Crispy Herb-Infused Chicken Thighs
Meet your new go-to chicken dish: Crispy Herb-Infused Chicken Thighs. This recipe is all about maximizing flavor while keeping things simple and straightforward. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you want to impress without the stress.
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Ingredients for Crispy Herb-Infused Chicken Thighs
Chicken thighs are your star here, providing a juicy and flavorful base thanks to their higher fat content. We keep the skin on to achieve that irresistible crispiness. Olive oil helps to transfer heat evenly and adds a subtle richness. Sea salt and black pepper are essential for seasoning, enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken. Fresh rosemary is there for its piney aroma, while thyme adds a hint of earthiness. Parsley offers a fresh, peppery balance. Finally, garlic gives a savory depth that ties everything together.
Crispy Herb-Infused Chicken Thighs Tips & Tricks
- For even crispier skin, finish the chicken under the broiler for 1-2 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
- If you only have dried herbs, use about a third of the amount called for fresh herbs.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches the perfect internal temperature.
- Don't skip the resting step; it's key for juicy chicken.
Serving Ideas for Crispy Herb-Infused Chicken Thighs
This chicken pairs beautifully with a light side like a lemony arugula salad or roasted vegetables. For a heartier option, serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a simple risotto. A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the herb flavors wonderfully.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
- Yes, but reduce the cooking time to about 25-30 minutes, as boneless thighs cook faster.
- What if I don't have fresh herbs?
- Dry herbs work too! Remember to use a smaller amount, as they are more concentrated in flavor.
- How should I store leftovers?
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
Crispy Herb-Infused Chicken Thighs Recipe Walkthrough
First thing's first, preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is key for achieving that crispy skin. While the oven is heating up, take a moment to pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This might seem trivial, but it's crucial for getting that perfect crunch.
Next, in a small bowl, combine olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, rosemary, thyme, parsley, and garlic to form a paste. This will be your flavor powerhouse. Now gently lift the skin of each chicken thigh and rub the paste directly onto the meat. Then, pull the skin back over, ensuring it covers the paste to lock in all those flavors.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup a breeze and place the chicken thighs skin-side up. Pop them into the preheated oven and let them roast for 35-40 minutes. You’re looking for that golden brown skin and an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit for doneness.
Once they’re done, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy.
Why This Crispy Herb-Infused Chicken Thighs Works
- Get perfectly crispy skin without frying.
- Infused with the fresh flavors of rosemary, thyme, and parsley.
- Simple enough for beginners, yet impressive for guests.
- Minimal prep time with maximum taste payoff.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Step-by-step Instructions
- 1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.
- 2. Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure maximum crispiness.
- 3. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, rosemary, thyme, parsley, and garlic to form a paste.
- 4. Gently lift the skin of each chicken thigh and rub the paste directly onto the meat, then replace the skin.
- 5. Place chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, skin-side up.
- 6. Roast in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- 7. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.