For a simple, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight, these garlic chicken thighs are your new go-to. They’re packed with rich, garlicky goodness and versatile enough to serve with almost any side dish, from rice to roasted vegetables. With just a few basic ingredients, you’ll have a delicious, savory meal in no time.
Recipe for Garlic Chicken Thighs
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh, if available)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional for brightness)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.
2. Cook the Garlic
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter quickly. If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, use more cloves.
3. Sear the Chicken
Add the seasoned chicken thighs to the skillet. Let them sear for 5-6 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Avoid flipping the chicken too early to allow for a crispy, caramelized exterior.
4. Cook Through
After the thighs are seared, reduce the heat to low. Continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the chicken thighs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can also deglaze the pan with a bit of chicken broth or lemon juice to enhance the flavors and prevent the garlic from sticking.
5. Garnish and Serve
Once cooked, remove the chicken thighs from the skillet and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice, and serve with your favorite side dishes.
Tips & Variations
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If your skillet is too full, the chicken will steam instead of sear. Cook the thighs in batches if necessary to get that perfect golden-brown color.
- Customize the Spices: While this recipe uses garlic and thyme, feel free to experiment with other herbs like rosemary, oregano, or a dash of cayenne for some heat.
- Serving Suggestions: Garlic chicken thighs pair well with roasted vegetables, rice or quinoa, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.
No-Fuss Meals Need No-Fuss Ingredients from The Butcher Shop
Garlic chicken thighs are an easy, delicious option for any night of the week. When you start with the freshest ingredients from The Butcher Shop, you can create a simple meal packed with flavor. At TBS, our chicken is always 100% natural and locally sourced. We also carry fresh local produce, specialty cheeses, local wines and beers, and more. Stop by today or call ahead to pre-order your ingredients.