Garlic Chicken Thighs

Introduction

Recipe and more

Are you looking for a flavorful and easy dinner recipe? Garlic chicken thighs are the perfect choice! Packed with rich garlic flavors, these chicken thighs are tender, juicy, and absolutely delicious. This recipe is ideal for a quick weekday dinner or a special meal with family and friends. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so amazing.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Recipe and more

To prepare garlic chicken thighs, you will need the following ingredients:

Chicken thighs (6 pieces)
Garlic cloves, minced (4)
Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
Paprika (1 teaspoon)
Onion powder (1 teaspoon)
Dried thyme (1 teaspoon)
Salt and pepper to taste

These simple ingredients come together to make an incredibly savory dish that everyone will love.

Prep Time

Recipe and more

The preparation time for garlic chicken thighs is quick and effortless. You’ll need about:

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Recipe and more

Cooking garlic chicken thighs is a breeze! Here is the breakdown of cooking and overall times:

Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Yield: Serves 4-6 people

Garlic chicken thighs offer an impressive balance of taste and convenience. Whether served with a side of fresh vegetables, mashed potatoes, or rice, this recipe is bound to become a family favorite!
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Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

– Ensure the chicken thighs are pat dry with paper towels. This step helps achieve a crispier skin when cooked.
– Mince the garlic cloves finely or use a garlic press.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

– Generously season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides.

Step 3: Heat the Pan

– Place a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat.
– Add some olive oil to the pan, enough to lightly coat the bottom.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

– Once the oil is hot, place the chicken thighs in the pan skin-side down.
– Sear them for about 7–10 minutes or until golden and crispy. Avoid flipping or moving the chicken too much during this step for a perfect sear.

Step 5: Cook Garlic

– Push the chicken thighs to one side of the pan and lower the heat to medium.
– Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté it in the rendered chicken fat until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 6: Flip the Chicken

– Flip the chicken thighs over to cook the other side. Cook for an additional 7 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 7: Optional Deglazing

– For an optional step, deglaze the pan by adding a splash of chicken broth, white wine, or water. Scrape up the browned bits at the bottom of the pan for added flavor.

Step 8: Serve

– Transfer the chicken thighs to a serving platter.
– If desired, spoon the garlic and pan juices over the chicken. Serve immediately.

Step 9: Clean-Up

– Allow the pan to cool before washing to avoid damaging the surface.

Notes

Note 1: Chicken Thighs

– You can use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for the best flavor and texture. Boneless thighs are also suitable but may cook faster.

Note 2: Garlic

– Adjust the amount of garlic to your preference. Roasting or sautéing the garlic ensures a milder flavor compared to raw garlic.

Note 3: Oil

– Olive oil is recommended, but other types of oil with a high smoke point, such as avocado oil, can also be used.

Note 4: Cooking Temperature

– Keep the heat at medium to medium-high for the best balance between crispy skin and evenly cooked chicken.

Note 5: Leftovers

– Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop for the best texture.

Note 6: Seasoning Variations

– Feel free to add additional seasonings like paprika, thyme, or rosemary for a unique twist.

Note 7: Side Dishes

– Pair garlic chicken thighs with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
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Cook techniques

Pan-frying chicken thighs

Pan-frying is a great way to cook chicken thighs to perfection. Use a non-stick frying pan and heat oil before placing the chicken thighs in the pan. Cook on medium heat until both sides have a golden-brown crust.

Using garlic as a seasoning

Garlic provides an excellent flavor enhancement to chicken thighs. Mince or thinly slice garlic cloves and add them during the cooking process to infuse the meat with a rich, aromatic taste.

Deglazing the pan

Once the chicken thighs are cooked, deglaze the pan by adding a splash of liquid, like chicken stock or water. This helps lift the flavorful bits stuck to the pan and creates a light sauce to complement the meat.

Cooking chicken thighs evenly

To ensure even cooking, press the chicken thighs down gently in the pan to make even contact with the surface. Flip them at the right time and use a thermometer to confirm an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

FAQ

How do you know when chicken thighs are cooked through?

Chicken thighs are fully cooked when their internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature at the thickest part of the thigh.

Can you use bone-in chicken thighs for this recipe?

Yes, bone-in chicken thighs work well for this recipe. Adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure the meat around the bone is cooked through.

What is the best way to keep chicken thighs juicy?

To keep chicken thighs juicy, avoid overcooking and ensure they are pan-fried on medium heat until golden brown. Using the deglazing technique can also help retain moisture.

What type of oil is best for pan-frying chicken thighs?

Use oils with a high smoke point such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or sunflower oil for pan-frying chicken thighs to prevent burning.

Can garlic burn while cooking chicken thighs?

Yes, garlic can burn if cooked at high heat for too long. To avoid this, add garlic after searing the chicken thighs or lower the heat when cooking with garlic.

Conclusion

Garlic chicken thighs are a delicious and flavorful dish that’s simple to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner or a small gathering, these juicy and tender chicken thighs will definitely impress. Pair them with your favorite side dishes for a complete and satisfying meal.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Spicy Garlic Shrimp

If you loved the garlic marinade, you’ll enjoy trying it with shrimp for a seafood twist. Serve this dish with rice or pasta.

Garlic Butter Mashed Potatoes

Pair your garlic chicken thighs with creamy garlic butter mashed potatoes for a comforting and hearty meal combination.

Roasted Vegetables

Add a healthy and colorful option to the table by roasting vegetables like zucchini, carrots, and bell peppers seasoned with garlic and herbs.

Lemon Herb Couscous

For a refreshing side dish, consider a light and fluffy lemon herb couscous to complement the bold garlic flavor of the chicken thighs.

Garlic Bread

Serve toasted garlic bread on the side to add a crispy texture and extra garlic love to your meal.

Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Whip up a creamy garlic parmesan pasta that pairs perfectly with the succulent chicken thighs for a rich and flavorful combination.