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Crispy One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs

Crispy One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs - featured image

Achieve shatteringly crisp chicken thighs with this easy one-pan recipe. Bone-in, skin-on thighs are seared and finished in the oven with garlic butter for a flavorful, textured dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 to 3 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 6 to 8 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Kosher salt and coarse black pepper
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges

Instructions

  1. Pat chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper. Let sit on the counter to air-dry.
  2. Heat an oven-safe skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and swirl until shimmering.
  3. Place chicken thighs skin-side down in the hot pan. Sear without moving for 6-8 minutes until the skin is deep golden brown and releases easily. Flip and cook for 2 minutes.
  4. Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the pan. Once melted and foaming, add garlic, oregano, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Stir constantly for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Transfer the skillet to a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven. Bake for 15-18 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Notes

Ensure chicken is completely dry before cooking to maximize crispiness. Do not crowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Garlic burns easily, so watch it closely when adding to the hot pan. If using salted butter, reduce added salt. For dairy-free, swap butter for ghee or high-heat oil.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken thighs, crispy chicken, one pan dinner, garlic butter chicken, easy weeknight dinner, keto friendly, gluten free