Easy Skillet Chicken Thighs

There’s something incredibly comforting about a dish that can transform a simple weeknight dinner into something special, and that’s exactly what Easy Skillet Chicken Thighs does. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a chilly evening, and after a long day at work, I just wanted something hearty without the fuss. With just a few ingredients that I already had on hand, I was able to create a meal that my family couldn’t stop raving about. The crispy skin paired with a creamy sauce made every bite feel indulgent, yet it was effortless to prepare. Now, it’s a staple in our home, often requested for dinner. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, Easy Skillet Chicken Thighs is the perfect answer for any occasion.

Easy Skillet Chicken Thighs Shopping List

The ingredients in Easy Skillet Chicken Thighs are not only simple, but they also work harmoniously together. Each component plays a crucial role in building flavor and texture. From the succulent chicken thighs to the creamy sauce enriched with aromatic garlic and thyme, this dish offers a delightful balance that’s sure to please any palate.

• 6 chicken thighs (about 1 ½ pounds) – Juicy and flavorful, these thighs are the star of the dish, providing tenderness and richness.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a warm, savory note that enhances the overall flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder – Contributes a subtle sweetness and depth to the seasoning blend.
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika – Offers a hint of smokiness and beautiful color.
• Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste – Essential for seasoning the chicken perfectly.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – Used for sautéing, it adds richness and helps achieve that crispy skin.
• 1 tablespoon butter – Enhances the sauce with a creamy texture and flavor.
• 1 small shallot, minced – Provides a mild onion flavor that complements the garlic.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic adds aromatic depth and bold flavor.
• 1/2 cup chicken broth – Forms the base of the sauce, ensuring it remains moist and flavorful.
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice – Brightens the flavors and adds acidity to balance the richness.
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme – Offers an earthy aroma and flavor that pairs beautifully with chicken.
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes – Adds a gentle heat that elevates the dish.
• 1/3 cup heavy cream – Makes the sauce creamy and luxurious.
• Freshly chopped parsley, for garnish – Provides a fresh, vibrant touch to finish the dish.

Recipe Directions for Easy Skillet Chicken Thighs

Cooking Easy Skillet Chicken Thighs is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. Follow these steps to create a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s get started!

1. Start by using a paper towel to pat the chicken thighs dry. This step is crucial as it helps achieve that perfect crispy skin when cooking.

2. In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Kosher salt, and black pepper. This seasoning blend is essential for flavoring the chicken. Rub it all over the chicken thighs, ensuring both sides are well coated.

3. Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Swirl it around to coat the bottom of the skillet. You’ll want it hot enough that it shimmers but not smoking.

4. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken thighs skin side down into the skillet. Cook for about 7 to 8 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown.

5. Flip the chicken thighs over and cook for another 15 to 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees. Keep an eye on the size and thickness of the thighs, as cooking times may vary.

6. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute.

7. In the same skillet, add the butter, shallot, and garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant and softened.

8. Stir in the chicken broth, lemon juice, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Reduce the heat to low and bring it to a gentle simmer while scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet. This adds depth to the sauce.

9. Next, stir in the heavy cream and continue to simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.

10. Finally, return the chicken to the skillet, coating it in the creamy sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm. Enjoy!

Pro Tips and Tweaks

Enhance your cooking experience with these helpful tips for making Easy Skillet Chicken Thighs. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced cook, these suggestions will elevate your dish!

• Storage: Store leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They make for great leftovers!
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Just ensure it’s stored in a freezer-safe container.
• Reheating: To reheat in the oven, preheat to 350°F. Place the chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake until warmed through.
• Air Fryer Reheat: For a quicker option, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3 to 4 minutes until heated through.
• Add Veggies: Consider adding seasonal veggies like bell peppers or zucchini to the skillet for a complete meal.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve with a side of roasted potatoes or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the dish.

Perfect Matches for Easy Skillet Chicken Thighs

When serving Easy Skillet Chicken Thighs, think about complementing flavors and textures. Here are some great matches to round out your meal:

• Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: Pair with a mix of roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans for a vibrant side.
• Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture of mashed potatoes complements the richness of the sauce beautifully.
• Fresh Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette can balance the dish perfectly.
• Rice or Quinoa: Serve over fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Perfect for Gatherings: This dish is great for family dinners or gatherings with friends. It feels special without requiring a lot of effort.
• Storage Tip: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to four days in the refrigerator.
• Seasonal Pairing: In fall, consider serving with roasted squash for a comforting seasonal touch.

FAQ

Conclusion

Easy Skillet Chicken Thighs is a delightful dish that’s both simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying. The crispy skin and creamy sauce make each bite special, and it’s a meal that can easily bring everyone to the table. I highly encourage you to try this recipe; it’s sure to become a favorite in your household!

Easy Skillet Chicken Thighs

Craving comfort food? This Easy Skillet Chicken Thighs recipe delivers juicy, flavorful chicken with a creamy sauce that's perfect for an easy weeknight dinner. Get ready to impress your family with this simple yet delicious dish!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 400

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 6 pieces chicken thighs about 1 ½ pounds
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 small shallot minced
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1/3 cup heavy cream
• Freshly chopped parsley for garnish

Equipment

• cast-iron skillet

Method

 

1. Start by using a paper towel to pat the chicken thighs dry. This step is crucial as it helps achieve that perfect crispy skin when cooking.
2. In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Kosher salt, and black pepper. This seasoning blend is essential for flavoring the chicken. Rub it all over the chicken thighs, ensuring both sides are well coated.
3. Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Swirl it around to coat the bottom of the skillet. You’ll want it hot enough that it shimmers but not smoking.
4. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken thighs skin side down into the skillet. Cook for about 7 to 8 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
5. Flip the chicken thighs over and cook for another 15 to 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees. Keep an eye on the size and thickness of the thighs, as cooking times may vary.
6. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute.
7. In the same skillet, add the butter, shallot, and garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant and softened.
8. Stir in the chicken broth, lemon juice, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Reduce the heat to low and bring it to a gentle simmer while scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet. This adds depth to the sauce.
9. Next, stir in the heavy cream and continue to simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
10. Finally, return the chicken to the skillet, coating it in the creamy sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm. Enjoy!

Notes

Tip: For best results, use bone-in skin-on chicken thighs so the chicken is juicy and extra crispy. Of course, you can use boneless chicken thighs if that is what you prefer. They won’t take as long to cook.

Heavy cream: If you don’t have heavy cream, you can use half and half. Some have even had success with coconut milk or whole milk. I haven’t tried either.

Storing: Store leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat in the oven, preheat the oven to 350°F and place the chicken in an oven-safe dish. Cover with foil and bake until warmed through, about 15 minutes.

To reheat in the air fryer, reheat at 350°F for 3 to 4 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave for 1 minute or until hot, but we prefer using the oven or air fryer so the skin stays nice and crispy.

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