Are you ready to whip up a delicious meal in just 20 minutes? Say goodbye to the hassle of complicated recipes and hello to our "Fast Easy Chicken Meals"! This flavorful dish features succulent chicken thighs seasoned to perfection, making it the ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner parties. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you'll be savoring a mouthwatering meal that will impress your family and friends. Trust us, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove chicken thighs from refrigerator and pat dry with paper towels to ensure crispy exterior.
- In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to create a seasoning blend.
- Evenly coat both sides of chicken thighs with the prepared seasoning mixture, pressing gently to help spices adhere.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until oil shimmers and appears slightly rippled.
- Carefully place seasoned chicken thighs into the hot skillet, skin-side down if using skin-on thighs.
- Cook chicken for approximately 6-7 minutes on first side, allowing skin to become golden brown and crispy.
- Flip chicken thighs and continue cooking for an additional 6-8 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Remove chicken from skillet and let rest on a clean cutting board for 3-5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Slice chicken and serve hot with your preferred side dishes or salad.
Tips
- Pat Dry for Crispiness: Always pat your chicken thighs dry with paper towels before seasoning. This helps achieve that perfectly crispy exterior that everyone loves.
- Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the seasoning! Make sure to coat both sides of the chicken thighs evenly with your spice blend for maximum flavor.
- Monitor the Heat: Keep an eye on the skillet heat. If the oil starts to smoke, reduce the heat slightly to prevent burning the spices and chicken.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let It Rest: After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for 3-5 minutes before slicing. This step is crucial for keeping the juices locked in, resulting in tender and juicy meat.
- Pair It Right: Serve your chicken with a fresh salad or your favorite side dishes for a well-rounded meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 110mg
