Delicious Chicken Thighs with Creamy Lemon Butter Sauce

Chicken thighs have long been a favorite for their tender texture and robust flavor. This versatile recipe showcases chicken thighs in a rich, creamy lemon butter sauce that pairs perfectly with rice or roasted vegetables. The cooking time is approximately 45 minutes and serves four people.

Ingredients:

• 6 skinless, bone-in chicken thighs
• 1/2 cup (80g) unsalted butter, softened
• Zest of 3 lemons
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Set aside.
3. Melt the butter in a pan over medium heat. Once melted, add the lemon zest and stir for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add the olive oil to the pan and let it warm up briefly before adding the chicken thighs skin-side down.
5. Cook the chicken on one side for approximately 10-15 minutes or until golden brown. Flip the chicken and continue cooking until done, about another 5 minutes. Ensure that an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh registers at least 165°F (74°C).
6. Transfer the cooked chicken to a baking dish. Pour in half of the lemon butter sauce over them.
7. Cover the chicken with aluminum foil and bake it for about 20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. While the chicken is cooking, use the remaining half of the butter mixture to make a creamy sauce. Place the pan back over medium heat.
9. Add the lemon juice gradually, stirring continuously and allowing it to thicken slightly as you do so. This should take around 3-4 minutes. The sauce will eventually coat the back of a spoon when you tilt your pan lightly.
10. Once done, remove the chicken from oven and baste with the remaining sauce over each piece.
11. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips:

• The lemon butter sauce can be prepared ahead of time. Melt the butter in a bowl, whisk in the lemon zest and juice, then refrigerate it until needed.
• For extra flavor, add garlic or herbs like thyme to the pan with the chicken thighs for an additional layer of taste.
• If you prefer not to use alcohol (which is often included in traditional lemon butter sauces), replace it with more fresh lemon juice and zest. This version is still delicious but slightly less rich.

Health Benefits:

This dish provides a good source of protein, which helps in building muscle mass. The chicken thighs are also rich in vitamins like B6 which aids metabolism and supports the immune system. Butter itself contains fat which can be high in calories, but it adds flavor and richness to the dish.

Conclusion:

Chicken Thighs with Creamy Lemon Butter Sauce is a satisfying meal that can be prepared in 45 minutes and serves four people comfortably. Its creamy lemon butter sauce elevates the already rich taste of the chicken thighs, making it an excellent choice for special occasions or simply when you want to treat yourself to something delicious. Whether enjoyed alongside rice, vegetables, or with a side salad, this dish promises a delightful culinary experience.