Lemon Butter Garlic Chicken Thighs

why make this recipe

Lemon Butter Garlic Chicken Thighs is a delightful dish that brings together vibrant flavors and comforting textures. This recipe is easy to follow and can become a favorite for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The chicken thighs are juicy and tender, thanks to the Instant Pot cooking method. The combination of lemon, garlic, and butter creates a delicious sauce that perfectly enhances the chicken’s natural flavors. It’s not just tasty; it’s also a quick recipe that fits seamlessly into your busy schedule.

This dish is perfect for families, as it can be served with various sides. Plus, the comforting aroma of garlic and lemon filling your kitchen makes it a wonderful choice for when you’re entertaining guests. When you want something quick yet impressive, Lemon Butter Garlic Chicken Thighs are the way to go.

how to make Lemon Butter Garlic Chicken Thighs

Making Lemon Butter Garlic Chicken Thighs is a straightforward process. Follow the steps carefully, and soon you will have a delicious meal ready to serve.

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon (juice and zest)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Season the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This step is important as it helps impart flavor directly to the meat.

2. Sear the Chicken: Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add the butter and let it melt. Once melted, place the chicken thighs in the pot, skin-side down. Sear them for about 5 minutes until they are golden brown. This browning adds depth to the flavor of your dish.

3. Flip the Chicken: Carefully flip the chicken thighs over and add the minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for an additional minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant without burning.

4. Add Liquid Ingredients: Pour in the chicken broth, along with the juice and zest of the lemon. The acidity of the lemon will tenderize the chicken and offer a fresh, bright taste.

5. Pressure Cook: Close the lid of the Instant Pot. Make sure the valve is set to sealing, then set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 10 minutes. This method will make the chicken incredibly tender while keeping it moist.

6. Quick Release: Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release of pressure. Be careful of the steam.

7. Rest the Chicken: After removing the chicken from the pot, let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making for even more delicious chicken.

8. Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can sauté the remaining liquid for a few minutes to reduce it. This step is optional and depends on your preference for sauce consistency.

9. Serve and Garnish: Serve the chicken thighs topped with the garlic butter sauce and garnish with fresh parsley. This not only adds visual appeal but also a fresh flavor kick!

how to serve Lemon Butter Garlic Chicken Thighs

Lemon Butter Garlic Chicken Thighs can be served in several ways. Here are a few ideas on how to make your meal memorable:

• With Sides: Pair your chicken with some classic sides like roasted vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes. The buttery lemon sauce is fantastic poured over whichever side you choose.

• Salads: You can add the chicken to a fresh garden salad for a light and healthy option. The lemon flavors would blend well with fresh greens, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette.

• Sandwiches: If you have leftover chicken, consider making sandwiches. Just slice the chicken and serve it on a toasted bun with a drizzle of the garlic butter sauce and some arugula or spinach.

• Meal Prep: These chicken thighs also work great in meal prep containers. Serve with quinoa or brown rice and your favorite veggies for a balanced meal throughout the week.

how to store Lemon Butter Garlic Chicken Thighs

Storing leftovers properly will keep your Lemon Butter Garlic Chicken Thighs fresh and delicious. Here’s how to store them:

• Refrigeration: Once cooled, place the chicken thighs along with any remaining sauce in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Freezing: If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Place the chicken thighs in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

• Reheating: To reheat, you can use the microwave or stove. If using the stove, heat the chicken and sauce in a pan over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist if necessary.

tips to make Lemon Butter Garlic Chicken Thighs

Here are some handy tips to ensure your chicken turns out perfectly every time:

• Bone-in vs. Boneless Thighs: Bone-in thighs will take longer to cook but are often juicier. Just adjust the cooking time to about 12-15 minutes in the Instant Pot if using bone-in thighs.

• Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh herbs, use them! Chopped fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary can enhance the flavor even more.

• Be Mindful of Garlic: Be careful with the minced garlic; it can burn quickly. Add it after searing the chicken and sauté for just a short time to avoid bitterness.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking. If you prefer more lemon flavor, feel free to add extra lemon juice or zest.

variation

While the classic Lemon Butter Garlic Chicken Thighs is delightful, there are plenty of variations you can try to mix things up:

• Citrus Variations: Instead of just using lemon, try adding orange or lime juice for a different citrus twist. The flavors will complement the garlic and butter beautifully.

• Spicy Kick: If you enjoy some heat, add red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix. This will give the dish a delightful kick without overpowering the main flavors.

• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs or seasoning blends. For example, a Caribbean spice mix could add exciting flavors to your dish.

• Vegetable Add-ins: You can add vegetables such as broccoli, green beans, or bell peppers to the Instant Pot along with the chicken for a one-pot meal that includes veggies.

FAQs

Can I use skinless chicken thighs for this recipe?

Yes, you can use skinless chicken thighs. Just note that they might not be as crispy on the outside since skin helps with the searing and adds fat for flavor.

Can I cook this recipe in a regular pot instead of an Instant Pot?

Absolutely! You can cook this recipe in a regular pot. Simply sear the chicken as you would in the Instant Pot but then add more chicken broth (about 1 cup) and let it simmer on low heat for around 30-40 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.

What should I do if I don’t have chicken broth?

If you don’t have chicken broth, you can use vegetable broth, beef broth, or even water in a pinch. For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine.

Can I marinate the chicken beforehand?

Yes! Marinating the chicken in lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for a few hours (or overnight) will infuse even more flavor into the meat. Just make sure to decrease the amount of salt you add later to avoid over-salting.

What should I serve with Lemon Butter Garlic Chicken Thighs?

This dish pairs well with many sides, including rice, mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. Choose whatever you prefer or what you have on hand!

With this Lemon Butter Garlic Chicken Thighs recipe, dinner is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Enjoy the delightful flavors and share the goodness with family and friends!

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