If you're looking for a dish that brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table, these Zesty Herb and Citrus Baked Chicken Thighs are your answer. With a delightful mix of fresh herbs and bright citrus, this recipe is a quick way to turn simple chicken thighs into a culinary masterpiece.
Chicken Thighs: Using bone-in, skin-on thighs ensures juicy meat and a crispy, flavorful skin. Olive Oil: Helps to crisp up the skin and carries flavors. Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors. Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: Add depth and savory notes without overwhelming the dish. Fresh Rosemary and Thyme: These herbs bring an earthiness that complements the citrus perfectly. Lemon and Orange: The zest and juice add brightness and acidity, balancing the richness of the chicken. Minced Garlic: Fresh garlic provides a punch of flavor that pairs beautifully with the citrus. Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and a subtle savory note. Honey: Balances the acidity of the citrus with a touch of sweetness.
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step ensures that when the chicken goes in, it starts cooking immediately, which helps achieve that coveted crispy skin. Lightly grease a baking dish — this will prevent the chicken from sticking and make cleanup easier.
Next, pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and place them in the baking dish. Drying the skin is crucial for crispiness. Now, in a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, rosemary, thyme, lemon zest, orange zest, minced garlic, lemon juice, orange juice, chicken broth, and honey. This mixture is going to coat the chicken with all those lovely flavors.
Pour this zesty herb and citrus concoction over the chicken thighs, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Don’t be shy here — make sure every nook and cranny is covered.
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for 35-40 minutes. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures the chicken is cooked through but still juicy. Once done, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the meat tender.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables or a light, refreshing salad. For a comforting touch, serve it with creamy mashed potatoes or a warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
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