Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs are juicy, flavorful, and super easy to make! The buttery garlic sauce gives the chicken a tasty twist that you’ll love.
I always say, the more garlic, the better! 😄 Pair this dish with rice or veggies, and you’ve got a dinner that feels fancy but only takes a little time to cook!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs bring tons of flavor and moisture. You can use skinless thighs or chicken breasts if you’re looking for fewer calories. Just watch cooking time since breasts cook faster.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for this recipe. If you’re out, garlic powder works in a pinch, but fresh provides a deeper taste. Start with 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder per clove.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best to control the overall saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, you can replace it with olive oil or a plant-based butter for a similar richness.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds great flavor. You can substitute canola oil or avocado oil if that’s what you have at home.
Herbs: Fresh thyme offers a stronger flavor than dried. If using dried thyme, 1 teaspoon is enough. I enjoy adding a splash of lemon juice for extra brightness!
How Can I Ensure the Chicken Skin is Crispy?
Getting crispy skin is all about the right technique. Start by drying the chicken well—this helps render the fat and crisp up the skin. Here are steps to achieve that golden perfection:
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning.
- Heat the skillet until the oil shimmers, then lay the chicken skin-side down gently to avoid splattering.
- Don’t flip the chicken too early; let it cook undisturbed for 5-7 minutes until a nice golden crust forms.
- When turning, lower the heat to avoid burning the garlic later and keep the chicken tender.
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: lemon wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25 minutes to cook. You’ll have a delightful meal ready in about 35 minutes. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This will help them get nice and crispy when cooked. Season both sides of the chicken thighs generously with salt, black pepper, and paprika. This adds great flavor!
2. Heat the Olive Oil:
In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to give the chicken a nice sear. Once it’s hot, carefully add the chicken thighs, skin-side down. Be careful of any splatter!
3. Crispy Skin Time:
Let the chicken cook without moving it for about 5-7 minutes. You’re looking for that beautiful golden brown and crispy skin. Once it’s looking good, flip the chicken thighs over and turn the heat down to medium.
4. Add Butter and Garlic:
Now it’s time to make it extra tasty! Add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Let the butter melt and the garlic cook gently for about 1-2 minutes. Watch closely! You don’t want to burn the garlic because it can get bitter.
5. Baste and Cook Through:
Here comes the delicious part! Using a spoon, baste the chicken thighs with the melted butter and garlic. Let them cook for an additional 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them, cooking until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This ensures they’re fully cooked and safe to eat!
6. Rest and Garnish:
Once the chicken is cooked through, carefully remove the thighs from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes. This will help keep them juicy! Before serving, sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your garlic butter chicken thighs with lemon wedges on the side if you like. The squeeze of lemon adds a bright finish. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs! Just reduce the cooking time as they will cook faster. Aim for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Substitute for Butter?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute the unsalted butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine. Both options will give you a nice flavor, though the coconut oil will add a slight coconut taste.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover garlic butter chicken thighs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep them moist.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or zucchini to the skillet after flipping the chicken. This will give them plenty of flavor as they cook in the garlic butter. Just make sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking!
