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Crispy Garlic Butter Keto Chicken Thighs - Simple, Savory, and Satisfying

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 to 2.5 pounds total)
  • 1.5 teaspoons kosher salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or sweet paprika)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil (for searing)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

Method
 

  1. Preheat and prep: Heat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat the chicken thighs very dry with paper towels. Dry skin is key to crispy results.
  2. Season generously: In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub the seasoning all over the thighs, lifting the skin to season underneath if possible.
  3. Heat the pan: Place a large oven-safe skillet (cast iron is ideal) over medium-high heat. Add the oil and let it get hot until it shimmers.
  4. Sear skin-side down: Lay the thighs skin-side down and don’t move them for 6–8 minutes. You’re aiming for deep golden, crisp skin. Work in batches if needed to avoid crowding.
  5. Flip and finish sear: Flip the thighs and cook the flesh side for 2 minutes. This step starts the cooking process before the oven finish.
  6. Make the garlic butter: In a small saucepan or the microwave, melt the butter with minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary. Heat just until fragrant, 30–60 seconds. Stir in the lemon juice.
  7. Baste and bake: Spoon half the garlic butter over the chicken. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake 15–20 minutes, until the thickest part reaches 165°F (74°C).
  8. Baste again and rest: Remove from the oven and brush with the remaining garlic butter. Let the chicken rest 5 minutes so the juices settle.
  9. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve with lemon wedges and your favorite low-carb sides like roasted broccoli, sautéed zucchini, or a crisp salad.