Garlic Thyme Chicken Thighs

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a perfect blend of rich, savory flavors. The garlic cloves roast to a soft, sweet texture, and the fresh thyme adds an earthy touch to the chicken. The best part is that it’s a one-pan meal, reducing cleanup time. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying!

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on

• Salt and freshly-ground black pepper

• 20 cloves garlic (2 full heads, separated and peeled)

• 2 tablespoons flour (for gluten free, use gluten-free multi-purpose flour)

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 10 sprigs of fresh thyme leaves

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in an oven-safe braiser or skillet. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Brown the chicken thighs skin-side down for about 5 minutes, then flip and cook for another 3 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.

3. In the same pan, reduce heat to medium and add garlic. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, occasionally turning, until the garlic starts to brown.

4. Return the chicken thighs to the pan, cover, and bake for 15 minutes.

5. After baking, remove the pan from the oven. Set the chicken and garlic aside, then make the gravy by whisking flour into the remaining oil in the pan over medium heat. Gradually add chicken broth and thyme, stirring until the sauce thickens.

6. Return the chicken and garlic to the pan to warm them through. Serve and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour for the gravy.

• Herb Variation: Add rosemary or oregano for a different flavor profile.

• Vegetable Addition: Include vegetables like carrots or potatoes in the pan to cook with the chicken for a one-pan meal.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless chicken thighs?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used, but the cooking time will be shorter.

2. Can I substitute fresh thyme with dried thyme?

Yes, use ⅓ of the amount of dried thyme as a substitute for fresh thyme.

3. How do I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the seasoning.

4. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Chicken breasts can be used, but they may dry out more easily than thighs.

5. What can I serve with garlic thyme chicken?

Mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad complement this dish well.

6. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the chicken and gravy in advance, then reheat in the oven or stovetop.

7. Is there a way to make the skin crispier?

For extra crispy skin, broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes after baking.

8. How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Make sure to cook the chicken at the right temperature and avoid overcooking it.

9. Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, vegetable broth can be substituted if you prefer a non-meat option.

10. Can I use frozen chicken thighs for this recipe?

It's best to thaw frozen chicken thighs before using them in this recipe.

Conclusion

Garlic thyme chicken thighs are a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its rich, savory gravy and perfectly roasted garlic, it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family. Plus, the simple ingredients and quick preparation make it a weeknight favorite. Try this recipe for a comforting meal that’s full of flavor and warmth.