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Perfectly Seared Cast Iron Skillet Chicken Thighs

Four golden-brown, crispy skin cast iron skillet chicken thighs garnished with fresh thyme sprigs.
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Learn how to cook chicken thighs in a cast iron skillet to achieve crispy skin and juicy meat using a simple stove-to-oven method. This is an easy weeknight chicken skillet meal.

Ingredients

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  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. Pat the chicken thighs completely dry using paper towels. This step is key for crispy skin.
  3. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Rub this seasoning mix evenly over the chicken thighs, focusing on getting some under the skin if possible.
  4. Place your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat on the stovetop. Add the olive oil. Wait until the oil shimmers slightly.
  5. Carefully place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the hot skillet. Do not overcrowd the pan. Sear for 6 to 8 minutes without moving them until the skin is deep golden brown and crispy.
  6. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the butter and thyme sprigs to the skillet around the chicken. Tilt the pan and use a spoon to baste the melting butter over the chicken skin for about 1 minute.
  7. Transfer the entire cast iron skillet to the preheated oven.
  8. Roast for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit when checked with a meat thermometer in the thickest part of the thigh.
  9. Remove the skillet from the oven. Let the chicken rest in the skillet for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • For best results when searing, ensure your cast iron skillet is fully preheated before adding the oil and chicken.
  • To clean your cast iron skillet after cooking, wipe out excess grease while warm. Scrub with hot water and a stiff brush. Dry immediately on the stovetop over low heat and apply a thin layer of cooking oil for maintenance.
  • This stove to oven chicken recipe works well with bone-in breasts, but adjust the oven time based on thickness.

Nutrition

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