Extra Crispy Oven-Fried Chicken Thighs
As I stand by the oven, the warm glow radiating through the kitchen, I can’t help but feel a rush of nostalgia envelop me. The sizzling sounds echo like a comforting song, a reminder of family dinners past. This is the magic of Extra Crispy Oven-Fried Chicken Thighs. The rich aroma of spices and juicy chicken fills the air, instantly transporting me to my grandmother’s kitchen, where her love was as generous as her cooking. These thighs, coated in a golden, crunchy crust, are not just a meal; they are a celebration of comfort, laughter, and shared moments.
Why Make This Recipe
So, why should you lace up your apron and dive into this delightful recipe? Let me share a few reasons why Extra Crispy Oven-Fried Chicken Thighs are your new go-to dish:
- Quick Prep: With just 15 minutes of your time, you can prep these thighs and have them in the oven, giving you more time to enjoy your evening.
- Cozy Flavors: Each bite bursts with savory goodness, making it a dish that wraps you in warmth.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners and festive gatherings, it’s a meal both kids and adults adore.
- Versatile Ingredients: Simple ingredients that you likely have in your pantry and fridge already.
- Easy Meal: Baking instead of frying keeps the kitchens clean and the calories lighter.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering ingredients is part of the joy of cooking. For this recipe, you will need:
- Bone-in Chicken Thighs: The star of the show! Juicy and flavorful, they offer the best contrast with the crispy coating.
- Buttermilk: 1 cup, for marinating. It tenderizes the chicken and infuses moisture. (Substitution: Use yogurt whisked with water!)
- All-Purpose Flour: 1 cup, for that golden crust.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and onion powder – a symphony of flavors. Add cayenne if you want a kick!
- Olive Oil: A generous drizzle helps achieve that delightful crisp.
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Yes, it’s quick for such a delightful dish, but if you can, let the chicken marinate longer for even better flavor!
How to Make Extra Crispy Oven-Fried Chicken Thighs
Now, let’s get to the fun part, shall we? Here’s how to create this crispy, juicy masterpiece:
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Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl or zip-top bag, combine the chicken thighs with buttermilk, salt, and pepper. Make sure each piece is coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight. (This step is crucial for juicy thighs!)
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). As the oven heats, your excitement will build—just wait for that first bite!
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Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, whisk together flour, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Now, imagine the aroma welcoming you as you prepare this mix.
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Coat the Thighs: Remove the chicken from the marinate, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, ensuring they are fully coated.
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Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Place the coated thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle olive oil generously over them. The sizzle of oil on the hot chicken will set your tastebuds tingling with anticipation!
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Bake: Pop them in the preheated oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes. Halfway through, flip the thighs and drizzle with a little more oil to ensure even crisping.
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Crispy Finish: For that extra crunch, switch to broil for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a watchful eye to prevent burning. You want golden perfection!
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Serve: Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. Gather your loved ones, and get ready to enjoy!
Tips and Creative Variations
Once you’ve mastered the basics, feel free to get creative! Here are some delicious variations:
- Herb Infusion: Add dried herbs like thyme or rosemary to the flour for a fragrant twist.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in cayenne pepper or chili powder for those who love a little spice.
- Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
- Crispy Citrus Zest: Add lemon or lime zest to the flour for a fresh, zesty flavor.
Serving Ideas
Now, let’s make your meal even more special. Picture this: steaming mashed potatoes with a drizzle of gravy on the side, fresh sautéed green beans, and a vibrant garden salad. For drinks, a chilled iced tea or a glass of sparkling lemonade will complement the meal beautifully. This isn’t just a dinner; it’s a gathering around the table, where stories flow as easily as the laughter.
Storing and Reheating
Leftovers? You bet—if there are any! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the thighs on a baking sheet, and heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw in the refrigerator before reheating!
Pro Tips for Success
- Pat Chicken Dry: Before marinating, pat the chicken dry to help the buttermilk adhere better.
- High Temperature: Cooking at a higher temperature ensures crispness without overcooking the chicken.
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: Give each piece of chicken enough space on the baking sheet to ensure even cooking.
FAQs
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Can I freeze this recipe?
Yes! Freeze the cooked chicken thighs in an airtight container for up to 3 months. -
What’s the best substitute for buttermilk?
You can make a quick buttermilk substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to curdle. -
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind they may cook faster, so adjust the time accordingly. -
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, if your oven can accommodate, feel free to double the recipe for larger gatherings.
Conclusion
As you take that first crunchy bite of your Extra Crispy Oven-Fried Chicken Thighs, I hope you feel the warmth of family, laughter, and love wrapped in every delicious morsel. This recipe isn’t just about the meal; it’s about the memories you’ll create around the table. So grab your loved ones, serve a heartfelt dish, and let the shared joy and comforting flavors lead the way. Don’t forget to come back and share your experience. Happy cooking!
Contents
Extra Crispy Oven-Fried Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces Bone-in Chicken Thighs The star of the show!
- 1 cup Buttermilk For marinating; substitute with yogurt whisked with water if necessary.
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour For the crispy coating.
- 1 teaspoon Salt For seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper For seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Adds flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Paprika For color and flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder For flavor.
- optional Cayenne Pepper Add for a spicy kick.
- olive oil Olive Oil For drizzling over the coated thighs.
Instructions
Preparation
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl or zip-top bag, combine the chicken thighs with buttermilk, salt, and pepper. Make sure each piece is coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, whisk together flour, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the Thighs: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Place the coated thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle olive oil generously over them.
Cooking
- Bake: Pop them in the preheated oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes. Halfway through, flip the thighs and drizzle with more oil.
- Crispy Finish: For that extra crunch, switch to broil for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a watchful eye to prevent burning.
Serving
- Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Written by Salaheddine — founder of Tasty Sunrise, sharing easy and comforting homemade recipes for every occasion.
📩 admin@tastysunrise.com • Pinterest