Imagine sinking your teeth into succulent, tender chicken thighs, perfectly infused with the rich aroma of garlic and herbs, all while the comforting embrace of your Dutch oven works its magic. This Dutch Oven Garlic Chicken recipe is not just a meal; it's an experience that transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering feast. With just 10 minutes of prep and a little patience, you can create a dish that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into this culinary delight that promises to impress!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 50 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the center of the oven.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve crispy skin.
- Season both sides of the chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, and dried thyme, ensuring even coverage.
- Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it shimmers and is hot but not smoking.
- Carefully place chicken thighs skin-side down in the Dutch oven, allowing them to sear for 5-6 minutes until the skin turns golden brown and crispy.
- Flip the chicken thighs and add minced garlic, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour chicken broth into the Dutch oven, making sure it comes about halfway up the sides of the chicken.
- Cover the Dutch oven with its lid and transfer to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Remove from oven and let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
- Serve hot, spooning some of the pan juices over the chicken for extra flavor.
Tips
- Ensure Crispy Skin: Patting the chicken thighs dry before seasoning is crucial for achieving that golden, crispy skin. Don’t skip this step!
- Sear for Flavor: Take your time when searing the chicken thighs. Allow them to develop a nice crust for added flavor and texture.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best taste, use fresh garlic and high-quality chicken broth. Fresh ingredients can make a significant difference in flavor.
- Check Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is cooked to the proper internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety and juiciness.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after baking helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.
- Serve with Pan Juices: Don’t forget to spoon some of the delicious pan juices over the chicken when serving. It adds an extra layer of flavor that you won’t want to miss!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 140mg
