There’s something incredibly comforting about cooking chicken on a cast iron skillet. It’s like a warm hug for your taste buds! The moment you hear that sizzle as the chicken hits the hot skillet, you know you’re in for a treat. The beauty of this chicken on cast iron skillet recipe lies in its ability to achieve perfectly crispy skin while keeping the meat juicy and tender. Plus, the cast iron retains heat beautifully, allowing for even cooking and that delightful golden brown color we all crave. Trust me, once you try this method, you’ll never look back! Let’s dive into the deliciousness, shall we?
Ingredients List
For this mouthwatering chicken on cast iron skillet recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients, all measured out for your convenience:
- 4 chicken thighs, skin-on, bone-in – This cut is perfect for retaining moisture and achieving that crispy skin.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – Just enough to help crisp up the skin and prevent sticking.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Essential for enhancing flavor and drawing out the natural juices.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – A touch of heat to balance the dish.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – For that delightful aroma and savory flavor.
- 1 teaspoon paprika – It adds not only color but also a subtle smokiness.
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped – Fresh herbs elevate the dish, giving it a beautiful fragrance.
- 1 lemon, sliced – These slices will infuse a bright, zesty flavor as they cook.
Make sure to gather everything before you start cooking, as it makes the process so much smoother. Trust me, a little prep goes a long way in the kitchen!
How to Prepare Instructions
Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create the most delicious chicken on cast iron skillet recipe:
- Preheat your skillet: Start by preheating your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. You want it nice and hot to achieve that perfect sear.
- Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This step is crucial! Dry skin equals crispy skin, so don’t skip it!
- Season: Generously season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; it really makes a difference in flavor!
- Add olive oil: Pour 2 tablespoons of olive oil into the hot skillet. Let it heat until it shimmers—this indicates it’s ready for the chicken.
- Place the chicken in the skillet: Carefully place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet. You should hear an immediate sizzle—this is music to my ears!
- Cook the chicken: Let the chicken cook for about 7-10 minutes without moving it. This allows the skin to get beautifully golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on it, but resist the urge to flip too soon!
- Flip and add flavors: Once the skin is crispy, flip the chicken over. Add the chopped rosemary and lemon slices around the chicken in the skillet. The lemon will add a lovely brightness to the dish.
- Cover and reduce heat: Lower the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet with a lid. This helps the chicken cook through while keeping it moist. Cook for an additional 20-25 minutes.
- Check the temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F. This is key for juicy, perfectly cooked chicken!
- Rest before serving: Once done, remove the skillet from heat and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite even more delicious!
And there you have it! A simple yet satisfying method for cooking chicken on a cast iron skillet. Trust me, the aroma will have everyone in the house flocking to the kitchen. Enjoy every savory bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation time: With just 10 minutes of prep and around 35 minutes of cooking, you can whip up a delicious meal in no time!
- Easy cleanup: Cooking in a cast iron skillet means fewer dishes to wash. Just give it a quick scrub after it cools down, and you’re done!
- Flavorful crispy skin: The high heat of the skillet gives the chicken skin that perfect golden brown and crispy texture that’s oh-so-satisfying!
- Juicy and tender meat: The bone-in, skin-on thighs keep the meat moist and flavorful, ensuring every bite is a delight.
- Versatile serving options: Pair this chicken with a variety of sides or sauces for a meal that can suit any occasion or preference!
Tips for Success
To ensure your chicken on cast iron skillet turns out absolutely perfect every time, here are some pro tips I swear by:
- Dry the chicken well: Patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels is crucial for achieving that ultra-crispy skin. The less moisture, the better the sear!
- Let the skillet preheat: Don’t rush this step! Make sure your cast iron skillet is thoroughly heated before adding the chicken. A hot skillet guarantees that beautiful golden crust we all love.
- Use a meat thermometer: Investing in a good meat thermometer is worth it! It takes the guesswork out of cooking and ensures your chicken is perfectly cooked to that safe 165°F without drying out.
- Season generously: Don’t be afraid to really season your chicken. A generous coating of salt and spices brings out the best flavors, so sprinkle away!
- Let it rest: Once you remove the chicken from the skillet, give it a good 5 minutes to rest before diving in. This simple step allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite juicy and full of flavor.
- Experiment with heat levels: Every stove is different! You might need to adjust the heat slightly to avoid burning the skin while ensuring the chicken cooks through. Keep an eye on it, and don’t hesitate to lower the heat if needed.
With these tips, you’ll be on your way to mastering the art of cooking chicken on a cast iron skillet. Trust me, it’s all about those little details that make a world of difference!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to switch things up with your chicken on cast iron skillet recipe, I’ve got some fantastic ideas for you! Here are a few variations that can add unique flavors or accommodate different dietary preferences:
- Herb swap: Instead of rosemary, try using fresh thyme, oregano, or even tarragon for a different herbal note. Each herb brings its own personality to the dish!
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick. You could also experiment with smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky flavor.
- Honey mustard glaze: Brush the chicken with a mixture of honey and Dijon mustard during the last few minutes of cooking to create a sweet and tangy glaze that perfectly complements the savory chicken.
- Asian-inspired twist: Marinate the chicken thighs in soy sauce, ginger, and garlic beforehand. Serve with sesame seeds and green onions for a delightful fusion flavor!
- Vegetable medley: Toss in some seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus around the chicken in the skillet. They’ll soak up all those delicious juices and make for a complete one-pan meal!
- Cooking method variation: If you’re short on time, consider finishing the chicken in the oven after searing it in the skillet. Just transfer the whole skillet to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) and cook until done, about 20 minutes.
With these variations, you’ll never get bored of this delightful chicken on cast iron skillet recipe. Feel free to mix and match until you find your favorite combination. Cooking should be fun, so let your creativity shine!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got your delicious chicken on cast iron skillet ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it for a complete meal that will impress everyone at the table! Here are some of my favorite pairings:
- Seasonal roasted vegetables: Roasting a mix of carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt really complements the savory chicken. Plus, they’re easy to prepare while the chicken cooks!
- Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes infused with garlic are the perfect comfort food to soak up the flavorful juices from the chicken. Trust me, it’s a match made in heaven!
- Fresh garden salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken. It’s a great way to incorporate some crunch and color into your meal!
- Creamy coleslaw: For a tangy and crunchy side, whip up a quick coleslaw. The coolness and acidity of the slaw balance out the warmth and richness of the chicken beautifully.
- Lemon-herb rice: Fluffy rice cooked with lemon zest and fresh herbs like parsley or dill is a wonderful side that complements the lemon slices used in the chicken recipe. It adds a nice freshness to the plate!
- Homemade gravy: If you’re feeling indulgent, make a quick gravy from the drippings left in the skillet. Just whisk in some flour and chicken broth, and you’ll have a luscious sauce to pour over your chicken and sides.
- Crusty bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for mopping up any juices on your plate. It adds a comforting touch to the meal and is always a crowd-pleaser!
Feel free to mix and match any of these sides with your chicken on cast iron skillet. The key is to create a balanced meal that brings out the flavors of the chicken while satisfying everyone’s taste buds. Enjoy your culinary creations, and don’t forget to savor every bite!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made this delectable chicken on cast iron skillet, and now you have some leftovers (if you can resist devouring it all in one sitting!). Not to worry, I’ve got you covered on how to store and reheat it so that it stays just as delicious as when it came out of the skillet.
First things first, let your chicken cool down a bit after cooking. Once it’s at room temperature, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. This will help keep the chicken moist and flavorful. I recommend storing the chicken in the fridge if you plan to eat it within 3-4 days. Just be sure to keep it covered to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other odors from the fridge.
If you want to keep the chicken for a longer period, you can freeze it! Simply wrap each thigh tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just remember to label the container with the date so you can keep track of freshness.
Now, onto reheating! The best way to reheat your chicken while keeping that glorious crispy skin is to use the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. If you want to crisp up the skin again, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of heating. You’ll be amazed at how good it tastes!
If you’re in a hurry, you can also reheat the chicken in the microwave. Just place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it moist, and heat in short intervals (about 1-2 minutes), checking frequently. Be careful not to overheat it, or you might end up with rubbery chicken.
With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your delicious chicken on cast iron skillet long after the first meal. Trust me, it’s just as satisfying the next day!
Nutritional Information
As with any recipe, the nutritional information can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. While I’ve provided some typical values for this chicken on cast iron skillet recipe, keep in mind that these are estimates. For precise nutritional information, I recommend using a nutrition calculator or app based on the specific products you choose.
Here’s a general breakdown per serving (1 chicken thigh):
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 28g
Feel free to adjust your ingredients based on dietary needs, and enjoy the delicious and nutritious meal you’ve created!
FAQ Section
Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of bone-in?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs will work just fine in this chicken on cast iron skillet recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as boneless thighs typically cook faster—around 20 minutes total should do the trick.
What if I don’t have fresh rosemary?
No worries at all! You can use dried rosemary instead—just remember that dried herbs are more potent, so use about one-third of the amount. You could also swap it out for other fresh herbs like thyme or sage for a different flavor profile.
Can I cook this chicken in the oven instead?
Yes, you can definitely adapt this cast iron chicken recipe for the oven! After searing the chicken on the stovetop, transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) and roast until the chicken reaches the desired internal temperature.
How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?
The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. You want the internal temperature to reach 165°F (74°C) for perfectly cooked chicken. If you don’t have a thermometer, the juices should run clear when pierced at the thickest part.
Can I make this recipe with chicken breasts instead?
Sure thing! You can use chicken breasts, but keep an eye on the cooking time as they can dry out more easily than thighs. Cook them for about 20-25 minutes, checking for that safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Chicken on Cast Iron Skillet Recipe: 7 Steps to Crispy Perfection
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A classic chicken dish cooked to perfection in a cast iron skillet.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, skin-on, bone-in
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 lemon, sliced
Instructions
- Preheat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
- Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Add olive oil to the skillet, allowing it to heat until shimmering.
- Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet.
- Cook for 7-10 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
- Flip the chicken and add rosemary and lemon slices around the chicken.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and cover the skillet.
- Cook for an additional 20-25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper to the seasoning.
- Try using different herbs like thyme or oregano.
- Serve with seasonal vegetables for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-searing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: chicken on cast iron skillet recipe, cast iron chicken recipe, skillet chicken recipe
