the skin and locks in flavor.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan; if the thighs are too close, they’ll steam instead of crisp up.
- Let them cook undisturbed for the first few minutes to allow a good crust to form.
By following these tips, you’ll have deliciously crispy chicken that’s packed with flavor! Enjoy every bite!
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15-20 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need around 30 minutes to enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This step is important; it helps the skin get crispy when cooked. Once dry, season both sides of the chicken generously with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and paprika to add flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. When the butter is melted and bubbling, carefully add the seasoned chicken thighs to the skillet, skin-side down. Cook them for about 7-8 minutes, or until the skin is beautiful, crispy, and golden brown.
3. Flip and Add Garlic:
Now it’s time to flip the chicken thighs over! Use tongs to do this gently. Once flipped, add the minced garlic around the chicken in the skillet. Let everything cook together for another 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safety.
4. Add Remaining Butter:
In the final minute of cooking, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Spoon the melted garlic butter over the chicken thighs to give them an even richer flavor as they finish cooking.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the chicken thighs for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot, drizzling the delicious garlic butter from the skillet over each thigh. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs will work just fine. Just reduce the cooking time slightly, cooking for about 5-6 minutes on each side since they cook faster without the bone.
What Can I Substitute for Butter?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use olive oil or coconut oil in place of butter. Both will give the dish a nice flavor, though it will be slightly different from the richness that butter imparts.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place the chicken thighs in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth to keep them moist.
Can I Customize the Seasonings?
Sure! Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. Italian seasoning, rosemary, or even a pinch of cayenne for heat can add a unique twist to the flavor profile!
