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Lemon Butter Chicken Thighs are a delightful dish that beautifully combines the zesty brightness of lemon with the rich creaminess of butter. This recipe transforms simple chicken thighs into a gourmet meal that’s sure to impress family and friends. The vibrant flavors create an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen, making it a perfect choice for any occasion.

Lemon Butter Chicken Thighs

A delicious chicken dish cooked in a lemon butter sauce.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 4.0 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 0.25 cup unsalted butter
  • 3.0 cloves garlic
  • 2.0 large lemons
  • 1.0 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1.0 teaspoon paprika
  • 1.0 cup chicken broth
  • 1.0 tablespoon olive oil
  • 0.0 to taste salt
  • 0.0 to taste pepper
  • 0.0 for garnish fresh parsley

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and paprika.
  • Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet and sear for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Flip the thighs over and sear the other side for another 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  • Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the lemon zest and juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet for added flavor.
  • Add Broth and Herbs: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the thyme and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Allow it to simmer for about 2-3 minutes.
  • Return Chicken to Skillet: Nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the pan skin-side up. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
  • Finish the Sauce: Once the chicken is done, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Meanwhile, stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter into the sauce until melted and creamy.
  • Serve: Plate the chicken thighs and drizzle the lemon butter sauce over them. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
  • Enjoy Your Meal: Serve with your favorite sides, such as garlic mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a crisp salad!

Notes

Can be served with garlic mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables.
Keyword butter, chicken, lemon