Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs Skillet Recipe

Get ready to experience a delectable explosion of flavors with our irresistible Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs Skillet! This mouthwatering dish is the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you crave a comforting, yet easy-to-prepare meal. The combination of juicy chicken thighs, a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce, and the savory notes of Parmesan cheese will have your taste buds dancing with delight.

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Ingredients Breakdown

To create this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs Skillet masterpiece, you’ll need a few simple, yet high-quality ingredients. Let’s break them down:

• Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the star of this dish. They remain juicy and tender, even when cooked in the creamy sauce.
• Butter and Olive Oil: The perfect combination of healthy fats to sear the chicken and create a rich, velvety sauce.
• Garlic: Minced fresh garlic is the key to the dish’s signature flavor profile, adding a pungent aroma and depth of taste.
• Heavy Cream: This luscious ingredient transforms the sauce into a silky, indulgent delight.
• Chicken Broth: Helps to thin out the sauce and infuse it with even more savory chicken flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nutty, salty kick that perfectly complements the other flavors.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme elevates the dish with an aromatic Italian flair.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings to enhance the overall taste.
• Parsley: Fresh chopped parsley adds a vibrant pop of color and freshness as a garnish.

Cooking Equipment Needed

To prepare this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs Skillet, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools:

• Heavy-Duty Skillet: A large, oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan is ideal for searing the chicken and creating the creamy sauce.
• Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: For dicing the garlic and chopping the parsley.
• Tongs or Spatula: To gently handle the chicken thighs and transfer them in and out of the skillet.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurately portioning the ingredients.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Cooking the Chicken

Begin by seasoning the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust, about 4-5 minutes per side. Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Making the Creamy Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant and just starting to turn golden. Carefully pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, then whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.

Returning the Chicken to the Skillet

Add the cooked chicken thighs back to the skillet, spooning the creamy garlic sauce over the top. Reduce the heat to low and let the chicken simmer for an additional 5 minutes, ensuring it’s heated through and the flavors have melded together.

Serving Suggestions

The Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs Skillet pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes, buttery noodles, or fragrant white rice to soak up every last drop of the decadent sauce. For a lighter option, pair it with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables. Don’t forget to garnish the dish with a generous sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a vibrant finishing touch.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers of this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs Skillet, you’re in luck! The dish stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place the chicken and sauce in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, checking and stirring periodically until piping hot.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs Skillet provides approximately 450 calories, 35g of fat, 4g of carbohydrates, and 35g of protein. The heavy cream and Parmesan cheese contribute to the rich, creamy texture, while the chicken thighs offer a hearty source of lean protein. For a lighter version, you can use low-fat or non-dairy milk alternatives in place of the heavy cream.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

FAQ 1: What ingredients do I need to make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs Skillet?

To make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs Skillet, you will need the following ingredients:

• Chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless)
• Butter
• Garlic (minced)
• Heavy cream
• Chicken broth
• Italian seasoning or herbs (like thyme or parsley)
• Salt and pepper
• Optional: grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs for garnish

FAQ 2: How long does it take to prepare and cook Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs Skillet?

The total time to prepare and cook Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs Skillet is approximately 30 to 40 minutes. This includes about 10 minutes for preparation and 20 to 30 minutes for cooking. Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken thighs.

FAQ 3: Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs for this recipe?

Yes, you can use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs. However, keep in mind that chicken breasts may cook faster and can be drier than thighs. To maintain moisture, consider using boneless, skinless chicken thighs or adjusting the cooking time accordingly if you opt for chicken breasts.

FAQ 4: What can I serve with Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs Skillet?

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs Skillet pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Some popular options include mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with a fresh salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious creamy sauce.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bacon Pinwheels
• One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken Over Parmesan Pasta
• Chicken Alfredo Bombs
• Crispy Honey Butter Chicken Sandwiches

Indulge in the rich, comforting flavors of Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs Skillet and experience a new level of deliciousness in your weeknight dinner routine. Bon appétit!

Craving even more magical meals? Browse Amelia’s Pinterest boards for quick dinners, cozy bakes, and tons of flavorful inspiration.