Garlic Thyme Chicken Thighs: A Flavorful Delight
Indulge in the savory delight of Garlic Thyme Chicken Thighs, a mouthwatering dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic, aromatic thyme, and tender chicken thighs. This recipe is perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions, offering a comforting and satisfying meal that will please the whole family. Let’s dive into how to create this culinary masterpiece step by step!
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6-8 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 20 cloves of garlic (2 full heads), separated and peeled
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for gluten-free option, use gluten-free multi-purpose flour)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the Chicken Thighs:
- Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Sear the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Cook the Garlic:
- In the same skillet, add the peeled garlic cloves and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until lightly browned and fragrant.
5. Make the Sauce:
- Sprinkle the flour over the garlic and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until slightly thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Return Chicken to Skillet:
- Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, skin-side up, nestling them among the garlic cloves.
7. Add Thyme:
- Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves over the chicken and garlic.
8. Bake:
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
9. Serve:
- Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add White Wine: For an extra depth of flavor, deglaze the skillet with a splash of white wine before adding the chicken broth.
- Creamy Sauce: For a creamy garlic thyme sauce, stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half after the chicken broth has thickened.
- Herb Substitutions: If fresh thyme is not available, you can substitute dried thyme or other herbs such as rosemary or oregano.
Keto and Low-Carb Version:
- Replace Flour: Instead of all-purpose flour, use a low-carb thickener such as xanthan gum or almond flour to achieve a similar consistency for the sauce.
- Adjust Garlic: While garlic is naturally low in carbs, you can reduce the number of garlic cloves if desired to further reduce the carb content.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this recipe?
- Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used if preferred. However, the skin-on thighs add extra flavor and help keep the meat moist during cooking.
- How do I store leftover garlic thyme chicken thighs?
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven before serving.
- Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
- Yes, bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts can be used as a substitute for chicken thighs. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Elevate your dinner table with the irresistible aroma and flavors of Garlic Thyme Chicken Thighs. This simple yet elegant dish is sure to impress with its tender chicken, caramelized garlic, and fragrant thyme. Whether enjoyed as a cozy weeknight meal or served to guests on special occasions, these chicken thighs are bound to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Give them a try and savor the culinary magic!
Experience the culinary bliss of Garlic Thyme Chicken Thighs, a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, caramelized garlic, and aromatic thyme for a truly unforgettable meal. With its simple preparation and exquisite taste, this recipe is sure to become a staple on your dinner table. Let’s explore how to make this delicious dish and answer some common questions along the way
