Name: Crispy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 4 to 5 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted); 4 cloves garlic (minced); 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon sea salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper

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If you’re on the hunt for a dinner recipe that combines simplicity with robust flavor, look no further than these Crispy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs. This dish is not just about taste; it’s about creating a meal that feels special, satisfying, and utterly delicious. The marriage of the crispy skin with the buttery garlic sauce makes for an irresistible combination that will have your family coming back for seconds. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll be on your way to serving up a feast that feels gourmet without the hassle.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

What makes Crispy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs stand out is the method of infusing flavor directly into the chicken while achieving that coveted crispy skin. The combination of garlic and butter creates a savory, aromatic experience, elevating the humble chicken thigh to a new level. Unlike many chicken recipes that require frying or extensive marinating, this method allows you to achieve a restaurant-quality dish right in your home oven. Plus, using bone-in, skin-on thighs ensures moist, tender meat that stays juicy even after baking.

Shopping List

4 to 5 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon sea salt
1 teaspoon black pepper

Toolbox for This Recipe

Large mixing bowl – for combining the butter and seasonings.
Baking dish or sheet pan – to bake the chicken evenly.
Meat thermometer – to ensure the chicken is cooked to the perfect internal temperature.
Garlic press – for easily mincing garlic.
Pastry brush or spoon – to spread the garlic butter mixture over the chicken.

Stepwise Method: Crispy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is essential for achieving that crispy skin.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter. Once melted, add in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, sea salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken Thighs

Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it helps the skin crisp up beautifully in the oven. Place the thighs in the baking dish, skin side up.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken with Garlic Butter

Using a pastry brush or spoon, generously coat each chicken thigh with the garlic butter mixture. Make sure to get some of the garlic bits on each thigh for maximum flavor.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken Thighs

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Step 6: Broil for Extra Crispiness

If the skin isn’t as crispy as you’d like, switch the oven to broil and cook for an additional 2-4 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning!

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.

In-Season Flavor Ideas

Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a fragrant touch.
Chili flakes for a subtle kick of heat.
Fresh lemon juice or zest to brighten the dish.
Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top before broiling for a cheesy finish.

Problems & Prevention

Chicken skin not crispy? Ensure the chicken is patted dry before seasoning. Consider broiling for a few minutes at the end of cooking.
Chicken thighs undercooked? Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it should read 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.
Butter burning? If your oven is particularly hot, you may want to lower the temperature slightly to avoid burning the garlic.

Storage Pro Tips

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
For longer storage, freeze cooked chicken thighs in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs. Just reduce the cooking time to about 25-30 minutes, checking for doneness with a meat thermometer.

What can I serve with Crispy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs?

This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it with rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

Can I marinate the chicken in advance?

Absolutely! For enhanced flavor, marinate the chicken thighs in the garlic butter mixture for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator. Just remember to bring them to room temperature before baking.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the unsalted butter with a dairy-free alternative such as olive oil or vegan butter. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious!

One Pan, More Ideas

For a complete meal, try roasted vegetables alongside your chicken.
Pair with creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting side.
Consider a refreshing green salad to balance the richness of the chicken.

Save & Share

If you loved this recipe, be sure to save it to your favorite cooking boards and share it with friends and family! Social media is a great way to spread the love for this delicious dish. Use the hashtag #CrispyGarlicButterBakedChickenThighs to connect with others who are enjoying this recipe.

Crispy Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs are a delightful addition to your dinner rotation. With their crunchy exterior and tender, juicy interior, they are sure to impress. The ease of preparation combined with the incredible flavor makes this dish a winner every time. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or hosting friends, these chicken thighs will be a highlight of the meal. Enjoy the deliciousness!