Experience the ultimate comfort food with this melt in your mouth chicken recipe. This dish promises an explosion of flavors, with tender chicken falling off the bone, coated in a rich, savory sauce. Perfectly paired with creamy mashed potatoes or fresh greens, it’s an irresistible option for any dinner table. Prepare to impress your family and friends with this simple yet delicious recipe that will leave everyone wanting more!
Ingredients
– 4 chicken thighs, skin-on and bone-in
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 45 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 chicken thigh) contains approximately:
– Calories: 320
– Protein: 25g
– Fat: 22g
– Carbohydrates: 1g
– Fiber: 0g
This nutritional information is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
3. Season both sides of the chicken with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
4. Heat olive oil and butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
5. Add the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
6. Flip the chicken and add minced garlic to the pan.
7. Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle thyme over the chicken.
8. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
9. Bake for 30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
10. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts or drumsticks instead of thighs. For a lighter option, consider using low-sodium chicken broth and substituting olive oil with a cooking spray.
Serving and Pairings
This melt in your mouth chicken pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a fresh garden salad. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t skip the searing step; it adds flavor.
- Ensure your oven is preheated for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan when searing.
- Let the chicken rest before serving to retain juices.
Helpful Tips
- Marinate the chicken overnight for extra flavor.
- Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano.
- Serve with a squeeze of lemon for a fresh finish.
- Use the pan drippings to make a quick gravy.
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken, but adjust the cooking time to avoid overcooking. Boneless chicken cooks faster, so check for doneness after 25 minutes.
What sides pair well with melt in your mouth chicken?
This dish pairs well with creamy mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or roasted vegetables. A side salad also complements the meal beautifully.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately. Just reheat before serving.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). A meat thermometer is the best tool to ensure it’s cooked properly.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this recipe is excellent for meal prep. You can portion it out into containers for easy reheating throughout the week.
Conclusion
This melt in your mouth chicken recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and flavor to your dining table. Easy to prepare yet impressive, it’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the tender, juicy chicken that simply melts in your mouth, paired with your favorite sides for a delightful meal experience.
Melt In Your Mouth Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs skin-on and bone-in
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
- Season both sides of the chicken with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
- Heat olive oil and butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
- Flip the chicken and add minced garlic to the pan.
- Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle thyme over the chicken.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
