Chicken thighs in butter with lemon sauce

Chicken Thighs in Butter with Lemon Sauce

Total Preparation Time: 1 hour
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 30-35 minutes
Number of Servings: 4

Today, I invite you to discover a delicious and flavorful recipe for chicken thighs in butter with lemon sauce. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or a special meal, being easy to prepare and bringing a refined taste to the plate. We will combine the juicy texture of chicken thighs with the fresh flavors of lemon and herbs for an exceptional result. Let's get started!

Ingredients:
- 200 g soft butter, at room temperature
- Zest and juice of one large lemon
- A bunch of fresh parsley leaves, finely chopped
- 1 pinch of sweet paprika
- 4 large chicken thighs, with skin
- 1 large shallot (or red onion), thinly sliced
- 1 head of garlic, roughly chopped
- 3 sprigs of lemon thyme (or regular thyme)
- 200 ml chicken broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Preparation:

1. Preparing the flavored butter:
In a bowl, mix about two-thirds of the soft butter with the lemon zest, half of the lemon juice, chopped parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Use a spatula to combine the ingredients until you achieve a smooth and aromatic mixture.
Tip: If you want an even more intense flavor, you can add a few drops of Worcestershire sauce to the butter mixture.

2. Preparing the chicken thighs:
Gently lift the skin from each chicken thigh, being careful not to tear it completely. Insert some of the flavored butter under the skin, then pull the skin back to keep the butter inside. This technique will ensure that the chicken remains juicy and full of flavor during baking.
Tip: If you have time, it’s ideal to chill the thighs for up to a day in advance to allow the flavors to intensify.

3. Preparing the oven:
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. This is the perfect temperature to achieve a golden and crispy skin on the chicken.

4. Browning the thighs:
In a large skillet, add the remaining butter over medium heat and let it melt until it foams. Then, place the chicken thighs in the skillet, skin side down. Continuously baste the thighs with butter to help them brown evenly. This technique will not only provide a delicious crust but will also keep the meat juicy.

5. Adding the flavors:
Once the thighs are browned, add the shallot, garlic, and thyme sprigs to the skillet. Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients. This combination will create a savory sauce that will infuse the chicken with delicious flavors.

6. Baking in the oven:
Transfer the thighs to a baking dish, skin side up. Pour the sauce from the skillet over the meat and place the dish on the top rack of the oven. Let it bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and the skin turns golden and crispy.
Check: Make sure the chicken is fully cooked using a cooking thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 75 degrees Celsius.

7. Finishing the sauce:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove the dish from the oven. Put the sauce back into the skillet, add the remaining lemon juice, and bring the mixture to a boil. Use a sieve to strain the sauce, pressing firmly on the shallot and garlic to extract all the flavors.
Suggestion: You can add a splash of cream for a richer and creamier sauce.

Serving:
Serve the chicken thighs covered with the aromatic sauce, alongside gratin potatoes and a fresh summer salad. This combination will provide a perfect balance between the rich flavors of the chicken and the freshness of the vegetables.

Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: approximately 550 kcal
- Protein: 40 g
- Fat: 40 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g

Variations:
If you want to add a splash of color, try adding a few slices of bell pepper or cherry tomatoes to the skillet before transferring to the oven. Also, for a more exotic flavor, replace the paprika with curry or add some chopped nuts to the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, boneless thighs will cook faster, so adjust the baking time to about 20 minutes.

- How can I store leftovers?
The chicken thighs can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Reheat them in the oven or skillet to bring them back to life.

This recipe for chicken thighs in butter with lemon sauce is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a wonderful way to gather the family around the table. Experiment, customize, and enjoy every bite!