Description
Garlic butter chicken thighs are a comforting and flavorful main dish made with bone in, skin on chicken thighs seared until crispy, then baked in a rich garlic butter sauce. This recipe delivers juicy meat, golden skin, and a savory aroma that makes it perfect for family dinners or simple meal prep.
Ingredients
Chicken thighs, skin on and bone in, about two pounds
Fine sea salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Extra virgin olive oil
Unsalted butter
Fresh garlic cloves, crushed
Fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven and position the rack in the center
2. Pat the chicken thighs completely dry and season them on all sides with salt and black pepper
3. Heat olive oil in an oven safe skillet until hot
4. Place the chicken thighs skin side down and cook until the skin becomes golden and crispy
5. Flip the chicken thighs and remove excess rendered fat if needed
6. Add butter to the skillet and allow it to melt gently
7. Stir in the crushed garlic and cook briefly until fragrant
8. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake until the chicken is fully cooked and tender
9. Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest briefly
10. Spoon the garlic butter sauce over the chicken and finish with chopped parsley
Notes
Drying the chicken skin thoroughly helps achieve the best crisp texture
Crushed garlic releases flavor gently and reduces the chance of burning
An instant read thermometer helps ensure perfectly cooked chicken
If using a pan that is not oven safe, transfer everything to a baking dish before baking
Allowing the chicken to rest improves juiciness and texture
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet and Oven Baked
- Cuisine: American