Chicken Thighs with Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

Chicken thighs with lemon garlic butter sauce is a dish that combines the rich, savory flavors of chicken with the bright and tangy notes of citrus to create a truly satisfying meal.

This recipe is perfect for those looking for an easy yet impressive dinner option. With minimal ingredients required and a straightforward preparation process, it’s ideal for both beginners and experienced cooks alike.

Cooking time: Approximately 30 minutes

Servings: 4-6 people

Ingredients:

1 lb (approximately) chicken thighs, bone-in or skin-on
3-4 cloves garlic, minced finely
Zest and juice of one lemon
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for pan searing (optional)

Instructions:

Start by preheating your oven or stovetop to medium heat.
Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. If you prefer, you can also lightly sear them in olive oil for added flavor before placing them into a baking dish or skillet.
In a separate bowl, combine the minced garlic, lemon zest, and juice from one lemon. Mix until well combined.
Once your chicken is seasoned and prepared, add softened butter to the same pan or skillet where you seared your chicken (if applicable).
When the butter has melted but not browned, pour in your garlic-lemon mixture. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens slightly.
Add the chicken thighs back into the pan with the sauce and allow it to simmer for about 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked through (check by inserting a meat thermometer; it should read at least 165°F).
Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh lemon zest if desired.

Tips for Success:

Ensure the chicken is well seasoned before adding to the pan. A little extra salt and pepper can make all the difference.
The sauce should be thick but not overly so; adjust as necessary by adding more lemon juice or butter depending on your preference.
For an even more robust flavor, consider marinating the chicken overnight in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, herbs, and lemon zest. This will allow flavors to penetrate deeper into the meat.

Nutritional Information:

The exact nutritional values can vary based on portion sizes but generally speaking, this dish is rich in protein with moderate fat content from both the chicken thighs and the butter used in the sauce.

Calories per serving (approximate): 300-450 calories depending upon size of portions.

Variations:

To add a bit more depth to this dish, consider incorporating some fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme during the last few minutes of cooking.
If you prefer vegetables, sauté some broccoli florets or pearl onions alongside the chicken for added color and nutritional value. This also creates a well-rounded meal complete with vitamins and minerals.
For a spicier alternative, add cayenne pepper or chili flakes when preparing the garlic-lemon mixture for the sauce.

Dining Suggestions:

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or quinoa. It also makes excellent use of leftover rice from previous meals.

Aside from being delicious on its own, this recipe can serve as the base for further experiments. You could try swapping out the lemon garlic butter sauce for different flavors like a Thai-style red curry paste or an Italian pesto sauce to explore new culinary horizons!

The versatility and ease of this dish make it a favorite among many households worldwide. Whether you’re hosting friends over, having casual weeknight dinners, or simply enjoying your own company, chicken thighs with lemon garlic butter sauce offers something special that everyone can appreciate.