Garlic Lemon Butter Chicken Thighs are a wholesome, protein-packed meal featuring tender, juicy chicken thighs in a flavorful garlic lemon butter sauce. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping. Combining citrus tang, garlic aroma, and buttery goodness, it’s both nutritious and mouthwatering.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Pat the chicken dry: This ensures a beautiful golden sear and avoids steaming the chicken.
- Use a cast iron skillet: For an even, crispy finish on the chicken thighs.
- Add herbs at the end: To keep their fresh, vibrant flavor intact.
- Marinate ahead: Enhance flavors by marinating chicken for at least 30 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This Garlic Lemon Butter Chicken Thighs recipe is a game-changer for weeknight dinners. It’s quick, easy, and made with simple, wholesome ingredients. The tangy lemon and savory garlic complement the richness of butter, creating a sauce that coats the tender chicken beautifully. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is versatile, flavorful, and perfect for a healthy lifestyle. The aroma alone will make it a household favorite.
Garlic Lemon Butter Chicken Thighs
Savory garlic lemon butter chicken thighs, seared to perfection, infused with citrusy flavors, perfect for a healthy, hearty dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season generously with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place chicken thighs skin-side down and cook for 6-7 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. Flip and cook for another 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the butter, allowing it to melt. Add lemon juice, zest, and thyme, stirring to combine.
- Simmer Together: Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Cover and cook for 7-8 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot with steamed vegetables, rice, or salad for a balanced meal.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally to avoid undercooking.
- Avoid overcooking the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 459Total Fat 33gSaturated Fat 12gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 21gCholesterol 189mgSodium 339mgCarbohydrates 11gFiber 1gSugar 8gProtein 31g
The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.
Ingredients Notes:
- Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs work best for maximum flavor, but boneless thighs are a great alternative for quicker cooking.
- Garlic: Use fresh cloves for the best aromatic impact. Minced garlic releases its oils, adding depth to the dish.
- Lemon Juice and Zest: Fresh lemons provide a bright, zesty flavor that balances the richness of the butter.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the dish. A small amount goes a long way for flavor.
- Herbs: Fresh thyme or parsley adds an earthy freshness to the final dish.
Variations and Substitutions:
- Chicken Options: Swap thighs with drumsticks or chicken breasts, adjusting cooking times to ensure tenderness.
- Butter Alternative: For a dairy-free option, replace butter with olive oil or a vegan butter substitute.
- Citrus Variety: Experiment with lime or orange juice for a unique citrusy twist.
- Spice It Up: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with hearty vegetables like cauliflower steaks or portobello mushrooms.
Storage Options:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave to preserve flavor.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken thighs with sauce in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
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