Print

Skillet Chicken Thighs with Lemon Cream Sauce

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Juicy chicken thighs with crisp skin, finished with a bright lemon and cream sauce. Perfect for weeknights or casual dinner parties.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 pounds)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika optional)
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 small shallot, finely minced (about 2 tablespoons)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1/3 cup heavy cream
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels.
  2. In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper. Rub the seasoning evenly over the chicken thighs.
  3. Heat olive oil in a 12-inch cast iron skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
  4. Place the thighs skin-side down in the skillet without crowding. Cook undisturbed for 7 to 8 minutes until golden brown.
  5. Flip the thighs and cook for another 10 to 12 minutes until reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
  6. Transfer the cooked thighs to a plate and tent with foil to rest.
  7. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the butter, melting it before adding the minced shallot and garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute.
  8. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, adding thyme and crushed red pepper flakes. Scrape up browned bits from the pan.
  9. Lower heat to low, stir in heavy cream, and simmer for 5 to 6 minutes until thickened.
  10. Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning sauce over each piece to warm through.
  11. Remove thyme sprigs, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve hot.

Notes

For a lighter sauce, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half plus a tablespoon of butter. Ensure chicken skin is dry for optimal crispiness.

Nutrition