Print

Crispy Garlic Herb Chicken

crispy garlic herb chicken - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and easy recipe for juicy, tender chicken thighs with a perfectly crispy garlic and herb crust, ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 pounds / 900g)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, parsley), finely chopped
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crispiness. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using. Let rest at room temperature for 10-15 minutes.
  2. In a small bowl, combine minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs, and lemon zest. Set aside.
  3. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Warm until shimmering but not smoking, about 2 minutes.
  4. Place chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet. Press lightly with tongs to keep skin flat. Cook without moving for 7-8 minutes until golden and crispy.
  5. Flip the chicken over gently. Immediately sprinkle the garlic and herb mixture over the skin side. Cook the second side for 6-7 minutes.
  6. Add the butter to the pan. As it melts, tilt the pan and spoon the butter over the chicken repeatedly for 1-2 minutes to baste and keep the meat juicy.
  7. Check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If no thermometer, pierce the thickest part and ensure juices run clear.
  8. Transfer chicken to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Notes

Dry the chicken skin thoroughly before cooking to ensure crispiness. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming. Add garlic and herbs after flipping to avoid burning. Rest chicken before serving. For extra crispiness, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end, watching carefully. Fresh or fully thawed chicken is best.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy chicken, garlic herb chicken, easy chicken recipe, weeknight dinner, juicy chicken thighs, cast iron skillet chicken

Find it online: https://larameals.com/crispy-garlic-herb-chicken-recipe-easy-juicy-tender-dinner/