Description
Deliciously crispy chicken thighs served with tender asparagus, infused with garlic and fresh lemon.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (preferably fresh)
- 1 bunch asparagus (firm, bright green spears)
- 3 cloves garlic (thinly sliced)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (for searing and sautéing)
- 1 each lemon (for juice or zest)
- to taste salt and freshly ground pepper (for seasoning)
- a few sprigs fresh herbs (optional) (thyme or parsley)
Instructions
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Let them rest at room temperature for about 10 minutes to promote even searing.
- Heat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, then add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, swirling to coat the pan evenly.
- Place the chicken thighs skin-side down into the hot skillet. Cook undisturbed for about 6-8 minutes, until the skin is deep golden and crispy. You should hear a gentle sizzle and see the skin turn a rich brown.
- Flip the chicken thighs using tongs and cook the other side for another 8-10 minutes, adjusting the heat if necessary to prevent burning. Check that the skin remains crispy and golden.
- While the chicken cooks, trim the tough ends from the asparagus and cut thicker spears in half lengthwise for even cooking. Add the asparagus to the skillet in the last 3 minutes of cooking, tossing gently to coat with the rendered fat.
- Add thinly sliced garlic to the skillet during the last 30 seconds of cooking, tossing to release its fragrant aroma without burning. You’ll smell the garlic turning fragrant and slightly nutty.
- Check the chicken’s internal temperature; it should reach 74°C/165°F, and the juices should run clear. The asparagus should be tender yet still slightly crisp.
- Remove the skillet from heat and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken and asparagus. Let rest for 3 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute and the skin to stay crispy.
- Garnish with chopped fresh herbs if desired, then serve the chicken thighs with the vibrant asparagus on the side, enjoying the crispy skin and bright flavors.
Notes
- Serve immediately for the best texture.
- Customize herbs based on availability or preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 thigh with asparagus
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 100mg