Rosemary Butter Chicken Thighs Straight from the Freezer
This delicious and aromatic Rosemary Butter Chicken Thighs recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal without the hassle of thawing. With just a few simple ingredients, you can transform frozen chicken thighs into a flavorful dish that your entire family will love. The combination of buttery richness and fragrant rosemary paired with a touch of lemon juice elevates the taste of the chicken, making it a fantastic addition to your dinner rotation. Serve it with steamed vegetables or a side salad for a complete meal in no time!
3
Servings
180
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
Frozen boneless skinless chicken thighs
3 (frozen)
Butter
1 tablespoon (melted)
Lemon juice
1 tablespoon (freshly squeezed)
Rosemary
1/3 teaspoon (dried or fresh, on each thigh)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2
Line a baking pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly to prevent sticking.
3
Arrange the frozen chicken thighs evenly on the prepared baking pan.
4
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and lemon juice. Drizzle the mixture over each chicken thigh.
5
Sprinkle 1/3 teaspoon of rosemary on top of each thigh, evenly distributing it.
6
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through.
7
Once cooked, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your flavorful chicken thighs!
Nutrition Information
12g
Fat
0.33g
Carbs
15g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cook these chicken thighs straight from the freezer?
Yes, this recipe is specifically designed to cook boneless skinless chicken thighs directly from their frozen state without needing to thaw them first.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius for optimal cooking.
How long does it take to bake frozen chicken thighs?
It typically takes between 50 to 60 minutes for frozen chicken thighs to cook through in a 375 degree oven.
What is the safe internal temperature for cooked chicken?
The chicken is safe to eat once the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit or 74 degrees Celsius.
Do I need to grease the baking pan?
Yes, you should either grease the pan lightly or line it with parchment paper to prevent the chicken from sticking.
What ingredients do I need for the butter mixture?
The mixture consists of 1 tablespoon of melted butter and 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice.
How much rosemary is used per chicken thigh?
You should sprinkle approximately 1/3 teaspoon of rosemary on top of each chicken thigh.
Can I use fresh rosemary instead of dried?
Yes, you can use either fresh or dried rosemary depending on your preference and what you have available.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This specific recipe is scaled for 3 servings using 3 chicken thighs.
What is the calorie count for a serving of this chicken?
Each serving contains approximately 180 calories.
Is this recipe low in carbohydrates?
Yes, this recipe is very low in carbs, containing only 0.33 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
How much protein is in each serving?
Each serving provides about 15 grams of protein.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 12 grams of fat in each serving of the Rosemary Butter Chicken Thighs.
Should I let the chicken rest after baking?
Yes, allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven helps keep the meat juicy.
What are some recommended side dishes?
This dish pairs perfectly with steamed vegetables or a fresh side salad for a complete and healthy meal.
Can I use bone-in chicken thighs?
While this recipe uses boneless thighs, you can use bone-in; however, you may need to increase the cooking time.
Can I substitute lime juice for lemon juice?
Yes, lime juice can be used as a substitute, though it will slightly alter the flavor profile of the dish.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients used in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.
Can I add garlic to this recipe?
Absolutely, adding garlic powder or minced garlic to the butter and lemon mixture would enhance the flavor further.
What type of chicken thighs are recommended?
The recipe calls for frozen boneless skinless chicken thighs.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it is excellent for meal prep as it is quick to assemble and the cooked chicken stores well.
How should I arrange the chicken on the baking pan?
Arrange the frozen thighs evenly on the pan to ensure consistent heat distribution and even cooking.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the recipe by using more chicken and adjusting the butter, lemon, and rosemary proportions accordingly.
What makes this a 'straight from the freezer' meal?
It is designed to eliminate the need for thawing, allowing you to go from freezer to oven immediately.
Does this recipe contain any sugar?
No, there is no added sugar in this recipe.
What is the main flavor profile of this dish?
The dish features a rich, buttery flavor complemented by fragrant rosemary and a bright citrus note from the lemon.
How much total butter is needed for 3 thighs?
You only need 1 tablespoon of melted butter for the entire 3-serving recipe.
Can I use an air fryer?
Yes, you can cook frozen chicken thighs in an air fryer, but you will need to adjust the time and temperature settings based on your specific model.
Is this recipe family-friendly?
Yes, the simple and savory flavors make it a great choice for both adults and children.
How do I apply the lemon and butter?
Mix the melted butter and lemon juice in a small bowl, then drizzle the mixture over each chicken thigh before baking.