Print

Crispy Cast Iron Seared Chicken Thighs Easy Herb Pan Sauce Recipe

crispy cast iron seared chicken thighs - featured image
Print Recipe

This recipe delivers crispy, golden chicken thighs seared in a cast iron skillet with a quick, flavorful herb pan sauce. Perfect for a fuss-free, comforting weeknight meal ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs / 700 g)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth or stock (120 ml)
  • Juice of half a lemon
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon white wine or dry sherry

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Let rest at room temperature for 10-15 minutes.
  2. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of oil. Heat until shimmering but not smoking, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Place chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet. Press gently with tongs for even contact. Cook undisturbed for 7-9 minutes until skin is golden brown and crispy.
  4. Flip the thighs and reduce heat to medium. Cook for another 6-8 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) or juices run clear.
  5. Transfer chicken to a warm plate and tent loosely with foil to rest.
  6. Reduce heat to medium-low. Add butter, garlic, and fresh herbs to the skillet. Stir for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
  7. Pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, and wine if using. Scrape browned bits from the pan. Simmer and reduce sauce slightly for 3-4 minutes.
  8. Spoon the herb pan sauce over the chicken thighs and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Pat chicken skin dry to ensure crispiness. Do not move chicken while searing skin-side down to develop a golden crust. Use a thermometer to check doneness. If pan sauce reduces too much, add a splash of broth or water. For reheating leftovers, use a low oven (300°F) to keep skin crispy.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy chicken thighs, cast iron skillet, herb pan sauce, quick chicken recipe, easy dinner, gluten-free, low-carb

Find it online: https://junomeals.com/crispy-cast-iron-seared-chicken-thighs-easy-herb-pan-sauce-recipe/