These Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs are juicy, skillet-seared perfection with a bright, buttery kick. Ideal for those seeking bold flavor and quick prep, they bring weeknight comfort without the guilt.
This recipe falls under lemon chicken recipes and garlic butter chicken, making it a fantastic choice for one-pan dinners. It’s a family-friendly option that fits well into healthy chicken dinners and comfort food categories.
Flavorful Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
The star of this dish is undoubtedly the lemon garlic butter sauce, which infuses the chicken with a vibrant flavor profile.
Combining the zest and juice of fresh lemons with minced garlic creates a bright and aromatic base that enhances the juicy chicken thighs.
This sauce not only adds depth to the dish but also ensures that each bite is bursting with flavor, making it a standout among lemon chicken recipes.
Perfectly Cooked Chicken Thighs
Chicken thighs are known for their rich flavor and tenderness, making them an excellent choice for this recipe.
When seared to a golden brown, they develop a delightful crust that locks in moisture, resulting in juicy meat that pairs beautifully with the buttery sauce.
Cooking them in a skillet allows for even heat distribution, ensuring that the chicken is cooked through while retaining its natural juices.
A Quick and Easy Weeknight Meal
This dish is designed for those busy weeknights when time is of the essence.
With a total prep and cook time of just 30 minutes, it fits seamlessly into your schedule.
Simply sear the chicken, add the sauce ingredients, and let it simmer.
It’s a hassle-free option that doesn’t compromise on taste, making it a go-to for family-friendly dinners.
Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs shine when served alongside fluffy rice and steamed vegetables.
The rice absorbs the delicious sauce, creating a satisfying base that complements the chicken perfectly.
Steamed vegetables add a pop of color and nutrition, rounding out the meal and making it a wholesome choice for healthy chicken dinners.
Garnishing for Presentation
Presentation plays a key role in making this dish appealing.
Garnishing with fresh parsley not only adds a splash of color but also enhances the overall flavor.
A beautifully plated dish of Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs, with its golden-brown chicken and vibrant sides, is sure to impress at the dinner table.
Nutrition and Health Benefits
This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious.
With approximately 320 calories per serving, it provides a balanced meal option that fits well into various dietary plans.
The combination of protein from the chicken and healthy fats from the butter ensures that you feel satisfied without overindulging.
Easy Skillet Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs
This dish features tender chicken thighs cooked in a rich lemon garlic butter sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight meal. The recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and cook for about 6-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown. Flip and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Lemon: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic, lemon juice, and zest to the skillet. Sprinkle with thyme or rosemary and stir to combine.
- Finish Cooking: Cover the skillet and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot. This dish pairs well with rice or vegetables for a complete meal.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 22g
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 2g