Name: Simple Garlic Herb Chicken for Easy, Flavorful Dinners
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (Provides juiciness and tenderness.); 1 teaspoon kosher salt (Essential for enhancing flavors.); 0.5 teaspoon cracked black pepper (Adds warmth and depth.); 0.25 cup extra virgin olive oil (Enhances flavor and helps achieve a golden crust.); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (Adds richness and creaminess.); 4 cloves garlic (minced) (Key for aromatic base.); 1 teaspoon dried oregano (Provides earthy notes.); 1 teaspoon dried thyme (Adds herbal notes.); 0.5 teaspoon paprika (Offers color and warmth.)

Walking into the kitchen, the mouthwatering scent of sizzling butter and garlic immediately takes me back to those cozy family dinners. This Simple Garlic Herb Chicken is my go-to dish for a delightful weeknight meal that feels gourmet yet comes together in a snap. With just 10 minutes of prep and a mere 20 minutes of cooking, you’ll create a savory dish that’s not only keto-friendly but also a fantastic way to impress guests or satisfy that midweek craving. Golden-brown crust? Check. Juicy, tender chicken? Double-check. Whether you serve it alongside a vibrant salad or cozy mashed potatoes, this recipe promises to transform your evenings into something truly special. Curious about how to elevate it even further? Let’s dive in!

Why is Garlic Herb Chicken a Must-Try?

Flavor Explosion: The harmonious blend of garlic and herbs infuses the chicken with irresistible flavors, making every bite a delight.
Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes, allowing you to savor gourmet quality without the fuss.
Versatile: Pair it with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes, or try it over sautéed spinach for a low-carb twist, reminiscent of a Honey Lime Chicken.
Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a guaranteed hit at family dinners, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied and asking for seconds—just like my beloved Chicken Enchiladas.
Meal Prep Dream: Leftovers store beautifully, making it a fantastic addition to your meal plan. Quick reheating preserves that savory goodness, making meals effortless throughout the week!

Simple Garlic Herb Chicken Ingredients

• Create this mouthwatering dish with these essential ingredients!

For the Chicken

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs – Thighs provide juiciness and tenderness, making them perfect for this quick recipe.
Kosher salt – Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish. Sea salt is a great alternative.
Cracked black pepper – Adds a touch of warmth and depth to the chicken. White pepper can be used if you prefer a milder kick.

For the Marinade

Extra virgin olive oil – This cooking fat enhances flavor and helps achieve a beautiful golden crust; you can substitute it with any neutral oil if desired.
Unsalted butter – Rich and creamy, butter adds luxury and enhances the garlic flavor; avoid low-fat options for the best taste.
Garlic (minced) – Fresh garlic is key for that aromatic base that elevates the dish’s overall flavor.
Dried oregano – Provides earthy notes that complement the chicken; Italian seasoning can be a quick swap if needed.
Dried thyme – Adds lovely herbal notes; feel free to use fresh thyme for an even brighter flavor.
Paprika – Offers a pop of color and subtle warmth; smoked paprika gives an extra layer of flavor if you fancy a smokier taste.

Enjoy your culinary journey with this Simple Garlic Herb Chicken recipe that’s sure to delight everyone at your table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Simple Garlic Herb Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter, 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, ½ teaspoon of cracked black pepper, and ½ teaspoon of paprika. This fragrant marinade enhances the Simple Garlic Herb Chicken with a robust flavor. Set aside to let the ingredients meld.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken
Using paper towels, pat 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs dry to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve that lovely golden crust. Then, place the chicken thighs in a large bowl or a ziplock bag and pour the prepared marinade over the chicken. Ensure each piece is evenly coated, giving a light massage if necessary to infuse the flavors deeply.

Step 3: Preheat the Skillet
Heat a 12-inch oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers, which typically takes about 2-3 minutes. Ensure the cooking temperature is sufficient to sear the chicken properly. If the pan is too hot, the garlic may burn, so a watchful eye is crucial. This step ensures the Simple Garlic Herb Chicken develops that irresistible golden-brown crust.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken
Once the skillet is hot, carefully place the marinated chicken thighs in the pan. Sear for 5-7 minutes without moving them, allowing that irresistible brown crust to form. After flipping each piece, continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes, monitoring closely until the chicken reaches a beautiful golden brown on both sides.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection
After searing, transfer the skillet to a preheated oven set to 400°F (200°C). Bake the chicken for an additional 5-8 minutes, using a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This final step ensures your Simple Garlic Herb Chicken is perfectly cooked, keeping it tender and juicy.

Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, allowing the juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness. Serve alongside your favorite sides, and savor the delightful flavors of this Simple Garlic Herb Chicken, perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.

What to Serve with Simple Garlic Herb Chicken?

Transform your weeknight dinner into a feast with complementary sides that enhance every delicious bite of this flavorful chicken.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These velvety potatoes soak up the delightful garlic butter sauce, making every forkful a comforting treat.
Roasted Asparagus: Crisp-tender asparagus adds a vibrant touch and a subtle earthiness, balancing the rich flavors of the chicken beautifully.
Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad tossed with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers provides a light, nutty contrast and adds a pop of color.
Garlic Bread: Serve warm, crusty garlic bread on the side for a mouthwatering addition, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce—pure bliss!
Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach with a dash of lemon offers a fresh and tangy element that complements the savory chicken exquisitely.
Crisp Green Salad: A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette refreshes the palate, creating a delightful counterbalance to the rich, buttery flavors.

Pair these sides with your Simple Garlic Herb Chicken for a warm and inviting meal that captivates both family and friends!

Storage Tips for Simple Garlic Herb Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover Simple Garlic Herb Chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days to maintain its juicy flavor and tenderness.
Freezer: Wrap the chicken tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe bags for easy identification.
Reheating: For the best results, reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Avoid the microwave to prevent drying out.
Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for the best texture and flavor.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing Simple Garlic Herb Chicken ahead of time is a fantastic way to save time during your busy week! You can marinate the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deeply infuse. Simply whisk together the marinade and coat the chicken, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you prefer, you can also trim and season the chicken up to 3 days ahead, just be sure to cover it well to maintain its quality. When you’re ready to cook, simply sear and bake as instructed. With this prep, your Simple Garlic Herb Chicken will be just as delicious and ready to impress, turning weeknight dinners into gourmet experiences with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Simple Garlic Herb Chicken

Pan Searing: Avoid overcrowding the pan to allow each piece to achieve a beautiful crust. If too many pieces are added at once, they will steam instead of sear.
Garlic Management: Keep a close eye on the garlic while cooking. Burning it can lead to a bitter flavor, so reduce cooking time if necessary.
Meat Thermometer Use: Invest in a meat thermometer for perfect doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe and juicy chicken.
Rest Time Matters: Letting the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking is crucial. This step ensures that the juices redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it moist.
Flavor Enhancements: For a unique twist, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or grated Parmesan cheese right before serving to elevate your Simple Garlic Herb Chicken.

Simple Garlic Herb Chicken Variations

Feel free to get creative and personalize your dish with these exciting variations that will take your Simple Garlic Herb Chicken to new heights!

Zesty Twist: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken right before serving for an invigorating burst of flavor. This brightens up the dish beautifully!
Parmesan Crust: Add grated Parmesan cheese to the chicken during the last 3 minutes of baking for a savory, cheesy finish that adds depth and richness. It’s a simple yet delicious enhancement!
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes into the marinade to introduce a delightful heat that perfectly balances the garlic and herbs.
Mustard Infusion: Mix in a tablespoon of Dijon mustard with the marinade to infuse a tangy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the savory chicken. This twist creates a mouthwatering contrast!
Honey Glaze: Drizzle honey over the chicken halfway through cooking to create a sweet glaze that complements the garlic beautifully, amplifying those flavors to new levels.
Herb Medley: Replace the oregano and thyme with fresh mixed herbs such as rosemary and basil to add a vibrant, fresh twist, inviting more complex flavors into your dish.
Cauliflower Mash Base: Serve your Simple Garlic Herb Chicken on a bed of creamy cauliflower mash for a delightful low-carb, keto-friendly alternative to the usual sides.
Savory Vegetable Medley: Bake the chicken with seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots in the skillet to create a flavorful one-pan meal, saving you time on cleanup!

For more inspiration, try pairing this chicken with a vibrant lemon-tossed salad or serve it alongside hearty dishes like Chicken Enchiladas or Herb Chicken Meatballs. Whatever version you choose, your family will love these tasty twists!

Simple Garlic Herb Chicken Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select chicken thighs for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing boneless, skinless chicken thighs, look for ones that are firm with a pink hue and minimal dark spots. Thighs should feel moist without being slimy, as this indicates freshness. I often select ones that are slightly thicker, as they tend to stay juicier during cooking.

How long can I store leftover Simple Garlic Herb Chicken in the fridge?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure to let the chicken cool completely before sealing it up—it helps maintain freshness and flavor. I recommend labeling your container with the date so you can keep track!

Can I freeze Simple Garlic Herb Chicken? If so, what’s the best way?
Absolutely! You can freeze this dish for up to 3 months. First, let the chicken cool down, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Squeeze out excess air to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What should I do if my chicken doesn’t seem to be cooking evenly?
Very! If you find that your chicken is cooking unevenly, it could be due to overcrowding the pan while searing. Ensure that each piece has enough space; this allows for proper heat circulation and even cooking. If needed, sear in batches to maintain a high temperature, ensuring a nice crust forms on all sides.

Is there a diet-friendly twist I can make to this recipe?
Definitely! If you’re looking to keep this Simple Garlic Herb Chicken keto-friendly, pair it with low-carb sides like sautéed spinach or a fresh green salad instead of carb-heavy options. You can also add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right on the chicken before serving for a zesty, refreshing lift without added carbs.

Can I feed this dish to my pets?
Check with caution! While plain, cooked chicken can be a nice treat for pets, avoid giving them any chicken that contains garlic or onion, as these are harmful to dogs and cats. Always consult your veterinarian for safe food options for your furry friends.