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Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs

Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs

Maria G. Brooks
These Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs are irresistibly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, coated in a rich and savory garlic butter sauce.
With simple ingredients and easy steps, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal prep option.
Serve it with your favorite sides for a restaurant-quality meal at home!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American, Keto-Friendly, Low-Carb
Servings 4 Servings
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Large Cast-Iron or Stainless-Steel Skillet
  • 1 Tongs (for flipping)
  • 1 Meat Thermometer (for checking doneness)
  • 1 Small Bowl (for mixing seasonings)
  • 1 Spoon or Basting Brush (for applying garlic butter)

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:

  • 4 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme chopped (or ½ tsp dried)
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice optional, for extra brightness

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  • Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season the chicken evenly on both sides.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

  • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
    Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and cook for 6-7 minutes without moving, until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Y
    Flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

  • Reduce the heat to medium-low and push the chicken to one side of the skillet.
    Add butter and minced garlic, stirring until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
    Then, add thyme and lemon juice (if using).

Step 4: Baste the Chicken

  • Spoon the melted garlic butter over the chicken thighs repeatedly for 1-2 minutes, ensuring each piece is coated in flavor.

Step 5: Finish Cooking (Optional Oven Method)

  • For extra tenderness, transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) and bake for 5-7 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 6: Rest & Serve

  • Remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes.
    Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm with your favorite sides.

Notes

  • For Extra Crispy Skin: Always start with dry chicken thighs and avoid flipping them too soon while cooking.
  • Substitutions: Swap butter for ghee or olive oil if you want a dairy-free version.
  • Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months.
  • Reheating Tip: For the best texture, reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes instead of microwaving.
Keyword Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs