18 Delicious Smothered Chicken Thigh Recipes for Every Occasion

Craving something cozy, flavorful, and utterly satisfying? Look no further! Our roundup of 18 Delicious Smothered Chicken Thigh Recipes is here to save your dinner routine. Whether you’re in the mood for quick weeknight meals, seasonal delights, or the ultimate comfort food, we’ve got a saucy, savory option for every occasion. Dive in and discover your next favorite dish!

Classic Southern Smothered Chicken Thighs

Classic Southern Smothered Chicken Thighs

There’s nothing quite like the comfort of tender chicken thighs smothered in a rich, savory gravy. This Southern classic is a weeknight hero that brings warmth to any table.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup heavy cream

Instructions

1. Season chicken thighs with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs, skin-side down, and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for another 5 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add sliced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
4. Sprinkle flour over the onions and garlic, stirring to combine. Gradually pour in chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
5. Return chicken thighs to the skillet, cover, and simmer on low heat for 25 minutes.
6. Stir in heavy cream and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the gravy is thickened and the chicken is cooked through.

The magic of this dish lies in the gravy’s depth of flavor, achieved by building layers of seasoning right in the skillet. It’s a testament to the power of simple ingredients coming together beautifully.

Tip: For an extra touch of Southern charm, serve these smothered thighs over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes or buttery rice.

Creamy Mushroom Smothered Chicken Thighs

Nothing says comfort food like tender chicken thighs smothered in a rich, creamy mushroom sauce. This dish is a weeknight hero that comes together with minimal fuss but delivers maximum flavor.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and cook for 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. Flip and cook for another 3 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the mushrooms and cook for 5 minutes until they start to brown. Stir in the garlic and thyme, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, skin-side up.
5. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

The magic of this dish lies in the creamy mushroom sauce that clings to every bite of the chicken, making it irresistibly rich and flavorful.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of white wine to the mushrooms before the broth.

Garlic Butter Smothered Chicken Thighs

Get ready to fall in love with these Garlic Butter Smothered Chicken Thighs, a dish that’s as comforting as it is flavorful, perfect for a cozy dinner at home.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Season the chicken thighs with salt, black pepper, and paprika on both sides.
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the chicken thighs to the skillet, skin side down, and cook for 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown. Flip the chicken and cook for another 3 minutes.
4. Pour the chicken broth into the skillet around the chicken thighs. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

The magic of this dish lies in the garlic butter sauce that forms as the chicken cooks, creating a rich and flavorful glaze that’s irresistible. Serve it over mashed potatoes or rice to soak up all that delicious sauce.

Tip: For an extra crispy skin, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.

Spicy Cajun Smothered Chicken Thighs

Get ready to spice up your dinner routine with these Spicy Cajun Smothered Chicken Thighs, a dish that packs a punch of flavor and comfort in every bite.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup heavy cream

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken thighs with salt, black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning. Place them skin-side down in the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for another 3 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir to combine, cooking for 1 minute.
3. Slowly pour in chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add remaining Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in heavy cream.
4. Return chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Transfer skillet to the oven and bake for 25 minutes until chicken is cooked through.

The magic of this dish lies in the creamy, spicy sauce that smothers the tender chicken, creating a perfect balance of heat and richness.

Tip: For an extra kick, serve with a side of jalapeño cornbread to soak up all that delicious sauce.

Cheesy Bacon Smothered Chicken Thighs

Get ready to indulge in the ultimate comfort food with these Cheesy Bacon Smothered Chicken Thighs, where juicy chicken meets crispy bacon and melted cheese in every bite.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp paprika

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside, leaving the grease in the skillet.
3. Season the chicken thighs with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
4. Add olive oil to the bacon grease in the skillet. Cook the chicken thighs for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown.
5. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish. Pour heavy cream over the chicken, then sprinkle with cooked bacon and shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

The magic of this dish lies in the creamy, cheesy sauce that envelops the chicken, making it irresistibly moist and flavorful.

Tip: For an extra crispy cheese topping, broil for the last 2 minutes of baking.

Herb Roasted Smothered Chicken Thighs

Get ready to fall in love with these Herb Roasted Smothered Chicken Thighs, where juicy meat meets a crispy, herb-infused skin that’s simply irresistible.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, salt, black pepper, rosemary, thyme, and minced garlic.
3. Rub the herb mixture all over the chicken thighs, ensuring they’re well coated.
4. Place the chicken thighs skin-side up in the prepared baking dish and pour the chicken broth around them.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the skin is golden and crispy and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

The magic of this dish lies in the way the chicken broth steams the thighs from below while the herbs create a fragrant crust on top, offering the best of both worlds in every bite.

Tip: For an extra crispy skin, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking time.

BBQ Smothered Chicken Thighs

Get ready to dive into a dish that’s all about bold flavors and tender, juicy chicken with these BBQ Smothered Chicken Thighs. Perfect for those who love a little smokiness with their supper!

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 cup your favorite BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the chicken thighs with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder on both sides.
3. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. Flip and cook for another 3 minutes.
4. Pour the BBQ sauce and water over the chicken, stirring slightly to combine the liquids.
5. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.

The magic of this dish lies in the dual cooking method—searing for that irresistible crispiness, then baking to lock in all the smoky, sweet flavors of the BBQ sauce.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, try brushing the chicken with additional BBQ sauce in the last 5 minutes of baking.

Onion Gravy Smothered Chicken Thighs

Nothing beats the comfort of tender chicken thighs smothered in a rich, savory onion gravy. This dish is a weeknight hero, turning simple ingredients into something truly special.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and cook for 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. Flip and cook for another 3 minutes, then remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring to coat. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add the Worcestershire sauce and dried thyme, then bring to a simmer.
5. Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, skin-side up, and spoon some of the gravy over them. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.
6. The magic of this dish lies in the caramelized onions melding into the gravy, creating layers of flavor that elevate the humble chicken thigh to new heights.

Tip: For an extra depth of flavor, let the onions cook until they’re deeply golden before adding the flour.

Tomato Basil Smothered Chicken Thighs

Get ready to fall in love with these Tomato Basil Smothered Chicken Thighs, a dish that combines juicy chicken with the fresh flavors of tomato and basil for a meal that’s both comforting and vibrant.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1/2 cup chicken broth

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Season the chicken thighs with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and cook for 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. Flip and cook for another 3 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes, just until they start to soften. Stir in the chopped basil and pour in the chicken broth.
5. Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, skin-side up, and transfer the skillet to the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
6. The magic of this dish lies in the way the tomatoes and basil meld together under the chicken, creating a sauce that’s bursting with flavor without overpowering the crispy skin.

Tip: For an extra burst of freshness, garnish with additional basil leaves right before serving.

Pepper Jack Smothered Chicken Thighs

Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner with these Pepper Jack Smothered Chicken Thighs, a dish that combines juicy chicken with a creamy, spicy cheese sauce for a meal that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 cup shredded Pepper Jack cheese
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup diced green onions

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a bowl, mix together 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, and 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika. Rub this mixture all over the chicken thighs.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and cook for 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. Flip the chicken and cook for another 3 minutes.
3. Remove the skillet from the heat. In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter over low heat. Stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream and 1 cup shredded Pepper Jack cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
4. Pour the cheese sauce over the chicken thighs in the skillet. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Garnish with 1/4 cup diced green onions before serving.

The magic of this dish lies in the contrast between the crispy chicken skin and the velvety cheese sauce, with just the right amount of heat from the Pepper Jack to keep things interesting.

Tip: For an extra crispy skin, pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels before seasoning and cooking.

Sweet and Sour Smothered Chicken Thighs

Get ready to fall in love with these Sweet and Sour Smothered Chicken Thighs, a dish that perfectly balances tangy and sweet flavors for a comforting meal.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then sear skin-side down for 5 minutes until golden. Flip and sear another 3 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, whisk together apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, ketchup, soy sauce, garlic powder, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, stirring to dissolve the sugar.
3. Return chicken to the skillet, skin-side up. Transfer to the oven and bake for 25 minutes, until chicken is cooked through.
4. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Remove skillet from oven and place on stove over medium heat. Stir in slurry and simmer for 2 minutes until sauce thickens.

The magic of this dish lies in the caramelized glaze that forms on the chicken, offering a sticky, finger-licking goodness that’s hard to resist.

Tip: For an extra crispy skin, broil the chicken for the last 2 minutes of baking.

Alfredo Smothered Chicken Thighs

Dive into the creamy, comforting world of Alfredo Smothered Chicken Thighs, where juicy chicken meets rich, garlicky Alfredo sauce in a dish that’s sure to become a weeknight favorite.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Season the chicken thighs with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove chicken and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream, then whisk in Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

The magic of this dish lies in the double garlic hit—minced garlic in the sauce and a sprinkle of garlic powder—creating layers of flavor that elevate the humble chicken thigh to something extraordinary.

Tip: For an extra crispy top, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.

Pesto Smothered Chicken Thighs

Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner with these Pesto Smothered Chicken Thighs, bursting with herby flavor and juicy tenderness.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1/2 cup basil pesto
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a baking dish with the olive oil.
2. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then arrange them skin-side up in the prepared dish.
3. Spread the basil pesto evenly over each chicken thigh, covering them completely.
4. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the pesto-covered chicken.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

The combination of crispy skin, melty cheese, and vibrant pesto creates a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself.

Tip: For an extra crispy top, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.

Maple Mustard Smothered Chicken Thighs

Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner with these Maple Mustard Smothered Chicken Thighs, a perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the 1/4 cup pure maple syrup, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, and 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard until well combined.
3. Season the chicken thighs with 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, and 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika.
4. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and cook for 5-6 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. Flip the chicken and cook for another 3 minutes.
5. Pour the maple mustard mixture over the chicken, ensuring each thigh is well coated. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. The glaze will thicken slightly as it cools, clinging to the chicken for a beautifully glossy finish.

The magic of this dish lies in the glaze’s transformation in the oven, where it caramelizes into a sticky, flavorful coating that’s irresistibly good.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle some fresh thyme over the chicken before baking.

Balsamic Glazed Smothered Chicken Thighs

Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner with these Balsamic Glazed Smothered Chicken Thighs, a dish that combines the rich flavors of balsamic vinegar with the comfort of perfectly cooked chicken.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and cook for 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. Flip the chicken and cook for another 3 minutes.
3. Pour the balsamic mixture over the chicken, ensuring each thigh is well coated. Add the chicken broth to the skillet and sprinkle with fresh rosemary.
4. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze has thickened.
5. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. The glaze will continue to thicken as it cools, clinging to the chicken for a perfect balance of sweet and tangy in every bite.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the skillet when serving to brighten up the dish.

Thai Peanut Smothered Chicken Thighs

Get ready to transform your weeknight dinner with these Thai Peanut Smothered Chicken Thighs, a dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tbsp chopped cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, crushed red pepper flakes, and water until smooth.
3. Place chicken thighs in the prepared baking dish and pour the peanut sauce over them, ensuring they’re fully coated.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is bubbly.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

The magic of this dish lies in the peanut sauce’s perfect balance of sweet, salty, and spicy, creating a flavor-packed glaze that makes the chicken irresistibly juicy.

Tip: For an extra crunch, sprinkle some chopped peanuts on top before serving.

Lemon Garlic Smothered Chicken Thighs

Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner with these Lemon Garlic Smothered Chicken Thighs, bursting with zesty and savory flavors that come together in one pan.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Season the chicken thighs with salt and black pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and cook for 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. Flip and cook for another 3 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet, skin-side up. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Sprinkle with lemon zest and chopped parsley before serving.

The magic of this dish lies in the crispy skin soaking up the lemony garlic sauce, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

Tip: For an extra burst of freshness, serve with a side of steamed asparagus or a crisp green salad.

Smoked Paprika Smothered Chicken Thighs

Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner with these Smoked Paprika Smothered Chicken Thighs, a dish that’s as flavorful as it is comforting.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Season the chicken thighs with 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper, and 2 teaspoons smoked paprika.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and cook for 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. Flip and cook for another 3 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the thinly sliced onion and minced garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
4. Pour in 1 cup chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring to a simmer.
5. Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, skin-side up. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 25 minutes.
6. Remove the skillet from the oven and stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream. Return to the oven for another 5 minutes.
7. Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon fresh parsley before serving.

The smoked paprika not only gives these chicken thighs a deep, smoky flavor but also creates a rich, velvety sauce that’s perfect for spooning over mashed potatoes or rice.

Tip: For an extra smoky flavor, try using a combination of sweet and hot smoked paprika.

Conclusion

We hope this roundup of 18 smothered chicken thigh recipes inspires your next meal! Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, there’s something here for everyone. Don’t forget to try your favorites, leave a comment sharing which one you loved, and pin this article to your Pinterest board for easy access. Happy cooking!

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