If you're looking for a flavorful and easy-to-make chicken dinner, look no further than these Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. With a crispy skin and juicy meat, these chicken thighs are a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with any of your favorite sides.
Baked Chicken Thighs: Simple and Tasty
Sometimes, the simplest ingredients can create the most delicious meals. That's certainly the case with these baked chicken thighs. With just a few key ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering dish that will impress your family and friends.
The star of this recipe is the garlic butter sauce. It adds a rich and savory flavor to the chicken, making it incredibly tasty. Plus, you can use this versatile sauce as a base for many other recipes, including baked chicken breast, salmon, and even lamb chops. It's a game-changer!
Ingredients to Make Baked Chicken Thighs
To make these baked chicken thighs, you'll need the following ingredients:
- Chicken thighs: Opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs to achieve a crispy exterior and juicy interior.
- Salt and pepper: Season the chicken thighs to enhance the flavors.
- Olive oil: Use olive oil or any other neutral cooking oil.
- Garlic: Crush fresh garlic cloves for maximum flavor.
- Butter: Choose unsalted butter for a rich and creamy taste.
- Fresh parsley: Garnish your dish with fresh parsley or any other herb of your choice.
How to Prepare Chicken Thighs Recipe
Preparing these chicken thighs is a breeze. Follow these simple steps:
- Pat dry the chicken thighs using a paper towel to ensure a crispy skin.
- Season both sides of the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
- Mince the garlic and chop the parsley. Preparing these ingredients in advance will make cooking smoother.
Brown and Cook Chicken Thighs
To achieve a golden-brown sear on your chicken thighs:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken thighs in a single layer and allow them to cook until the skin turns golden brown. Avoid moving them too much to ensure the perfect sear.
- If you're using a regular nonstick skillet, add a little oil to prevent sticking.
Make Garlic Butter and Bake the Chicken Thighs in the Oven
- Melt the butter on the side of the pan.
- Add the minced garlic and stir until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic by keeping the heat at a moderate level.
- Place the skillet in the oven and bake until the chicken thighs are fully cooked. If you're not using a cast iron skillet, transfer everything to a sheet pan or baking sheet before placing it in the oven. If the chicken thighs are getting too dark, cover them with foil until they are completely cooked.
Baste and Serve
Once the chicken thighs are out of the oven, give them a final touch:
- Spoon the garlic butter sauce over the chicken thighs a few times to coat them.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with your favorite sides.
How Long to Bake Chicken Thighs?
The baking time depends on whether you're using boneless or bone-in chicken thighs:
- Boneless chicken thighs cook quickly, usually in about 15 to 20 minutes, depending on their size.
- Bone-in thighs require a longer baking time, usually between 25 and 30 minutes. It's important not to overcook them to maintain their tenderness.
Storage and Reheating
To store the cooked chicken thighs:
- Transfer them to an airtight container within 2 hours for proper food safety.
- Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
To freeze:
- Allow the cooked chicken thighs to cool.
- Transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months.
For reheating:
- Thaw the chicken thighs in the refrigerator.
- Reheat in the oven until warmed through, or heat in a pan on the stove with a little oil. Avoid using the microwave as it may make the skin soggy.
What Goes With Chicken Thighs?
These garlic butter baked chicken thighs pair well with various side dishes, such as:
- Roasted vegetables: A perfect side to complement any protein, especially chicken.
- Mushroom cauliflower rice skillet: This flavorful cauliflower dish makes an excellent accompaniment.
- Roasted green beans: A simple and tasty side to go along with these chicken thighs.
- Potato salad: A flavorful and versatile side that goes well with anything.
- Broccoli salad: An easy and flavorful salad that adds freshness to your meal.
- Cauliflower potato salad: A low-carb and delicious alternative to traditional potato salad.
Recipe Variations
For some exciting variations, try these additions to the garlic butter sauce:
- Lemon herb: Add fresh lemon juice and zest to the garlic butter mixture. Season with a blend of your favorite herbs.
- Spicy garlic butter: Add red pepper flakes, garlic powder, or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Parmesan crusted: Sprinkle extra Parmesan on top before baking to create a golden and crispy crust.
- Honey Dijon mustard: Drizzle a mixture of honey and mustard over the cooked chicken thighs for a luscious touch.
Recommended Tools
To make the best out of this recipe, consider having these tools handy:
- Kitchen tongs: Tongs provide precise control and grip, allowing you to flip each chicken thigh individually without disturbing the others.
- Cast iron skillet: A cast iron skillet helps you achieve a nice golden sear on the chicken.
- Meat thermometer: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken for perfect doneness.
Frequently Asked Questions
For more information about cooking chicken thighs, here are some common questions:
More Chicken Thigh Recipes
If you enjoyed this baked chicken thighs recipe, try some other easy-to-make dishes:
- Spicy Chicken Thighs
- Chicken Thighs and Bell Peppers
- Easy Dijon Chicken Thighs
These recipes are just as delicious and will surely become new favorites in your kitchen.
Now that you have the recipe, it's time to gather the ingredients and start cooking these delectable Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs. Enjoy the mouthwatering flavors and the simplicity of this delightful dish!
