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Crispy Garlic Herb Chicken Thighs

crispy garlic herb chicken thighs - featured image

This recipe delivers perfectly crispy skin and juicy, tender chicken thighs infused with garlic and fresh herbs. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 46 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 pounds / 700 grams)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper, then let them rest uncovered in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) to dry out the skin.
  2. While the chicken rests, mince the garlic and chop the fresh herbs. Combine them with olive oil in a small bowl, stirring until evenly mixed.
  3. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  4. Heat an oven-safe skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes. Add a drizzle of olive oil to coat the pan.
  5. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet, pressing gently to ensure even contact. Cook undisturbed for 6-8 minutes until the skin is deeply golden and crispy.
  6. Flip the chicken thighs over and brush the garlic herb mixture generously over the skin and sides.
  7. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear.
  8. Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Patting the chicken dry and resting it uncovered in the fridge is essential for crispy skin. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain a perfect sear. If skin isn’t crispy enough after searing, broil for 1-2 minutes watching closely to avoid burning. Rest chicken before serving to keep it juicy.

Nutrition

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