Crispy Chicken Thighs in Lemony Cream Sauce

Crispy Chicken Thighs in Lemony Cream Sauce is a delightful dish that brings together the comforting texture of crispy chicken thighs with the tangy, creamy flavor of a lemon-based sauce. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this recipe elevates the flavor game with the addition of crème fraîche. The dish is simple yet sophisticated, offering a twist on classic roasted chicken with the luxurious creaminess and refreshing zest of lemon. The chicken thighs are first seared to achieve a crispy exterior, then nestled into a rich and tangy sauce made with onions, garlic, lemon, thyme, and crème fraîche. This combination ensures that each bite is packed with flavor and a pleasing contrast of textures.

Crispy Chicken Thighs in Lemony Cream Sauce Ingredients

▪️ 6 chicken thighs
▪️ 2 tablespoons olive oil
▪️ Salt to taste
▪️ Pepper to taste
▪️ 1 onion, finely chopped
▪️ 3 cloves garlic, minced
▪️ 1 cup chicken broth
▪️ 1 lemon, sliced
▪️ 1 tablespoon lemon juice
▪️ 1 cup crème fraîche
▪️ Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish

How to make Crispy Chicken Thighs in Lemony Cream Sauce

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs, skin side down, until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Flip and cook for another 3 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Step 3: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Add the lemon slices and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer.

Step 5: Whisk in the crème fraîche until well combined, then return the chicken thighs to the skillet, skin side up.

Step 6: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce is thickened.

Step 7: Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs before serving.

Overview of Crispy Chicken Thighs in Lemony Cream Sauce

Category	Details
Preparation Time	15 minutes
Cooking Time	45 minutes
Servings	4
Nutritional Information	Protein: 25g, Carbohydrates: 10g, Fats: 35g
Energy	1840 kJ (440 cal)
Main Ingredients	Chicken thighs, onions, garlic, lemon, crème fraîche
Sauce Ingredients	Onions, garlic, chicken broth, lemon, crème fraîche
Cooking Method	Searing, baking
Meal Categories	Dinner, Comfort Food, Family Meals
Key Flavors	Savory, creamy, tangy
Texture	Crispy, creamy
Dietary Information	Contains dairy
Allergen Information	Contains dairy
Storage Tips	Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
Serving Suggestions	Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad

Fun Facts about Crispy Chicken Thighs in Lemony Cream Sauce

▪️ The addition of crème fraîche not only adds creaminess but also a slight tang that complements the lemon.
▪️ Chicken thighs are often preferred in recipes like this because they stay moist and flavorful.
▪️ This dish can be made even more indulgent by adding some herbs like tarragon or rosemary to the sauce.