Herb-Infused Baked Chicken Thighs

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 40 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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Herb-Infused Baked Chicken Thighs is a savory dish that's surprisingly easy yet tastes like a gourmet meal. Bursting with the fresh flavors of rosemary and thyme, it's the perfect dinner for when you want something satisfying but not overly complicated.

Ingredients for Herb-Infused Baked Chicken Thighs

Chicken thighs are the star of this dish, offering juicy meat and crispy skin. Their bone-in nature adds depth to the flavor. Olive oil helps to crisp the skin and carries the flavors of the herbs throughout. A simple seasoning of salt and black pepper enhances the natural taste of the chicken. Fresh rosemary and thyme bring a fragrant, earthy aroma, while lemon zest provides a zingy freshness. Garlic adds a warm, savory depth. Finally, a small amount of chicken broth keeps the meat moist and adds a subtle richness.

Tips & Tricks

  • Pat the chicken dry thoroughly to ensure crispy skin.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check doneness — it’s more reliable than guesswork.
  • For even more flavor, marinate the chicken with the herbs and oil for a few hours beforehand.
  • If you prefer boneless thighs, reduce cooking time to avoid drying them out.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a simple green salad to keep things light and fresh. For a heartier meal, serve with mashed potatoes or a wild rice blend. A glass of chilled white wine or a light beer complements the herbaceous flavors nicely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, but use half the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
What if I don't have chicken broth?
You can substitute it with vegetable broth or even water in a pinch.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.

Herb-Infused Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This gives you a consistently hot environment to ensure even cooking. Next, take those chicken thighs and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving that desired crispy skin. Place the chicken in a large bowl.

Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken, ensuring each piece is lightly coated. Sprinkle the salt and black pepper evenly over the thighs. Now, add the chopped rosemary, thyme, lemon zest, and minced garlic. Use your hands to toss everything together until the chicken is well coated with the herbs and seasoning.

Arrange the chicken thighs skin-side up in a baking dish. Pour the chicken broth around the thighs, not over them, to keep the skin dry and crispy while the meat stays moist. Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. You'll know it's done when the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C) and the skin is beautifully golden brown. Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Simple ingredients with big flavor impact.
  • Minimal prep time — perfect for busy evenings.
  • Juicy chicken with a crispy skin every time.
  • Herbs add an aromatic touch that elevates the dish.
  • Flexible enough to pair with many sides.

Ingredients

6 bone-in chicken thighs
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
1 tbsp lemon zest
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup chicken broth

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels and place them in a large bowl.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken, then season with salt and black pepper.
4. Add chopped rosemary, thyme, lemon zest, and minced garlic. Toss until chicken is well coated.
5. Arrange chicken thighs skin-side up in a baking dish. Pour chicken broth around the thighs.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown.
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

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