Keto Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Thighs
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin.
- Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken Thighs
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Once hot, add the chicken thighs, skin side down.
- Sear the chicken for 5-7 minutes, until the skin is golden and crispy. Flip the chicken over and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter
- In the same skillet, push the chicken thighs to one side.
- Add the butter to the empty space in the skillet and melt it over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
- Once the garlic butter is ready, spoon the butter and garlic mixture over the chicken thighs.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
Step 5: Serve
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges, if desired.
Tips for Success
- Crispy Skin: Pat the chicken dry before cooking to ensure a crispy skin.
- Oven-Safe Skillet: Using an oven-safe skillet, like cast iron, allows you to sear and bake the chicken in one pan for easy cleanup.
- Check for Doneness: Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
Variations
- Herbed Butter: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the garlic butter for an extra herbaceous flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the garlic butter for a spicy twist.
- Mushroom Sauce: After removing the chicken from the skillet, sauté some sliced mushrooms in the garlic butter to make a savory sauce.
Why You’ll Love Keto Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs
- Keto-Friendly: Perfect for a low-carb, high-fat keto diet.
- Flavorful and Juicy: The garlic butter keeps the chicken thighs moist and full of flavor.
- Easy One-Pan Meal: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in one skillet.
Enjoy your keto garlic butter chicken thighs! 🍗🧄
