One Skillet Crispy Chicken Thighs: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Chicken thighs are often praised for their rich flavor and juicy texture. Unlike chicken breasts, thighs remain tender and flavorful, even when cooked at high temperatures. This recipe is inspired by classic pan-seared chicken techniques that have been cherished for generations, offering a modern twist by utilizing a single skillet for ease and convenience. Cooking in a cast iron skillet enhances the crispy skin, making it a favorite among home chefs and food enthusiasts alike.

Ingredients

To make this delicious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (for a boneless version, see variations)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving crispy skin. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and thyme.
2. Preheat the Skillet: Heat olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Sear the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet. Sear for about 6-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Avoid moving the chicken too much to allow the skin to crisp up properly.
2. Flip and Cook: Flip the chicken thighs and cook for an additional 5 minutes on the other side.
3. Add Broth and Lemon Juice: Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet for extra flavor.

Step 3: Finish Cooking in the Oven

1. Transfer to Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
2. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Tips and Variations

Tips

• For Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs: Follow the same steps, but reduce the cooking time by a few minutes as they cook faster than bone-in thighs.
• Achieving Crispy Skin: Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken, and avoid overcrowding the pan to allow even browning.
• Flavor Boost: Add a splash of white wine or a dash of soy sauce to the broth for added depth of flavor.

Variations

• One Skillet Crispy Chicken Thighs and Rice: After searing the chicken, add 1 cup of uncooked rice and 2 cups of chicken broth to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then transfer to the oven and bake until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs and Orzo: Substitute orzo for rice, following the same method as the rice variation. Add your favorite vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for a complete one-pot meal.
• Crispy Fried Chicken Thighs: For a fried version, dredge the chicken in flour before searing and cook in a bit more oil. Finish in the oven as directed.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 300
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fat: 21g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 120mg
• Sodium: 600mg

(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.)

One Skillet Crispy Chicken Thighs are a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor, making them a must-try for anyone looking to create a delicious meal without the fuss. Whether you’re using bone-in or boneless chicken thighs, this recipe promises a crispy, juicy dish that will delight your taste buds. Give it a try, and don’t forget to experiment with the variations to find your favorite version.