Juicy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make – Italian Garlic Chicken Thighs are a weeknight dinner winner. This recipe transforms humble chicken thighs into a culinary masterpiece, packed with the vibrant flavors of Italy. Forget complicated techniques and long ingredient lists; this dish relies on simple, fresh ingredients to deliver maximum taste. The rich, savory sauce clings beautifully to the tender chicken, creating a symphony of garlic, herbs, and a touch of lemon. It's the perfect meal for a cozy night in or a casual get-together with friends and family.
Ready to elevate your chicken game? This recipe is perfect for both beginner and experienced cooks alike. The step-by-step instructions, detailed below, will guide you through every stage of creating this delicious and satisfying dish. Get ready to enjoy the aromatic and irresistible flavors of authentic Italian cooking in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Tools Needed
- Frying pan
Ingredients
- Vegetable oil
- Chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
- Black pepper
- Salt
- Dried basil
- Fresh basil
- Sliced garlic: 3-4 cloves
- Sliced white onion
- Chopped celery
- Leeks
- Chopped tomatoes (canned): 1 can
- Pesto (optional)
- Cheese (optional)
- Pine nuts (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Sear the Chicken
- Heat a touch of vegetable oil in a pan. Add chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on), season with black pepper and salt.
Step 2. Sauté Aromatics
- Cook chicken thighs on medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side, turning occasionally until nicely browned.
- Add dried basil, fresh basil, sliced garlic, sliced white onion, chopped celery, and leeks to the pan. Stir and cook for 5-6 minutes on medium heat.
Step 3. Simmer in Tomato Sauce
- Add a can of chopped tomatoes. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4. Finish and Serve
- Once the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened, stir in fresh basil (or pesto).
- Check for seasoning and adjust salt if needed. Serve and enjoy!
Read more: Sautéed White Beans with Garlic, Sage & Tomatoes: Easy Side Dish Recipe
Tips
- Chicken thighs are preferred for their moistness and succulence.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 350-450 per serving
- Fat: 20-30g
- Carbs: 10-15g
- Protein: 25-35g
FAQs
1. Can I use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs instead of boneless, skinless?
Absolutely! Bone-in, skin-on thighs will result in a richer, more flavorful dish. Just adjust the cooking time as needed; they'll take longer to cook through.
2. What can I serve with Italian Garlic Chicken Thighs?
These chicken thighs pair wonderfully with pasta, roasted vegetables (like broccoli or asparagus), a simple salad, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
This simple Italian Garlic Chicken Thighs recipe delivers big on flavor without sacrificing ease. From weeknight dinners to casual gatherings, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the delicious results of your culinary efforts!