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Creamy Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs Recipe Easy White Wine Butter Sauce

creamy lemon herb chicken thighs - featured image

A quick and easy creamy lemon herb chicken thighs recipe featuring a silky white wine butter sauce that is tangy, rich, and comforting without being heavy.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3/4 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides. (5 minutes)
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Heat until shimmering but not smoking. (2 minutes)
  3. Place chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet without crowding. Press down lightly with tongs to prevent curling. Cook until skin is golden brown and crisp, about 6-8 minutes. Flip and cook the other side for 4-5 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside. (15 minutes)
  4. Lower heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté until fragrant but not browned, about 1 minute. (2 minutes)
  5. Pour in white wine, scraping up browned bits from the pan bottom. Let the wine reduce by half, about 3-4 minutes. (5 minutes)
  6. Stir in chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Bring to a simmer. (2 minutes)
  7. Return chicken thighs to the pan, skin side up. Sprinkle with chopped thyme and parsley. Cover and simmer gently for 10-12 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). (12 minutes)
  8. Remove chicken to a plate and tent with foil. Stir in heavy cream (if using) to the sauce and simmer 1-2 minutes to thicken slightly. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. (3 minutes)
  9. Serve chicken thighs topped with the lemon herb butter sauce and garnish with extra fresh parsley if desired. (2 minutes)

Notes

Dry the chicken thoroughly before searing to ensure crispy skin. Use room temperature chicken for even cooking. Choose a dry white wine you enjoy drinking for best flavor. If sauce is too thin, simmer uncovered longer; if too thick, add broth or water. For dairy-free, substitute butter with vegan butter or olive oil and omit cream.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken thighs, creamy lemon herb chicken, white wine butter sauce, easy chicken recipe, weeknight dinner, comfort food