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Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs with Roasted Zucchini

Elina James
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Garlic Butter Chicken:
  • 6 bone-in or boneless chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs / 700 g)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper — to taste
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 5 cloves garlic — minced
  • ½ tsp red chili flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (or juice of half a lemon)
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
  • For the Roasted Zucchini:
  • 2 medium zucchinis — sliced into half-moons
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
  • Optional Add-ons:
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
  • Extra lemon wedges for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Preheat the Oven : Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
  • Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini : Place the zucchini slices on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle salt, pepper, and oregano (or Italian seasoning). Toss to coat evenly and spread out in a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and lightly golden.
  • Step 3: Season the Chicken : Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
  • Step 4: Sear the Chicken : Heat olive oil in a large skillet (cast-iron preferred) over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs skin-side down (if using skin-on). Sear for 5–7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C). Remove the chicken and set aside on a plate.
  • Step 5: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce : In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and let it melt, scraping up any brown bits from the pan. Add minced garlic and red chili flakes; sauté for 30–40 seconds until fragrant (don’t let it burn). Stir in lemon juice for brightness.
  • Step 6: Combine and Glaze : Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the garlic butter sauce over it. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes until everything is coated and glossy. Sprinkle with fresh parsley.
  • Step 7: Serve : Serve the garlic butter chicken hot, topped with pan sauce, alongside roasted zucchini. Add a sprinkle of Parmesan and an extra squeeze of lemon juice if desired.