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Chelles Recipes

Garlic Butter Pan-Seared Chicken Thighs Flavor Boost

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- Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs - Unsalted butter - Garlic - Dried thyme - Smoked paprika - Seasoning - Fresh parsley - Lemon wedges The key to great flavor in garlic butter pan-seared chicken thighs lies in the ingredients. I always choose bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for their rich taste and juicy texture. These thighs stay moist during cooking and absorb flavors well. Next, unsalted butter is vital. It adds creaminess and a rich base for the garlic and herbs. Fresh garlic is a must. I use six cloves, minced finely, for a strong garlic punch. Garlic turns sweet and fragrant when cooked, bringing warmth to the dish. Dried thyme adds an earthy note. Its subtle flavor works well with chicken. Smoked paprika gives the dish a touch of smokiness and deep color. I season with salt and pepper to taste, enhancing all the flavors without overpowering them. For garnish, I use fresh parsley. It adds a pop of color and freshness. Finally, lemon wedges on the side brighten the dish and balance the richness of the butter. When you squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken, it lifts the flavors beautifully. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a dish that is not just tasty but also visually appealing. {{ingredient_image_1}} First, pat the chicken thighs dry using paper towels. This step helps the skin get crispy. Next, season the thighs with salt and pepper on both sides. Don’t be shy with the seasoning! In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until it bubbles. This butter will add a rich flavor to your chicken. Now it’s time to sear! Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the hot skillet. Cook them for about 7-8 minutes. Keep them still; let the skin get golden brown and crispy. This step is key to building flavor. Once the skin looks perfect, flip the chicken thighs over. After flipping, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Toss in the minced garlic, dried thyme, and smoked paprika. These ingredients will make your kitchen smell amazing! Baste the chicken with the melted garlic butter. Spoon the flavorful mix over the thighs to keep them moist and tasty. Check the chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, take the chicken out of the skillet. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Resting helps keep the juices in. Now you're ready to enjoy your delicious garlic butter chicken thighs! To get a perfect sear on your chicken thighs, start with the right skillet temperature. Heat your skillet to medium before adding butter. This ensures the butter doesn’t burn and helps the skin crisp up nicely. Once you place the chicken in the skillet, leave it alone. This is key! Moving it around can ruin that golden-brown crust you want. Let it cook skin-side down for 7-8 minutes without touching it. To boost flavor, think about adding more herbs and spices. Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can add a bright taste. If you prefer dried herbs, use them too, but know fresh herbs often pack more flavor. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. This simple tweak can make your dish pop! Using fresh herbs can give your meal a vibrant taste. Dried herbs are great if fresh isn’t available, but they often have a milder flavor. For a great meal, pair your chicken with sides that complement its rich taste. Roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes work well. You can also serve it with a light salad to balance the dish. When plating, arrange the chicken thighs neatly and drizzle the garlic butter sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley and add lemon wedges on the side. This adds color and freshness, making it look as good as it tastes! Pro Tips Dry the Skin: Make sure to pat the chicken thighs dry before seasoning. This helps achieve a crispy skin when searing. Butter Basting: As the chicken cooks, spoon the melted garlic butter over the thighs to enhance flavor and keep them moist. Resting Time: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps redistribute the juices, making the meat more tender. Internal Temperature: Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. {{image_2}} You can make some swaps for a healthier dish. First, use skinless chicken thighs. This change cuts down on fat and calories but still keeps the meat juicy. You can also swap butter for olive oil. Olive oil has good fats and adds a nice flavor. Just use the same amount as the butter. If you want to mix things up, try adding citrus flavors. Squeeze some lemon juice or add orange zest for a bright kick. This balances the richness of the butter. You can also use fresh herbs like rosemary or basil. These herbs add depth and freshness. Just chop them finely and mix them into the garlic butter. For a different way to cook, try baking the chicken in the oven. Preheat to 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 30 minutes. This method gives you tender meat and crispy skin. A fun option is the air fryer. It cooks the chicken quickly and makes the skin super crispy. Just set it to 375°F (190°C) for about 25 minutes. Either method gives you a tasty meal! After you enjoy your garlic butter chicken thighs, store the leftovers in a good container. I recommend using airtight containers. These help keep the chicken fresh and tasty. You can use glass or plastic containers, but make sure they seal well. Place the chicken in the fridge. It will stay good for 3 to 4 days. When you want to reheat the chicken, do it gently. Use a skillet over low heat. This helps keep the chicken moist. Add a splash of water or broth to the pan. Cover it with a lid to trap steam. You can also reheat in the microwave. If you choose this method, use a microwave-safe dish. Cover it with a damp paper towel. This also keeps moisture in. Always check that the chicken is hot all the way through. Enjoy your meal again! To check if chicken thighs are ready, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). This ensures the meat is safe to eat. Always check the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding the bone. If you don't have a thermometer, cut into the chicken. The juices should run clear, not pink. Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs. However, they will cook faster than bone-in thighs. Adjust your cooking time to about 5-6 minutes per side. Boneless thighs may have less flavor due to the absence of bones. Consider adding extra spices or herbs to boost the taste. Garlic butter chicken thighs pair well with many sides. Here are some great options: - Roasted vegetables: Carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts add color and nutrition. - Mashed potatoes: Creamy potatoes soak up the garlic butter sauce well. - Rice: A simple white or brown rice complements the dish nicely. - Salad: A fresh side salad adds crunch and balances the meal. - Wine: Try a light Chardonnay or a fruity Pinot Noir for a perfect pairing. These sides enhance the flavors and make your meal complete. You learned how to cook delicious garlic butter chicken thighs. We covered essential ingredients and step-by-step methods. Searing the chicken well brings out great flavor. Tips and variations help you personalize your dish. Storing and reheating leftovers keeps meals fresh. With simple tweaks, you can make this meal even healthier or unique. Enjoy your cooking journey, and make this recipe your own!

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Get ready to elevate your dinner game with Garlic Butter Pan-Seared Chicken Thighs! This dish combines tender, juicy chicken with rich garlic butter and savory spices. It’s simple to prepare and packs a punch of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or enjoy a cozy family meal, this recipe is your ticket to culinary success. Let’s dive in and make your next dinner unforgettable!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Flavorful Garlic Butter: This recipe features a rich garlic butter sauce that elevates the chicken with its savory aroma and taste.
  2. Perfectly Crispy Skin: Searing the chicken thighs ensures a deliciously crispy skin that locks in moisture and flavor.
  3. Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute guests.
  4. Versatile Serving Options: Serve with lemon wedges for a fresh kick, or pair with your favorite sides for a complete meal.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

  • Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • Unsalted butter
  • Garlic
  • Dried thyme
  • Smoked paprika
  • Seasoning
  • Fresh parsley
  • Lemon wedges

The key to great flavor in garlic butter pan-seared chicken thighs lies in the ingredients. I always choose bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for their rich taste and juicy texture. These thighs stay moist during cooking and absorb flavors well.

Next, unsalted butter is vital. It adds creaminess and a rich base for the garlic and herbs. Fresh garlic is a must. I use six cloves, minced finely, for a strong garlic punch. Garlic turns sweet and fragrant when cooked, bringing warmth to the dish.

Dried thyme adds an earthy note. Its subtle flavor works well with chicken. Smoked paprika gives the dish a touch of smokiness and deep color. I season with salt and pepper to taste, enhancing all the flavors without overpowering them.

For garnish, I use fresh parsley. It adds a pop of color and freshness. Finally, lemon wedges on the side brighten the dish and balance the richness of the butter. When you squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken, it lifts the flavors beautifully.

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a dish that is not just tasty but also visually appealing.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

First, pat the chicken thighs dry using paper towels. This step helps the skin get crispy. Next, season the thighs with salt and pepper on both sides. Don’t be shy with the seasoning! In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until it bubbles. This butter will add a rich flavor to your chicken.

Searing the Chicken

Now it’s time to sear! Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the hot skillet. Cook them for about 7-8 minutes. Keep them still; let the skin get golden brown and crispy. This step is key to building flavor. Once the skin looks perfect, flip the chicken thighs over.

Adding Flavor

After flipping, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Toss in the minced garlic, dried thyme, and smoked paprika. These ingredients will make your kitchen smell amazing! Baste the chicken with the melted garlic butter. Spoon the flavorful mix over the thighs to keep them moist and tasty.

Final Checks

Check the chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, take the chicken out of the skillet. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Resting helps keep the juices in. Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious garlic butter chicken thighs!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Sear

To get a perfect sear on your chicken thighs, start with the right skillet temperature. Heat your skillet to medium before adding butter. This ensures the butter doesn’t burn and helps the skin crisp up nicely.

Once you place the chicken in the skillet, leave it alone. This is key! Moving it around can ruin that golden-brown crust you want. Let it cook skin-side down for 7-8 minutes without touching it.

Enhancing Flavor

To boost flavor, think about adding more herbs and spices. Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can add a bright taste. If you prefer dried herbs, use them too, but know fresh herbs often pack more flavor.

You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. This simple tweak can make your dish pop! Using fresh herbs can give your meal a vibrant taste. Dried herbs are great if fresh isn’t available, but they often have a milder flavor.

Serving Suggestions

For a great meal, pair your chicken with sides that complement its rich taste. Roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes work well. You can also serve it with a light salad to balance the dish.

When plating, arrange the chicken thighs neatly and drizzle the garlic butter sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley and add lemon wedges on the side. This adds color and freshness, making it look as good as it tastes!

Pro Tips

  1. Dry the Skin: Make sure to pat the chicken thighs dry before seasoning. This helps achieve a crispy skin when searing.
  2. Butter Basting: As the chicken cooks, spoon the melted garlic butter over the thighs to enhance flavor and keep them moist.
  3. Resting Time: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps redistribute the juices, making the meat more tender.
  4. Internal Temperature: Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

Variations

Healthier Alternatives

You can make some swaps for a healthier dish. First, use skinless chicken thighs. This change cuts down on fat and calories but still keeps the meat juicy. You can also swap butter for olive oil. Olive oil has good fats and adds a nice flavor. Just use the same amount as the butter.

Flavor Twists

If you want to mix things up, try adding citrus flavors. Squeeze some lemon juice or add orange zest for a bright kick. This balances the richness of the butter. You can also use fresh herbs like rosemary or basil. These herbs add depth and freshness. Just chop them finely and mix them into the garlic butter.

Cooking Methods

For a different way to cook, try baking the chicken in the oven. Preheat to 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 30 minutes. This method gives you tender meat and crispy skin. A fun option is the air fryer. It cooks the chicken quickly and makes the skin super crispy. Just set it to 375°F (190°C) for about 25 minutes. Either method gives you a tasty meal!

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

After you enjoy your garlic butter chicken thighs, store the leftovers in a good container. I recommend using airtight containers. These help keep the chicken fresh and tasty. You can use glass or plastic containers, but make sure they seal well. Place the chicken in the fridge. It will stay good for 3 to 4 days.

Reheating Guidelines

When you want to reheat the chicken, do it gently. Use a skillet over low heat. This helps keep the chicken moist. Add a splash of water or broth to the pan. Cover it with a lid to trap steam. You can also reheat in the microwave. If you choose this method, use a microwave-safe dish. Cover it with a damp paper towel. This also keeps moisture in.

Always check that the chicken is hot all the way through. Enjoy your meal again!

FAQs

How do I know when chicken thighs are cooked?

To check if chicken thighs are ready, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). This ensures the meat is safe to eat. Always check the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding the bone. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the chicken. The juices should run clear, not pink.

Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs. However, they will cook faster than bone-in thighs. Adjust your cooking time to about 5-6 minutes per side. Boneless thighs may have less flavor due to the absence of bones. Consider adding extra spices or herbs to boost the taste.

What can I pair with garlic butter chicken thighs?

Garlic butter chicken thighs pair well with many sides. Here are some great options:

  • Roasted vegetables: Carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts add color and nutrition.
  • Mashed potatoes: Creamy potatoes soak up the garlic butter sauce well.
  • Rice: A simple white or brown rice complements the dish nicely.
  • Salad: A fresh side salad adds crunch and balances the meal.
  • Wine: Try a light Chardonnay or a fruity Pinot Noir for a perfect pairing.

These sides enhance the flavors and make your meal complete.

You learned how to cook delicious garlic butter chicken thighs. We covered essential ingredients and step-by-step methods. Searing the chicken well brings out great flavor. Tips and variations help you personalize your dish. Storing and reheating leftovers keeps meals fresh. With simple tweaks, you can make this meal even healthier or unique. Enjoy your cooking journey, and make this recipe your ow

- Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs - Unsalted butter - Garlic - Dried thyme - Smoked paprika - Seasoning - Fresh parsley - Lemon wedges The key to great flavor in garlic butter pan-seared chicken thighs lies in the ingredients. I always choose bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for their rich taste and juicy texture. These thighs stay moist during cooking and absorb flavors well. Next, unsalted butter is vital. It adds creaminess and a rich base for the garlic and herbs. Fresh garlic is a must. I use six cloves, minced finely, for a strong garlic punch. Garlic turns sweet and fragrant when cooked, bringing warmth to the dish. Dried thyme adds an earthy note. Its subtle flavor works well with chicken. Smoked paprika gives the dish a touch of smokiness and deep color. I season with salt and pepper to taste, enhancing all the flavors without overpowering them. For garnish, I use fresh parsley. It adds a pop of color and freshness. Finally, lemon wedges on the side brighten the dish and balance the richness of the butter. When you squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken, it lifts the flavors beautifully. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a dish that is not just tasty but also visually appealing. {{ingredient_image_1}} First, pat the chicken thighs dry using paper towels. This step helps the skin get crispy. Next, season the thighs with salt and pepper on both sides. Don’t be shy with the seasoning! In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until it bubbles. This butter will add a rich flavor to your chicken. Now it’s time to sear! Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the hot skillet. Cook them for about 7-8 minutes. Keep them still; let the skin get golden brown and crispy. This step is key to building flavor. Once the skin looks perfect, flip the chicken thighs over. After flipping, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Toss in the minced garlic, dried thyme, and smoked paprika. These ingredients will make your kitchen smell amazing! Baste the chicken with the melted garlic butter. Spoon the flavorful mix over the thighs to keep them moist and tasty. Check the chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, take the chicken out of the skillet. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Resting helps keep the juices in. Now you're ready to enjoy your delicious garlic butter chicken thighs! To get a perfect sear on your chicken thighs, start with the right skillet temperature. Heat your skillet to medium before adding butter. This ensures the butter doesn’t burn and helps the skin crisp up nicely. Once you place the chicken in the skillet, leave it alone. This is key! Moving it around can ruin that golden-brown crust you want. Let it cook skin-side down for 7-8 minutes without touching it. To boost flavor, think about adding more herbs and spices. Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can add a bright taste. If you prefer dried herbs, use them too, but know fresh herbs often pack more flavor. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. This simple tweak can make your dish pop! Using fresh herbs can give your meal a vibrant taste. Dried herbs are great if fresh isn’t available, but they often have a milder flavor. For a great meal, pair your chicken with sides that complement its rich taste. Roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes work well. You can also serve it with a light salad to balance the dish. When plating, arrange the chicken thighs neatly and drizzle the garlic butter sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley and add lemon wedges on the side. This adds color and freshness, making it look as good as it tastes! Pro Tips Dry the Skin: Make sure to pat the chicken thighs dry before seasoning. This helps achieve a crispy skin when searing. Butter Basting: As the chicken cooks, spoon the melted garlic butter over the thighs to enhance flavor and keep them moist. Resting Time: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps redistribute the juices, making the meat more tender. Internal Temperature: Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. {{image_2}} You can make some swaps for a healthier dish. First, use skinless chicken thighs. This change cuts down on fat and calories but still keeps the meat juicy. You can also swap butter for olive oil. Olive oil has good fats and adds a nice flavor. Just use the same amount as the butter. If you want to mix things up, try adding citrus flavors. Squeeze some lemon juice or add orange zest for a bright kick. This balances the richness of the butter. You can also use fresh herbs like rosemary or basil. These herbs add depth and freshness. Just chop them finely and mix them into the garlic butter. For a different way to cook, try baking the chicken in the oven. Preheat to 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 30 minutes. This method gives you tender meat and crispy skin. A fun option is the air fryer. It cooks the chicken quickly and makes the skin super crispy. Just set it to 375°F (190°C) for about 25 minutes. Either method gives you a tasty meal! After you enjoy your garlic butter chicken thighs, store the leftovers in a good container. I recommend using airtight containers. These help keep the chicken fresh and tasty. You can use glass or plastic containers, but make sure they seal well. Place the chicken in the fridge. It will stay good for 3 to 4 days. When you want to reheat the chicken, do it gently. Use a skillet over low heat. This helps keep the chicken moist. Add a splash of water or broth to the pan. Cover it with a lid to trap steam. You can also reheat in the microwave. If you choose this method, use a microwave-safe dish. Cover it with a damp paper towel. This also keeps moisture in. Always check that the chicken is hot all the way through. Enjoy your meal again! To check if chicken thighs are ready, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). This ensures the meat is safe to eat. Always check the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding the bone. If you don't have a thermometer, cut into the chicken. The juices should run clear, not pink. Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs. However, they will cook faster than bone-in thighs. Adjust your cooking time to about 5-6 minutes per side. Boneless thighs may have less flavor due to the absence of bones. Consider adding extra spices or herbs to boost the taste. Garlic butter chicken thighs pair well with many sides. Here are some great options: - Roasted vegetables: Carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts add color and nutrition. - Mashed potatoes: Creamy potatoes soak up the garlic butter sauce well. - Rice: A simple white or brown rice complements the dish nicely. - Salad: A fresh side salad adds crunch and balances the meal. - Wine: Try a light Chardonnay or a fruity Pinot Noir for a perfect pairing. These sides enhance the flavors and make your meal complete. You learned how to cook delicious garlic butter chicken thighs. We covered essential ingredients and step-by-step methods. Searing the chicken well brings out great flavor. Tips and variations help you personalize your dish. Storing and reheating leftovers keeps meals fresh. With simple tweaks, you can make this meal even healthier or unique. Enjoy your cooking journey, and make this recipe your own!

Garlic Butter Pan-Seared Chicken Thighs

Deliciously seared chicken thighs in a rich garlic butter sauce.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • as needed Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions
 

  • Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
  • In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until melted and bubbly.
  • Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet. Sear for about 7-8 minutes, without moving them, until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
  • Flip the chicken thighs and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, minced garlic, dried thyme, and smoked paprika to the skillet.
  • Cook for another 7-8 minutes on the other side, occasionally spooning the melted garlic butter over the thighs to enhance flavor and moisture.
  • Check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for about 5 minutes.
  • To serve, plate the chicken thighs and pour the garlic butter sauce over them. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing.

Notes

Let the chicken rest before serving for better flavor.
Keyword butter, chicken, garlic, seared, thighs

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