Simple Skillet Cooked Chicken Thighs- Easy Recipe!

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Quick, one-pan skillet chicken thighs in a creamy maple garlic sauce—easy, juicy, and perfect for weeknight dinners the whole family will love.

Skillet cooked chicken thighs- simple recipe

There’s nothing quite like the satisfying sizzle of chicken thighs hitting a hot cast iron skillet on a busy weeknight. If you’re looking for a foolproof, easy weeknight dinner recipe that delivers juicy, flavorful chicken with a creamy, slightly sweet pan sauce, then you’re going to love this Simple Skillet Cooked Chicken Thighs recipe. It’s packed with bold seasonings, a touch of maple syrup, and finishes with fresh herbs for an elegant yet cozy meal the whole family will enjoy.

Whether you’re new to cooking chicken thighs or a seasoned pro, this recipe is an easy way to bring together tender meat, a delicious sauce, and minimal cleanup. Using boneless skinless chicken thighs, the entire cooking process happens in one large skillet, meaning it’s ideal for one-pan meals, meal prep, or simply those evenings when you want maximum flavor with minimal effort. Pair it with white rice, crispy rice, green beans, or sweet potatoes, and you’ve got a balanced plate ready in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s quick and simple. The entire meal comes together in about 30 minutes, including prep time.
One-pan magic. This easy skillet chicken thighs recipe means less mess and more flavor thanks to those tasty brown bits that stick to the bottom of the pan.
Customizable. Add white wine, swap in bone-in thighs, or throw in some additional seasonings for your own twist.
Family-friendly. The subtly sweet and tangy creamy sauce is a crowd-pleaser—even picky eaters will be coming back for seconds.

ingredients in skillet chicken thigh recipe

A Breakdown of the Ingredients

Let’s talk about what makes this dish shine:

1 lb chicken thighs – You can use boneless chicken thighs or boneless skinless chicken thighs. For those who prefer crispy skin, skin-on chicken thighs are also a good option—just make sure to pat them dry with paper towels before searing.
2 tablespoons olive oil – Extra virgin olive oil is ideal for searing the chicken and helps develop that golden brown crust.
Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, pepper – This simple dry rub is the first step in infusing the chicken with flavor.
3 cloves garlic, minced – Adds rich, aromatic depth to the pan sauce.
2 tablespoons butter – Helps create a silky, creamy sauce.
1/2 cup whole milk – Adds richness and body to the sauce.
1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth – De-glazes the pan and provides savory undertones.
2 tablespoons maple syrup – Offers just the right amount of sweetness.
1 lemon, juiced – Brightens the dish and balances the richness.
1 bunch parsley, chopped – For a burst of color and fresh flavor at the end.

How to Make the Recipe

This boneless chicken thigh recipe is all about building flavor in layers:

Season the chicken: In a bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and pepper. Add the chicken and toss until the thighs are evenly coated. For best results, let the seasoned chicken thighs sit at room temperature for 15 minutes.

seasoned chicken thighs for easy skillet chicken recipe

Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place chicken in a single layer, skin side down if using skin-on chicken thighs. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. A meat thermometer is the best way to ensure perfectly juicy chicken thighs.
Remove and set aside: Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and tent with foil.
Make the sauce: In the same skillet, reduce to medium heat and add butter. Once melted, stir in minced garlic, milk, chicken broth, maple syrup, and lemon juice. Stir continuously, scraping up those flavorful pan drippings from the bottom of the pan.

sauce including garlic, chicken broth, and maple syrup for skillet chicken thighs

Return chicken to the pan: Nestle the chicken into the simmering sauce and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Garnish and serve: Top with chopped parsley and serve hot with your favorite side dishes or a simple salad.

How to Store the Recipe

This dish stores wonderfully for later:

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stove top or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
Meal prep: This is one of our favorite ways to prep ahead for busy weeks. Portion with white rice and green beans for balanced grab-and-go lunches.

Pair with Green Beans and Crispy Rice for a Balanced Meal

crispy rice made made in the oven — Crispy Rice

Roasted green beans topped with caramelized onions — Crispy Rice

Or Enjoy with these Sides for Lower Carb Options

crunchy and tangy purple cabbage slaw — Purple Cabbage Slaw with Peanut Dressing

Spaghetti squash with cheesy sauce — Purple Cabbage Slaw with Peanut Dressing

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t crowd the pan. Give the chicken space so it sears properly and the skin crisps if using skin-on chicken thighs.
Use a meat thermometer. It’s the most accurate way to check that the internal temperature has hit 165°F.
Deglaze with white wine. Want to level up the flavor? Swap a few tablespoons of chicken broth with white wine to enhance the pan sauce.
Try bone-in thighs. They take a little longer to cook but offer even more flavor and tenderness.
Don’t skip the lemon. The lemon juice is essential for cutting through the richness of the creamy sauce and balances the sweet from the maple syrup.

This simple recipe proves that a handful of pantry staples and one large skillet are all you need for a seriously satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner, a smart meal prep idea, or another addition to your collection of delicious chicken recipes, this easy skillet chicken thighs recipe is a keeper.

Ready to give it a try? Scroll down to the recipe card and get cooking—you might just discover your new go-to for weeknight dinners. And don’t forget to save this post for the next time you’re craving something comforting, flavorful, and fast.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but keep in mind that chicken breasts cook faster and can dry out. If you go this route, consider slicing them in half lengthwise and adjusting cooking times accordingly.

What if I don’t have maple syrup?

Honey or agave syrup makes a great substitute. You can also reduce the sweetener slightly for a more savory profile.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Use a plant-based milk like oat or almond and replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative. The creamy sauce will still be delicious.

What are the best sides for this recipe?

This dish pairs well with white rice, sweet potatoes, green beans, or even pasta. Don’t forget to spoon some of that luscious sauce over your sides, too!

Can I make this in a non-stick pan?

Yes, although you might not get as much browning on the chicken or flavorful brown bits for the sauce. A hot cast iron skillet or stainless steel pan will give you the best flavor.