Introduction
Chicken thighs are a delicious and versatile choice for a hearty meal. This recipe showcases the rich flavors of tender chicken thighs, enhanced by a zesty lemon-dill sauce. Perfect for dinner any day of the week, this dish is straightforward to prepare and guarantees a mouthwatering outcome.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
5½ tablespoons all-purpose flour, divided
1 tablespoon canola oil
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 cup chicken stock
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Enjoy this delectable chicken dish, perfect for both casual family dinners and more formal gatherings. With its crispy coating and flavorful sauce, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken thighs with 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Dredge the chicken in 4 tablespoons of flour until evenly coated.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large cast iron skillet, heat the canola oil and butter over medium heat. Working in batches if necessary, add the chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F, about 4-5 minutes per side. Once cooked, set the chicken aside and reduce the heat to medium-low.
Step 3: Create the Roux
Whisk the remaining 1½ tablespoons of flour into the skillet and cook until lightly browned, about 1 minute.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Gradually whisk in the chicken stock and lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is reduced and slightly thickened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the chopped dill and season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, coating it with the sauce. Serve immediately.
Notes
Ensure that chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety. Adjust seasoning according to personal taste preferences. Fresh dill can be substituted with dried dill if fresh is not available, but use a smaller amount. Use low-sodium chicken stock for a healthier option. If desired, serve over rice or with a side of vegetables for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Seasoning the Chicken
Properly season the chicken thighs with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. This enhances the flavor and ensures a well-seasoned dish.
Dredging in Flour
Dredge the seasoned chicken thighs in all-purpose flour. This step helps create a golden crust when frying and thickens the sauce later.
Pan-Frying
Heat canola oil and unsalted butter in a cast iron skillet. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to maintain even cooking and achieve a golden-brown exterior.
Making a Roux
After cooking the chicken, whisk the remaining flour into the skillet, allowing it to cook until lightly browned. This forms a roux that helps thicken the sauce.
Deglazing the Pan
Gradually whisk in chicken stock and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This adds depth of flavor to the sauce.
Simmering the Sauce
Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce to a simmer. Stir occasionally to ensure the sauce thickens nicely and doesn’t stick to the bottom.
Coating the Chicken
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, allowing it to soak in the flavorful sauce before serving. This final step ensures the chicken is moist and well-flavored.
FAQ
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but they may cook faster and require monitoring for doneness.
What if I don’t have fresh dill?
If fresh dill is unavailable, dried dill can be used, but reduce the amount to about one-third.
How can I thicken the sauce more?
If a thicker sauce is desired, you can add more flour to the roux or allow it to simmer longer to reduce further.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Reheat gently before serving, adding a little water or stock to adjust the consistency if needed.
What should I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad to complement the flavors.
Conclusion
This dish of golden-brown chicken thighs, enhanced by a zesty lemon-dill sauce, creates a flavorful and satisfying meal. The combination of tender chicken and a rich, well-seasoned sauce offers a delightful balance of textures and tastes, sure to please any palate. Whether served over rice, with a side of vegetables, or accompanied by crusty bread, this recipe is versatile and perfect for any occasion.
More recipes suggestions and combination
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