Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Capers Recipe

Introduction

This Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs with Capers recipe combines tender, juicy chicken with a luscious, tangy sauce bursting with garlic and fresh lemon flavor. It’s a simple yet elegant dish perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients

• 6 bone-in & skin-on chicken thighs, excess skin removed
• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 10–12 cloves of garlic
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• ¼ cup fresh-squeezed lemon juice
• ¼ cup nonpareil capers

Instructions

1. Step 1: Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel. Place the chicken into a large resealable bag or bowl and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil, lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, and dried parsley. Massage the spices into the chicken until thoroughly coated. Seal and refrigerate to marinate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add 1 tablespoon olive oil. When hot, add chicken thighs skin-side down in batches (about 3 at a time). Let brown undisturbed until golden, about 3–4 minutes. Flip and cook the other side for 2–3 minutes. Transfer browned chicken to a clean plate and repeat with remaining thighs. Note: chicken will finish cooking later.
3. Step 3: Add the garlic cloves to the skillet and sauté, stirring often, until softened and golden brown, about 2–3 minutes.
4. Step 4: Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up browned bits with a wooden spoon. Let simmer 1–2 minutes. Add heavy cream and lemon juice, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally.
5. Step 5: Stir in the capers. Return the browned chicken thighs to the skillet, spooning sauce over them. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 15–20 minutes until sauce thickens slightly and chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature.
6. Step 6: Serve the chicken thighs topped with the creamy lemon garlic caper sauce alongside your favorite sides. Enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• For extra crisp skin, dry chicken thoroughly and avoid moving it while browning.
• Substitute fresh parsley for dried if available, adding it at the end to retain brightness.
• Finish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest for added citrus aroma.
• Try adding a splash of white wine when deglazing for deeper flavor.

Storage

Store leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe?

Yes, boneless thighs can be used but cooking time will be shorter. Keep an eye to avoid overcooking; about 10–15 minutes in the sauce should suffice.

What can I serve with Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.