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Simple garlic butter chicken

Category: Lunch

This meal uses juicy chicken thighs soaked in melted butter, crushed garlic, olive oil, and fresh herbs. You sear the skin side to get it crispy and golden, then bake until tender. Letting the meat rest after cooking keeps it juicy and full of flavor. Fresh parsley or thyme adds a nice herbal boost that pairs well with buttery garlic flavors.

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Dana
Recipe Created By Dana
Last updated on Sun, 25 Jan 2026 20:12:22 GMT
Chicken served with herbs and spices looking delicious Save
Chicken served with herbs and spices looking delicious | chefsnaps.com

This garlic butter chicken thighs dish is comfort food at its best. Tender chicken with crispy skin bursts with garlicky herbs making it a dependable weeknight hit that feels a bit fancy.

I whipped this up on a hectic weeknight and was surprised how often everyone asked for it again at the table

Needed Ingredients

  • Chicken thighs: bone-in, skin-on for juicy meat and crisp skin When picking, go for firm skin with no spots for the best texture
  • Fresh garlic: chopped for a fresh garlicky kick Always pick fresh bulbs over pre-minced for full flavor
  • Unsalted butter: brings a rich, creamy touch and helps brown the chicken nicely
  • Olive oil: used to sear and keep butter from burning
  • Herbs: thyme or parsley add color and subtle fresh notes Choose bright, perky leaves
  • Salt and pepper: season everything right Use kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper for the best taste

Step-by-Step Cooking

Chicken thighs cooked in garlic butter.
Chicken thighs cooked in garlic butter. | chefsnaps.com

This brings me back to when busy days meant quick, tasty meals for my family. Making these chicken thighs always reminds me of cozy dinners filled with laughter and inviting smells that pulled everyone close.

How to Store

Ingredient Swaps

Great Side Ideas

A plate of chicken thighs with garlic butter.
A plate of chicken thighs with garlic butter. | chefsnaps.com

Simple stuff comes together easily here and the end result feels like it was made with a little extra heart. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s become a kitchen favorite for family meals and last-minute get-togethers.

Frequently Asked Cooking Questions

→ Which chicken thighs are best to use?

Chicken thighs with skin and bones give more flavor and keep the meat nice and juicy when you cook them.

→ Can I swap fresh herbs for something else?

Yes, parsley or thyme work great, but you can also try oregano or rosemary to mix up the taste.

→ How do I get the skin crispy?

Cook the chicken skin side down in a hot pan until it’s golden and crisp before popping it in the oven.

→ Is it important to marinate the chicken?

Yeah, letting it sit for at least 30 minutes lets the garlic, butter, and herbs soak in well.

→ How will I know the chicken is cooked?

It’s done when the inside hits 165°F (75°C) and the juice runs clear when you poke it.

Garlic butter chicken

Juicy chicken thighs with garlic, butter, and herbs make a tasty and easy meal.

Preparation Duration
10 minutes
Time to Cook
30 minutes
Overall Time
40 minutes
Recipe Created By: Dana

Type of Recipe: Lunch

Cooking Skill Level: Simple for Beginners

Cuisine Style: American

Serving Amount: 4 Number of Servings

Dietary Options: Suitable for Low-Carb Diets, Free From Gluten

Ingredients You'll Need

→ Chicken

01 4 to 6 chicken thighs with skin and bones

→ Fats and Aromatics

02 2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml)
03 4 to 6 garlic cloves, smashed and chopped
04 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (60 g), melted

→ Spices and Herbs

05 Salt and pepper to your liking
06 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or parsley, chopped fine

Detailed Preparation Steps

Step 01

Mix the melted butter, garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs in a bowl. Put the chicken in this and stick it in the fridge for at least half an hour to soak up all the taste.

Step 02

Turn your oven on to 400°F (200°C) so it’s ready to go.

Step 03

Warm an oven-friendly pan over medium-high heat. Lay the chicken thighs in with the skin down and cook till the skin gets nice and crispy, about 5 to 7 minutes. Flip them over briefly just to brown the other side.

Step 04

Slide the pan with the chicken into the hot oven. Cook uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until the inside hits 75°C and the juices run clear.

Step 05

Take the chicken out of the oven and let it chill for a few minutes so the juices spread and the meat stays tender.

Helpful Tips

  1. Marinating helps flavors get deep into the chicken and keeps it juicy.

Essential Kitchen Tools

  • Oven-proof pan
  • Measuring spoons
  • Knife and chopping board
  • Tongs

Nutrition Information (Per Portion)

Nutrition facts are provided for reference and don’t replace professional medical advice.
  • Calories: 350
  • Fat Content: 25 grams
  • Carbohydrate Amount: 2 grams
  • Protein Content: 30 grams