There’s something deeply comforting about a meal that’s simple, flavorful, and made entirely in one pan. Garlic Herb Butter Chicken Thighs with Asparagus is the perfect recipe to bring together rich, juicy chicken and crisp, tender asparagus, all infused with the irresistible aroma of garlic and herbs.
Picture this: a sizzling skillet of golden-brown chicken thighs, their crispy skin glistening in a luscious garlic herb butter sauce, paired with vibrant green asparagus spears cooked to perfection. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent yet is incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for your family or treating yourself to a cozy dinner, this recipe guarantees a restaurant-quality experience at home.
Why Garlic Herb Butter Chicken Thighs with Asparagus Is So Special
This dish isn’t just about flavor—it’s about ease and balance. Here’s why it’s bound to become one of your go-to recipes:
- Full of Flavor: The combination of fresh herbs, garlic, and butter gives the chicken and asparagus a rich, aromatic taste.
- One-Pan Simplicity: Everything is cooked in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
- Perfectly Balanced: Juicy chicken thighs bring protein, while asparagus adds freshness and nutrition.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: You can pair this meal with rice, mashed potatoes, or enjoy it on its own for a low-carb option.
Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the ingredients and the steps you’ll need to create this mouthwatering dish.
Ingredients for Garlic Herb Butter Chicken Thighs with Asparagus
For the Chicken Thighs
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs | 4 (about 800 g) |
Olive oil | 2 tablespoons (30 ml) |
Garlic, minced | 1 tablespoon (3 g) |
Fresh thyme leaves | 1 tablespoon (3 g) |
Fresh rosemary, chopped | 1 tablespoon (3 g) |
Salt | ½ teaspoon (3 g) |
Black pepper | ¼ teaspoon (1 g) |
Unsalted butter | 2 tablespoons (30 g) |
For the Asparagus
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Asparagus, trimmed | 1 bunch (about 500 g) |
Olive oil | 1 tablespoon (15 ml) |
Salt | ½ teaspoon (3 g) |
Black pepper | ¼ teaspoon (1 g) |
Garlic powder | ½ teaspoon (1 g) |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Garlic Herb Butter Chicken Thighs with Asparagus
1. Preparing the Chicken Thighs
Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Drying the skin ensures it will crisp up beautifully in the pan. Season both sides of the chicken with salt, black pepper, minced garlic, fresh thyme, and chopped rosemary.
2. Searing the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet. Sear them for 6–8 minutes without moving them, allowing the skin to turn golden and crispy. Flip the thighs and cook the other side for an additional 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Preparing the Garlic Herb Butter Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium-low and add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the skillet. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic, stirring for about 1 minute until fragrant. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet—this adds incredible flavor to the sauce.
4. Adding the Asparagus
Place the trimmed asparagus spears in the skillet, tossing them gently to coat in the garlic butter sauce. Season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Let the asparagus cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Combining the Chicken and Asparagus
Nestle the chicken thighs back into the skillet, placing them on top of the asparagus. Spoon some of the garlic herb butter sauce over the chicken to coat it.
6. Finishing the Dish
Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and let the dish cook on low heat for 10–12 minutes, or until the chicken thighs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the asparagus is tender but still crisp.
7. Serving Your Dish
Remove the skillet from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. Serve the chicken thighs and asparagus hot, spooning the garlic herb butter sauce over each plate for added flavor.
Tips for the Best Garlic Herb Butter Chicken Thighs with Asparagus
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and herbs for maximum flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Sear: Searing the chicken thighs locks in the juices and creates a crispy, golden skin.
- Trim the Asparagus: Cut off the woody ends of the asparagus to ensure they cook evenly and remain tender.
- Customize Your Herbs: While thyme and rosemary work beautifully, you can also try parsley, oregano, or sage.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid overcooking, use a thermometer to check that the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
Why This Recipe Works
Garlic Herb Butter Chicken Thighs with Asparagus is all about balance. The rich and juicy chicken is complemented by the fresh and slightly bitter asparagus, while the garlic herb butter sauce ties everything together with its indulgent yet aromatic flavors. Cooking everything in one skillet ensures that the flavors meld together, creating a cohesive dish that’s greater than the sum of its parts.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 410 |
Protein | 28 g |
Carbohydrates | 5 g |
Fat | 31 g |
Fiber | 2 g |
FAQs About Garlic Herb Butter Chicken Thighs with Asparagus
1. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead?
Yes, you can, but keep in mind that the skin-on thighs create a crispy texture and richer flavor. If using boneless thighs, reduce the cooking time slightly to avoid overcooking.
2. What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
Dried herbs can be used as a substitute, but fresh herbs offer a more vibrant flavor. If using dried herbs, use half the amount called for in the recipe.
3. Can I use a different vegetable instead of asparagus?
Absolutely! Green beans, zucchini, or broccoli are great alternatives. Adjust the cooking time based on the vegetable you choose.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to preserve the texture and flavor.
5. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free alternative like vegan butter.
6. Can I add potatoes or rice to make this a complete meal?
Definitely! Add small, pre-cooked potatoes or serve the dish over rice to make it more filling
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Garlic Herb Butter Chicken Thighs with Asparagus isn’t just a recipe—it’s a versatile, foolproof meal that brings flavor, simplicity, and elegance to your table. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight, a romantic dinner, or even a small gathering with friends.
Make Garlic Herb Butter Chicken Thighs with Asparagus Tonight
Now that you know how simple and delicious this dish is, it’s time to get cooking. With just one skillet, a handful of fresh ingredients, and a little bit of love, you can create a meal that’s sure to impress.
Grab your ingredients, heat up your skillet, and treat yourself to the rich, savory flavors of Garlic Herb Butter Chicken Thighs with Asparagus. Your taste buds—and your dinner guests—will thank you!
Garlic Herb Butter Chicken Thighs with Asparagus: A One-Pan Wonder for Weeknight Dinners
Ingredients
For the Chicken Thighs:
- 4 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs (about 800 g)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil 30 ml
- 1 tablespoon garlic minced (3 g)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves 3 g
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary chopped (3 g)
- ½ teaspoon salt 3 g
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper 1 g
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 30 g
For the Asparagus:
- 1 bunch asparagus trimmed (about 500 g)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil 15 ml
- ½ teaspoon salt 3 g
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper 1 g
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder 1 g
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Thighs: Pat chicken thighs dry and season with salt, pepper, minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken thighs skin-side down for 6–8 minutes until golden and crispy, then flip and cook for another 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet.
- Make the Garlic Herb Butter Sauce: Reduce heat to medium-low. Melt butter in the skillet, add garlic, and stir for 1 minute. Scrape up browned bits for flavor.
- Cook the Asparagus: Add asparagus to the skillet, toss in the garlic butter sauce, and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook for 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Combine and Cook: Return chicken to the skillet, placing it on top of the asparagus. Spoon sauce over the chicken, cover, and cook on low for 10–12 minutes until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Let rest for 5 minutes, then serve hot with garlic herb butter sauce spooned on top.