Garlic Butter Roasted Chicken Thighs with Charred Lemon Salsa Verde + Asparagus.

Published: July 29, 2025

by Ezra

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, you’ll have this dish ready in no time.
Flavorful Experience: The garlic butter enhances the chicken’s richness, while the charred lemon salsa adds brightness.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a special gathering, this recipe fits all.
Healthy and Satisfying: Packed with protein and fresh herbs, it’s both nutritious and filling.
Versatile Pairing: Serve with a side of asparagus or over rice for a complete meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your tools to make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Cast iron skillet
Mixing bowl
Basting brush
Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Cast iron skillet: Ideal for achieving that crispy skin while retaining heat evenly.
Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
Basting brush: Perfect for applying garlic butter evenly over the chicken thighs.
Knife and cutting board: Necessary for chopping herbs and preparing ingredients efficiently.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your Garlic Butter Roasted Chicken Thighs with Charred Lemon Salsa Verde + Asparagus:

For the Chicken Thighs

8 skin-on (bone-in) chicken thighs
6 tablespoons butter (softened)
2 cloves garlic (roughly chopped + more for roasting if desired)
1/2 cup fresh basil (chopped)
1/2 cup parmesan cheese (grated)
1/3 cup olive oil + 2 tablespoons olive oil
Zest from 2 lemons
1 tablespoon each of dried thyme, parsley, and oregano
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Salt (to taste)

For the Asparagus and Salsa Verde

1 bunch asparagus
1 lemon (cut into 1/2-inch slices and seeded)
1/2 cup + 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1/3 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
1/3 cup fresh oregano (chopped)
1/3 cup fresh basil (chopped)
2 cloves garlic (chopped)
1 anchovy fillet
1 tablespoon chopped drained capers
1 teaspoon kosher salt

How to Make Garlic Butter Roasted Chicken Thighs with Charred Lemon Salsa Verde + Asparagus

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your chicken will get that delicious crispy skin you crave.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture

In a mixing bowl:
* Combine softened butter, chopped garlic, basil, parmesan cheese, olive oil, lemon zest, thyme, parsley, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, and salt.
* Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Season the Chicken Thighs

Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
Arrange them in a cast iron skillet or on a baking sheet.
Generously spoon the garlic butter mixture over each thigh.

Step 4: Roast the Chicken Thighs

Place the skillet in the preheated oven.
Roast for about 30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Prepare Asparagus

While the chicken is roasting:
* Trim the ends off your asparagus.
* Toss them in olive oil and season with salt.

Step 6: Add Asparagus to Roast

After 30 minutes:
* Push chicken thighs slightly aside in the skillet.
* Place asparagus around them in the same skillet.

Step 7: Char Lemon Slices

Add lemon slices to the skillet during the last 10 minutes of roasting. This will give them a nice charred flavor that complements your dish beautifully.

Step 8: Make Salsa Verde

In a bowl:
* Combine remaining olive oil, parsley, oregano, basil, chopped garlic, anchovy fillet, capers, and kosher salt.
* Mix well to create your vibrant salsa verde.

Step 9: Serve

Once everything is done:
* Plate your crispy chicken thighs alongside roasted asparagus.
* Drizzle with charred lemon salsa verde before serving.

Enjoy your flavorful feast!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Roasted Chicken Thighs with Charred Lemon Salsa Verde + Asparagus.

Garlic Butter Roasted Chicken Thighs with Charred Lemon Salsa Verde + Asparagus is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to complement this flavorful meal.

Plated with Fresh Greens

Serve the chicken thighs on a bed of mixed greens for a fresh and vibrant presentation. The greens will balance the richness of the butter sauce.

With Crusty Bread

Pair the dish with slices of crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter and salsa verde. This adds texture and makes for a hearty meal.

Accompanied by Rice

Serve over a bed of fluffy rice, allowing the flavors of the garlic butter to infuse into every bite. A lemon-infused rice would pair especially well.

Topped with Avocado

Add sliced avocado on top for creaminess and extra healthy fats. This addition enhances both flavor and nutrition.

With Roasted Vegetables

Place assorted roasted vegetables alongside the chicken for a complete meal. The charred veggies will add depth to your plate.

Drizzled with Extra Salsa Verde

For those who love bold flavors, offer extra charred lemon salsa verde on the side for drizzling or dipping. This boosts the taste experience.

How to Perfect Garlic Butter Roasted Chicken Thighs with Charred Lemon Salsa Verde + Asparagus.

To achieve perfection with Garlic Butter Roasted Chicken Thighs, follow these essential tips that will elevate your cooking game.

Use high-quality ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs, good quality olive oil, and organic chicken thighs. This makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
Ensure proper seasoning: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper! Season each layer while cooking to build depth in flavor throughout the dish.
Let the chicken rest: Allowing the chicken thighs to rest after cooking helps retain their juices, resulting in moist meat when served.
Experiment with herbs: Feel free to mix different herbs like rosemary or dill along with basil, thyme, and parsley for a unique twist on flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Roasted Chicken Thighs with Charred Lemon Salsa Verde + Asparagus.

When serving Garlic Butter Roasted Chicken Thighs, consider these delicious side dishes that complement its rich flavors perfectly.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting base that pairs wonderfully with chicken.
Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition without overshadowing the main dish’s flavors.
Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad tossed with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers brings a lightness that balances out the richness of the chicken.
Sweet Potato Fries: Baked sweet potato fries offer a crispy texture and natural sweetness that contrasts beautifully with savory chicken thighs.
Caesar Salad: The classic Caesar salad brings crunchy romaine lettuce tossed in creamy dressing, making it an excellent side choice.
Couscous Pilaf: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs and spices provides an aromatic side that complements the garlic butter sauce delightfully.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness, balancing out the richness of the roasted chicken thighs.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet grilled corn brings summer vibes and pairs perfectly alongside any roasted meat dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Garlic Butter Roasted Chicken Thighs with Charred Lemon Salsa Verde + Asparagus, it’s easy to overlook some important details. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

Skipping the marination – Not allowing the chicken to marinate long enough can result in less flavor. Aim for at least 30 minutes for best results.
Using cold butter – Cold butter won’t blend well with garlic and herbs. Always use softened butter for a smooth mixture.
Overcrowding the pan – Overcrowding can cause uneven cooking. Make sure to leave space between thighs for proper roasting.
Neglecting the asparagus – Cooking asparagus too long can make it mushy. Add it halfway through the cooking time for perfect tenderness.
Ignoring internal temperature – Not checking the chicken’s internal temperature can result in undercooked meat. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
Garlic Butter Roasted Chicken Thighs with Charred Lemon Salsa Verde + Asparagus will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Garlic Butter Roasted Chicken Thighs with Charred Lemon Salsa Verde + Asparagus

Place cooled chicken and asparagus in freezer-safe containers or bags.
This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Garlic Butter Roasted Chicken Thighs with Charred Lemon Salsa Verde + Asparagus

Oven – Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish and cover with foil; heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave – Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes until hot, checking frequently.
Stovetop – Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little olive oil, and warm chicken and asparagus until heated through, around 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Garlic Butter Roasted Chicken Thighs with Charred Lemon Salsa Verde + Asparagus.

Can I use boneless chicken thighs?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs will work, but adjust cooking time as they may cook faster than bone-in thighs.

How do I make charred lemon salsa verde?

To make charred lemon salsa verde, grill lemon slices until charred, then blend them with fresh herbs, garlic, anchovy fillet, capers, and olive oil.

What sides pair well with this recipe?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice pilaf or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out herbs or add different vegetables based on your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Roasted Chicken Thighs with Charred Lemon Salsa Verde + Asparagus is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the herbs used. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress family and friends!

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