Classic Simple Skillet Chicken Thigh Recipe
This classic skillet chicken thigh recipe is perfect for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner. It features crispy-skinned chicken thighs cooked in a savory pan sauce with garlic and lemon.
Equipment
- oven-safe skillet
- wooden spoon
Ingredients
Main
- 4-6 chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 3-4 cloves Garlic minced
- 1/2 cup Chicken Broth
- 1/2 Lemon juiced
- 1 teaspoon Dried Herbs
- 1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
- Salt to taste
- Black Pepper to taste
- Fresh Parsley or Chives chopped (optional)
Instructions
Cooking
- Pat chicken thighs dry and season generously with salt, pepper, dried herbs, and smoked paprika.
- Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, then sear chicken thighs skin-side down for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Remove chicken, reduce heat to medium, and sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add chicken broth and lemon juice to the skillet, scraping up browned bits, and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Return chicken to the skillet, nestle into the sauce, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired, and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For extra crispy skin, place chicken under the broiler for a few minutes after simmering. Adjust cooking time based on whether you use bone-in or boneless chicken thighs.