Looking for a dinner that’s bursting with flavor, easy to make, and loved by the whole family? These Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs are juicy, zesty, and perfectly seared to golden perfection. Whether you’re cooking for two or feeding a crowd, this dish is a guaranteed hit that brings restaurant-quality taste to your kitchen.
Ingredients for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs
To make this savory dish, you’ll need the following:
chicken:
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6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2.5 lbs)
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
the lemon garlic butter sauce:
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4 garlic cloves, minced
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1/3 cup chicken broth (or dry white wine)
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Juice of 1 large lemon (about 2–3 tablespoons)
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Zest of 1 lemon
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried thyme
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1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
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Large skillet or sauté pan (preferably oven-safe)
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Tongs
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Small mixing bowl
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Citrus zester and juicer
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Meat thermometer (optional but recommended)
How to Make Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs
1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a crispier skin. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter until melted and hot. Add the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for 5–7 minutes until the skin is deeply golden and crispy. Flip and cook for another 3–4 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside on a plate.
3: Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Deglaze the pan with chicken broth or wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, Italian seasoning, and 2 tablespoons of butter. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly reduced.
4: Combine and Cook
Return the chicken thighs to the pan, skin-side up. Spoon some sauce over each thigh. Reduce heat to low, cover with a lid, and simmer for about 10–12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
Alternatively, if using an oven-safe skillet, transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) and bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and golden on top.
5: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving. Spoon the remaining lemon garlic butter sauce over the chicken for maximum flavor.
Helpful Tips for the Best Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs
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Choose skin-on, bone-in thighs for juicier and more flavorful results. The skin crisps beautifully, and the bone helps retain moisture.
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Don’t rush the sear. A deep golden crust adds rich flavor and irresistible texture.
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Deglaze thoroughly. Scraping up those caramelized bits (called fond) adds depth to your sauce.
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Fresh lemon is key. Avoid bottled lemon juice for this recipe—fresh juice and zest bring bright, citrusy notes that elevate the dish.
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Double the sauce if you’re serving with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread. It’s too good not to enjoy every drop!
What to Serve with Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs
This dish pairs beautifully with a wide range of sides:
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Garlic mashed potatoes
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Steamed broccoli or asparagus
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Roasted baby carrots
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Lemon herb couscous
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A fresh garden salad or quinoa bowl
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving – based on 6 servings)
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Calories: 390 kcal
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Protein: 25g
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Fat: 28g
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Carbohydrates: 3g
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Fiber: 0.5g
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Sugar: 0.5g
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Sodium: 280mg
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on portion size and specific ingredients used.
Conclusion
These Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs are the perfect mix of zesty lemon, savory garlic, and buttery richness. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a dish that’s ideal for both busy weeknights and relaxed weekend meals. The combination of crispy chicken skin and tangy, velvety sauce is sure to make this a staple in your recipe rotation.
