Name: Crispy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 4 to 5 pounds bone-in skin-on chicken thighs; 1/2 cup cup unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic (minced); 2 Tbsp Italian seasoning; 1 tsp sea salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper

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There’s something incredibly comforting about the aroma of Crispy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs wafting through the kitchen. I still remember the first time I made this dish—my family gathered around the table, eagerly awaiting the golden, crispy chicken with that rich garlic butter glaze. It was a chilly evening, and the warmth from the oven filled the air with a sense of home. As I pulled the dish out, the skin crackled and glistened, promising a feast for the senses. The best part? It’s so easy to prepare, yet it feels like a special occasion every time I serve it. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe never fails to impress. The combination of flavors and textures takes me back to simpler times when family dinners were the highlight of our week.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
1 hr 5 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
50 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
400 kcal

Protein:
28 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
32 g

Tools Used:
Large Casserole Dish, Digital Thermometer

The Magic of This Crispy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs

Unmatched Flavor

One of the reasons I adore Crispy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs is the flavor explosion each bite delivers. The savory notes of the garlic and the richness of the butter create a mouthwatering combination that elevates the humble chicken. When cooked just right, the skin crisps up beautifully, while the meat remains juicy and tender.

Simple Ingredients

The simplicity of the ingredients makes this dish even more appealing. With just a handful of pantry staples like butter, garlic, and Italian seasoning, you can create something extraordinary. There’s a certain joy in knowing that such delightful flavors can come from ingredients you likely already have on hand.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe fits the bill. It’s versatile enough to be paired with various sides, from fluffy rice to roasted vegetables. Plus, it’s an excellent choice for meal prep—just make a larger batch and enjoy it throughout the week!

Customizable

While I love the classic version, Crispy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs can easily be customized to suit your taste. Experiment with different herbs and spices or add a splash of lemon juice for a zesty twist. The possibilities are endless, and that’s part of the fun!

Healthy Comfort Food

This dish not only satisfies your cravings but also offers a healthier alternative to takeout. With no artificial ingredients or preservatives, you can enjoy your meal guilt-free. Plus, it’s packed with protein, making it a filling choice that keeps you satisfied longer.

Quick and Easy

Finally, let’s not forget how quickly you can whip this up! With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time. That’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

Ingredient List for Crispy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs

When it comes to Crispy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs, the ingredients play a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance of flavor and texture. Using high-quality chicken is essential, as it absorbs the garlic butter and seasoning beautifully. The addition of garlic not only enhances the flavor but also brings a wonderful aroma to your kitchen.

4 to 5 pounds bone-in skin-on chicken thighs: The star of the dish, these thighs provide juicy, tender meat that stays moist during cooking.
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps the garlic and herbs cling to the chicken.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Gives the dish its bold flavor and aromatic qualities.
2 tablespoons Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that complements the chicken perfectly.
1 teaspoon sea salt: Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick to the overall taste.

How to Cook Crispy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs

Cooking Crispy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs is a straightforward process that anyone can master. The key is to follow each step closely to ensure the chicken comes out perfectly cooked and flavorful. Let’s dive into the steps!

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. This initial step is crucial as it ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and achieves that desired crispiness.
In a microwave-safe bowl, microwave the stick of butter until melted, which should take about 30 to 60 seconds. Be careful not to overheat it, as you want it fully melted but not bubbling.
Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, sea salt, and black pepper to the melted butter. Stir everything together until well combined to create the delicious garlic butter sauce.
Take the chicken thighs out of their packaging and pat them dry with a paper towel if there’s any excess liquid. This step is important for achieving crispy skin, as moisture can prevent it from browning.
Transfer the dry chicken thighs to a large casserole dish or baking dish in a single layer. Make sure not to crowd the dish, as this will help them cook evenly.
Spoon the garlic butter mixture over the chicken thighs, spreading it out so that every bit of skin is coated. If you enjoy a saltier flavor, feel free to sprinkle a little more sea salt over the top.
Place the dish in the preheated oven on the center rack and bake for 40 minutes. The kitchen should start to smell amazing by now!
After 40 minutes, take the chicken out and baste it with the juices from the pan. This will keep the meat moist and enhance the flavor.
Increase the oven temperature to 425 degrees F and return the chicken thighs to the oven for an additional 5 to 10 minutes. This step helps to crisp up the skin further.
For an extra crispy finish, consider moving the oven rack to the third shelf from the top and broil for 3 to 5 minutes, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning. The skin should turn a beautiful golden brown.
Check that the internal temperature of the chicken thighs reaches at least 165 degrees F using a meat thermometer, but for optimal flavor and texture, I recommend cooking them to around 180 degrees F or higher.
Finally, serve your Crispy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs with your favorite sides, and don’t forget to spoon some of the delicious juices over everything. Enjoy!

Things Worth Knowing

Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken has reached a safe internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
Pat dry: Always pat your chicken dry before seasoning to achieve that crispy skin you’re after.
Let it rest: After cooking, allow the chicken thighs to rest for a few minutes to retain moisture.
Experiment with flavors: Don’t hesitate to customize the recipe by adding different herbs or spices to the garlic butter.

Recipe Notes about Crispy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs

While Crispy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs is straightforward, here are some additional notes to enhance your cooking experience.

Storage: Store leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
Freezing: You can freeze cooked chicken thighs for up to 3 months. Just ensure they’re well wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Pairing: Serve with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Herb variations: Feel free to use fresh herbs like parsley, rosemary, or oregano for a fresher taste.
Sides: Great options include rice, quinoa, or roasted potatoes to soak up the delicious juices.

Accompaniments for Crispy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs

Serving Crispy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs is an opportunity for creativity! Here are some perfect accompaniments:

Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus make for a colorful and healthy side.
Rice: Both white and brown rice are perfect for soaking up the garlic butter sauce.
Salads: A crisp Caesar or garden salad adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.
Potatoes: Roasted or mashed potatoes are always a hit and complement the dish well.
Special Occasions: This dish is ideal for family gatherings, holiday dinners, or any celebration.
Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for about a week, making it great for meal prep.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can substitute boneless chicken thighs for bone-in. Just keep in mind that boneless thighs may cook a bit faster, so be sure to check the internal temperature earlier. Boneless options are just as flavorful, and they offer a great alternative if you prefer not to deal with bones.

There are so many great sides to pair with Crispy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs. Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans work beautifully to add some freshness to your plate. You could also serve it over fluffy rice or with roasted potatoes to soak up all that delicious garlic butter sauce. A light salad can provide a nice balance to the richness of the chicken.

To achieve that perfect crispy skin, it’s essential to pat your chicken dry before seasoning. This removes excess moisture that can prevent crisping. Baking at a high temperature toward the end of the cooking time helps too. You can also use the broil setting for the last few minutes, which gives an extra crunch!

Yes, you can prepare the Crispy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs ahead of time! Simply prep the chicken and garlic butter mixture, store them separately in the refrigerator, and then bake them when you’re ready to serve. This is a great option for meal prep or for hosting when you want to reduce kitchen time.

Conclusion

Crispy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs truly encapsulate the essence of comfort food—rich, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. It’s a dish that brings people together, perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; your taste buds will thank you! Not only is it simple to make, but it also transforms a humble ingredient into something extraordinary.