Baked Chicken Thighs with Garlic and Herbs

Baked Chicken Thighs with Garlic and Herbs

Baked chicken thighs with garlic and herbs is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings together tender, juicy chicken with aromatic spices. This dish, as shown in the image, features golden-brown chicken thighs baked to perfection in a savory sauce, making it a perfect choice for a satisfying meal. Here’s how you can make this delicious dish at home.

Ingredients

• 8 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season them generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, oregano, thyme, and rosemary.
4. Marinate the Chicken: Rub the marinade all over the chicken thighs, ensuring each piece is well coated.
5. Sear the Chicken: In a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish, heat a little olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and sear for about 3-4 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. Flip the chicken and sear the other side for an additional 3 minutes.
6. Add the Broth and Wine: Pour the chicken broth and white wine (if using) around the chicken thighs in the skillet or baking dish. This will create a flavorful sauce as the chicken bakes.
7. Bake the Chicken: Transfer the skillet or baking dish to the preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
8. Garnish and Serve: Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes, then garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve the chicken thighs with the pan sauce drizzled over the top.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Thighs

• Crispy Skin: Searing the chicken thighs before baking helps to create a crispy skin while locking in the juices.
• Flavorful Sauce: The combination of chicken broth and white wine enhances the flavor of the dish. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, simply use more chicken broth.
• Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs such as basil, tarragon, or marjoram to suit your taste.

Serving Suggestions

Baked chicken thighs with garlic and herbs pair well with a variety of sides such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. For a complete meal, consider serving with:

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make a perfect base to soak up the delicious pan sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, and bell peppers complement the flavors of the chicken.
• Fresh Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing balance to the meal.

Conclusion

Baked chicken thighs with garlic and herbs is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that is both easy to prepare and incredibly delicious. The combination of crispy skin, tender meat, and aromatic herbs creates a meal that is sure to become a favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting guests, this dish is a guaranteed hit. Enjoy the rich flavors and satisfying textures of this delightful chicken recipe!