These Stove Top Chicken Thighs are pan-seared to golden perfection and finished with a simple, flavorful sauce. Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and cooked in under 30 minutes, this is a weeknight dinner winner with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.
1tablespoonlemon juice or balsamic vinegaroptional for brightness
Fresh parsleyfor garnish (optional)
Instructions
Season the Chicken:
Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
Sear the Chicken:
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add chicken thighs in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Cook for 5–6 minutes per side, or until nicely browned and cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F).
Deglaze the Pan:
Remove the chicken and set aside. Lower the heat slightly and pour in chicken broth (or water) and lemon juice or vinegar. Scrape up any browned bits with a wooden spoon and let the sauce simmer for 1–2 minutes.
Return Chicken to Pan:
Place the chicken back into the pan, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Let it warm through for another minute.
Serve:
Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple green salad.
Notes
Serve with a side of vegetables or rice for a complete meal.