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Crispy Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs Skillet – Easy One-Pan Dinner

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This one-pan crispy garlic butter chicken thighs skillet delivers perfectly crispy skin, tender meat, and a rich garlic butter sauce in about 35 minutes. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing dinner that’s perfect for weeknights or entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4–6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 pounds)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 6–8 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
  • 1½ teaspoons kosher salt (Diamond Crystal), plus more for finishing
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ¼ cup low-sodium chicken broth or dry white wine
  • 4–5 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and let come to room temperature for about 20 minutes. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat a 12-inch cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes. Add olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Swirl to combine; when the butter stops foaming and smells nutty, it’s ready.
  3. Place chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd. Press down gently with a spatula for 10 seconds. Cook undisturbed for 6-8 minutes until the skin is deep golden brown and releases naturally.
  4. Flip the chicken using tongs and cook for 5-6 minutes on the second side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F or juices run clear. Transfer chicken to a plate and set aside.
  5. Reduce heat to medium-low. Add remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Once melted, add sliced garlic and fresh herb sprigs. Cook for 30-60 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant but not browned.
  6. Pour in chicken broth or wine, scraping up browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Simmer for 1-2 minutes until slightly reduced.
  7. Return chicken to the skillet, skin-side up. Spoon garlic butter sauce over the tops. Warm through for 2-3 minutes.
  8. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Serve immediately from the skillet.

Notes

Pat the chicken thoroughly dry for crispy skin. Do not move the chicken during the initial sear; let it release naturally. Watch the garlic carefully to avoid burning. For best results, use an instant-read thermometer to check for 165°F. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a 375°F oven for 8-10 minutes to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy garlic butter chicken thighs, one-pan chicken dinner, easy chicken recipe, skillet chicken, garlic butter chicken, weeknight dinner, low-carb chicken, keto chicken

Find it online: https://junomeals.com/crispy-garlic-butter-chicken-thighs-skillet-easy-one-pan-dinner/