This oven-fried chicken thighs recipe delivers crispy, flavorful chicken without the need for deep frying. Using a simple coating of breadcrumbs and spices, these thighs are baked to perfection, resulting in a juicy interior and a crunchy exterior.
The preparation is straightforward, making it a great option for weeknight dinners or gatherings. You can easily customize the seasoning to suit your taste preferences.
Preparation of Chicken Thighs
To achieve the perfect crispy oven-fried chicken thighs, start by marinating the chicken in buttermilk. This step is essential as it tenderizes the meat and enhances the flavor.
Allow the chicken to soak for at least 30 minutes, or if time permits, overnight in the refrigerator. This marination process sets the stage for a juicy interior that contrasts beautifully with the crispy exterior.
Creating the Crunchy Coating
The next step involves preparing the coating that will give the chicken its delightful crunch. Combine breadcrumbs with spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika in a shallow dish.
This mixture not only adds flavor but also contributes to the golden-brown color that makes the dish visually appealing. Make sure to mix the ingredients thoroughly for an even distribution of flavor.
Baking to Perfection
Once the chicken is marinated and coated, it’s time to bake. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Arrange the coated chicken thighs on the baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart for even cooking. Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the top to enhance the crispiness.
Serving Suggestions
After baking for 35-40 minutes, the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and have a beautifully crispy skin. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Pair the chicken with a colorful array of roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. The vibrant colors of the vegetables not only add nutrition but also enhance the visual appeal of the dish.
Garnishing for Presentation
To elevate the presentation, garnish the chicken with fresh herbs. This not only adds a pop of color but also freshens the dish with aromatic notes.
Consider using herbs like parsley or thyme, which complement the flavors of the chicken beautifully. The rustic wooden table backdrop adds warmth and charm to the overall presentation.
Nutrition and Enjoyment
This oven-fried chicken thighs recipe serves four and offers a satisfying meal with approximately 320 calories per serving. With a good balance of protein and fat, it makes for a hearty main dish.
Enjoy this dish on a weeknight or at gatherings, knowing that it satisfies both the taste buds and the appetite. The combination of crispy chicken and roasted vegetables is sure to please everyone at the table.
Easy Oven-Fried Chicken Thighs Recipe
These chicken thighs are seasoned and coated with breadcrumbs, then baked until golden brown and crispy. The recipe takes about 1 hour from start to finish and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, soak the chicken thighs in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, combine breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each thigh in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing to adhere.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil over the top.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy. An internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) should be reached.
- Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite sides.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Marinating Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 4 pieces
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 15g