Crispy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs
There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of crispy, savory chicken thighs bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce. These Crispy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs are not just any ordinary chicken dish; they are the epitome of flavor, with juicy meat that practically melts in your mouth and a crispy, golden skin that keeps you coming back for more. Perfect for dinner, meal prep, or even a casual gathering, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!
Why Cooks Rave About It
Cooks everywhere can’t get enough of this recipe, and for good reason! The combination of garlic and butter creates a rich, aromatic flavor that enhances the natural taste of the chicken. The high oven heat ensures that the skin becomes perfectly crispy while the meat remains tender and juicy. Plus, this dish is incredibly versatile; you can pair it with a variety of sides, from roasted vegetables to creamy mashed potatoes. With minimal prep time and a hands-off cooking process, you’ll find yourself making these Crispy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs again and again.
What You’ll Gather
- 4 to 5 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning*
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
*Feel free to use your favorite blend of herbs if Italian seasoning isn’t on hand.
Gear Checklist
- Baking sheet: A large, rimmed baking sheet to catch all the delicious drippings.
- Parchment paper: Optional, but it makes for easier cleanup.
- Meat thermometer: To ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly.
- Mixing bowl: For combining the garlic butter mixture.
- Brush or spoon: To apply the garlic butter on the chicken.
Crispy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs in Steps
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is essential for achieving that coveted crispy skin.
Step 2: Prepare the garlic butter
In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, sea salt, and black pepper. Allow this mixture to simmer for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let the garlic burn.
Step 3: Arrange the chicken thighs
While the garlic butter simmers, arrange the bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs on a baking sheet. Make sure they are spaced out evenly to promote even cooking.
Step 4: Apply the garlic butter
Using a brush or a spoon, generously coat the chicken thighs with the garlic butter mixture. Be sure to get some of the mixture under the skin for maximum flavor!
Step 5: Bake the chicken
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). For an extra crispy skin, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Step 6: Let it rest
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.
Warm & Cool Weather Spins
- Warm weather: Serve with a fresh salad and grilled corn on the cob for a light, summery meal.
- Cool weather: Pair with creamy mashed potatoes and roasted Brussels sprouts for a cozy dinner.
Slip-Ups to Skip
- Don’t skip the resting time! Allowing the chicken to rest before serving enhances juiciness.
- Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet; this can prevent the chicken from crisping up properly.
- Be mindful of the broiling step — it’s easy for garlic to burn quickly, so keep a watchful eye!
Prep Ahead & Store
You can prepare the garlic butter mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, simply reheat it gently. Leftover chicken thighs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain crispiness, or enjoy cold in salads or sandwiches!
Your Top Questions
Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead?
Yes! Boneless chicken thighs will cook faster, so reduce the baking time to about 25-30 minutes. Always check the internal temperature to ensure they are fully cooked.
What sides go well with Crispy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, including roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or a simple green salad. Feel free to get creative with your pairings!
Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken in the garlic butter mixture overnight will infuse even more flavor. Just make sure to bring the chicken to room temperature before baking.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The juices should run clear when pierced, and the skin should be golden brown and crispy.
Final Thoughts
The beauty of Crispy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs lies not only in their delicious flavor but also in their simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a meal that impresses family and friends alike. Whether you serve it for a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your table. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in the crispy, buttery goodness that awaits!
Crispy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is essential for achieving that coveted crispy skin.
- Step 2: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter. Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, sea salt, and black pepper. Allow to simmer for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Step 3: Arrange the bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs on a baking sheet, spaced out evenly.
- Step 4: Generously coat the chicken thighs with the garlic butter mixture using a brush or spoon.
- Step 5: Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Broil for an additional 2-3 minutes for extra crispiness.
- Step 6: Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Prepare the garlic butter mixture a day in advance and store in the refrigerator.
- Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven to retain crispiness.
