Simple Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs

Name: Simple Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on; 4 tablespoons butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; Chopped parsley, for garnish; Lemon wedges, optional

Highlighted under: Everyday Kitchen

I absolutely love whipping up these Simple Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs for a weeknight dinner. The juicy chicken thighs cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce are incredibly satisfying and bursting with flavor. Using just a handful of ingredients that I always have on hand, I can create a dish that feels indulgent without the fuss. Whether served with rice or a fresh salad, this recipe has quickly become one of my go-to meals. I love how it elevates a simple ingredient into something truly special.

Created by

Rhiannon Sutherland

Last updated on 2026-02-01T18:19:36.447Z

When I first tried making garlic butter chicken thighs, I couldn't believe how flavorful and juicy they turned out. It was a culinary revelation for me! The combination of the garlic and butter creates a luscious sauce that clings beautifully to the chicken, infusing every bite with rich flavors. I've paired this with a variety of sides, but my favorite is a simple green salad to balance the richness.

One tip I learned along the way is to allow the chicken to rest after cooking. This step is crucial because it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every piece is tender and bursting with flavor. Don't skip this step!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich garlic flavor that's perfectly balanced with butter
Succulent chicken thighs that stay juicy every time
Quick and easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze

      

Mastering the Cooking Technique

The key to achieving beautifully crispy skin on the chicken thighs lies in the initial searing. Start by ensuring your skillet is hot before you add the butter. A well-heated pan allows the skin to render its fat quickly, leading to that golden-brown texture you’re aiming for. By cooking the thighs skin-side down for those first crucial 5-7 minutes, you’re not just creating a flavorful crust but also locking in moisture for juicy chicken throughout the cooking process.

When flipping the chicken, be gentle to avoid tearing the skin. You want to maintain that crispy surface while allowing the meat to brown on the other side. After adding the garlic and remaining butter, keep the heat at a medium-low setting to prevent the garlic from burning. If you notice it browning too quickly, lower the heat further. It's better to cook the chicken a little longer at a lower temperature than to risk bitter garlic flavors.

Enhancing Flavors and Serving Suggestions

While the garlic and butter infuse the chicken with rich flavors, consider adding a splash of white wine or chicken broth for added depth. When you add liquid after flipping the chicken, it helps deglaze the skillet, lifting those delicious browned bits that contribute to an even more flavorful sauce. This technique elevates the dish and provides a fragrant base that can be poured over the thighs when serving.

For a vibrant complement, serve the chicken thighs with a fresh side salad featuring seasonal greens, tomatoes, or sliced cucumbers, lightly dressed with olive oil and lemon. Alternatively, pairing the dish with fluffy rice or a creamy polenta will soak up any remaining sauce, creating a harmonious plate. A squeeze of fresh lemon over the top right before serving can brighten the dish and enhance the garlic flavors beautifully.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
4 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For Serving

Chopped parsley, for garnish
Lemon wedges, optional

Make sure to have all ingredients prepped before you start cooking for the best experience.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken thighs on both sides with salt and pepper.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the seasoned chicken thighs, skin-side down, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is crispy and browned.

Add Garlic and Remaining Butter

Flip the chicken thighs and add the minced garlic and the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Continue cooking for another 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Rest and Serve

Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes. Serve garnished with chopped parsley and lemon wedges if desired.

This dish pairs wonderfully with vegetables or rice to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic for a little heat.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to lighten this recipe, feel free to use skinless chicken thighs or even chicken breasts. Just be aware that cooking times will change; breasts typically take about 20 minutes to reach the same internal temperature. If using skinless meat, consider adding a little more butter or olive oil to ensure moisture is retained during cooking.

Garlic lovers may opt for roasted garlic instead of minced, which provides a sweeter, mellower flavor. Simply roast a whole head of garlic until soft and then squeeze the cloves into the pan after flipping the chicken. If fresh garlic isn’t available, garlic powder can work in a pinch—just reduce the amount to about 1 teaspoon, as it's more concentrated in flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This garlic butter chicken cooks up quickly, but if you desire a longer marinating time, consider seasoning the chicken thighs with salt and pepper (or your favorite spice blend) a few hours ahead or overnight in the refrigerator. This helps intensify the flavors and creates even juicier poultry by allowing the seasoning to penetrate the meat.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying out the chicken. You can also freeze cooked chicken thighs; wrap individual thighs tightly before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to three months.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use boneless chicken thighs?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used, but adjust the cooking time to ensure they're cooked through.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This chicken pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or a light salad.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken in advance and store it in the fridge, then simply reheat it in a skillet before serving.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store cooked chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.