Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs Recipe

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Our Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs Recipe with Green Beans is simply irresistible! This recipe is perfect for those following paleo, low-carb, or keto diets, and it's super easy to make. You just toss the chicken thighs and green beans into one skillet for quick prep, and the flavors blend together perfectly. In just 20 minutes, you'll have a delicious, nourishing and healthy dinner dish ready to enjoy on any busy weeknight.

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs Recipe

In our kitchen, we whip up a delightful Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken dish that's both convenient and bursting with flavor. This recipe is tailor-made for simplicity and satisfaction. Here's how we create this one-skillet wonder:

Preparation time: 10 minutes.    Yield: 3 servings.    Cooking time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

• 6 skinless, boneless chicken thighs
• 2 pounds (450g) green beans, trimmed
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 6 tablespoons of butter (or ghee for those following a paleo diet)
• 8 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• Juice of 1/2 lemon + lemon slices for garnish
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce (we prefer Sriracha)
• 3/4 teaspoon salt and fresh cracked black pepper
• 1/2 cup (125ml) chicken stock
• 1/2 cup fresh chopped parsley
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red chili pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

1. Begin by patting the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel to ensure proper browning.
2. In a small bowl, combine onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning generously over the chicken thighs, setting them aside to marinate while preparing the green beans.
3. Microwave the green beans in a dish with 1/2 cup of water for 8-10 minutes until nearly tender yet still crisp.
4. Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-low heat, melting 2 tablespoons of butter.
5. Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes until the skin crisps, then flip and cook for another 5-6 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Adjust heat as needed to prevent excessive browning.
6. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.
7. In the same skillet, lower the heat and melt the remaining butter. Add garlic, chopped parsley, hot sauce, red chili pepper flakes, and pre-cooked green beans. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring regularly until everything is cooked to your preference.
8. Pour in lemon juice and chicken stock, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly for a couple of minutes.
9. Push the green beans to one side of the skillet, return the chicken to the pan, and quickly reheat in the sauce. Adjust seasoning with pepper as desired.
10. Serve the Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken thighs warm, garnished with additional crushed chili pepper, fresh parsley, and lemon slices if desired.

This dish promises a delightful medley of flavors that's sure to please the palate. Enjoy!

Chicken Thighs Cooking Tips:

1. Allow chicken thighs to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking. This helps them cook more evenly.
2. Opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs as they cook faster and retain less fat. Additionally, they allow spices to penetrate deeper into the meat.
3. Season chicken just before cooking to prevent moisture loss. If you plan to marinate longer, exclude salt until just before cooking to avoid drying out the meat.
4. Enhance the flavor by adding crispy bacon to the green beans alongside the chicken.

Why Our Chicken Thighs Recipe Stands Out:

• High Protein: Chicken thighs provide a significant protein boost, aiding in satiety throughout the day.
• Flavorful: Our garlic-butter-spice blend delivers an unforgettable taste experience.
• Quick and Convenient: Ready in just 30 minutes, our recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights.
• Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly: Ideal for low-carb or keto diets with no added grains or sugars.
• Gluten-Free: Naturally free from gluten, catering to various dietary needs.
• One-Pan Wonder: Simplify cleanup with this all-in-one meal, perfect for hectic schedules.
• Versatile: Customize your dish by adjusting spice levels with hot sauce or chili flakes, or experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences.

Why You'll Love Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs

Delicious and Flavorful

The Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs are loved for their mouth-watering combination of tangy lemon, savory garlic, and rich butter. This flavor profile creates a delightful and addictive taste experience that makes this dish a favorite.

Nutrient-Dense

Chicken thighs are an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall body function. They also contain important nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins, contributing to a balanced diet.

Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly

This recipe fits well into low-carb and keto diets, as it avoids grains and added sugars. This makes it a healthy option for those looking to manage their carbohydrate intake while enjoying a satisfying meal.

Simple and Quick

With a total preparation and cooking time of just 25 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights. The one-skillet method simplifies the cooking process, reduces cleanup time, and makes it easier to enjoy a home-cooked meal even on a tight schedule.

Versatile and Adaptable

This recipe is versatile and can be easily adapted to suit various dietary preferences and needs. You can add more vegetables, switch up the herbs and spices, or even substitute chicken tenders for a quicker cooking option.

Balanced Meal

Pairing the chicken thighs with green beans adds a healthy dose of fiber, vitamins, and minerals to your meal. This combination supports a balanced diet and provides a satisfying, nutrient-rich dining experience.

By focusing on these benefits, we can appreciate how the Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs offer a delicious, nutritious, and convenient meal option for any occasion.