Print

Best Easy One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs Recipe

one-pan garlic butter chicken thighs - featured image
Print Recipe

Crispy-skinned chicken thighs cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce, all in one pan. Ready in under 40 minutes, this family-friendly recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and uses simple pantry ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6–8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2.5–3 pounds total)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (56 grams), room temperature
  • 6–8 fresh garlic cloves, smashed or thinly sliced
  • ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth (120 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (sweet or smoked)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prep the chicken: Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and dried thyme. Let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes.
  2. Heat the skillet: Place a large heavy-bottomed skillet (12-inch, cast iron or stainless steel) over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of butter. It should sizzle and foam immediately.
  3. Sear the chicken: Place chicken thighs skin-side down in the hot butter. Cook undisturbed for 5-6 minutes until deep golden brown. Flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
  4. Sauté the garlic: Reduce heat to medium-low. Add remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add garlic and cook for 30-60 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Do not let it burn.
  5. Deglaze and make the sauce: Pour in chicken broth, scraping up browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let simmer for 1-2 minutes until slightly reduced.
  6. Return the chicken: Nestle chicken thighs back into the pan, skin-side up. Spoon sauce over tops. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, basting occasionally, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  7. Rest and serve: Remove from heat. Let rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if using. Serve directly from the pan.

Notes

Pat chicken dry thoroughly for crispy skin. Watch garlic carefully to avoid burning. Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness. Let chicken rest 5 minutes before serving. Leftovers keep in refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth for best results.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic butter chicken thighs, one-pan chicken, easy chicken recipe, crispy chicken thighs, weeknight dinner, cast iron skillet chicken

Find it online: https://junomeals.com/best-easy-one-pan-garlic-butter-chicken-thighs-recipe/