Oven-“Fried” Chicken Thighs
Servings
4
servingsOven-“Fried” Chicken Thighs offer the delightful crunch of traditional fried chicken without the excess oil and mess. This recipe achieves a crispy, golden exterior and juicy interior by baking seasoned chicken thighs at high heat, making it a healthier and simpler alternative to deep frying. It’s perfect for those craving comfort food on a weeknight without the hassle of frying.
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Ingredients
8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1 tablespoon baking powder (not baking soda)
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Optional: 3 tablespoons Buffalo wing sauce or your favorite sauce for tossing
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 450°F (232°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top. Lightly grease the rack to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a crispy skin.
- Season the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the baking powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
- Arrange on Rack: Place the seasoned chicken thighs on the prepared wire rack, ensuring they are spaced apart for even cooking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 185°F (85°C). Cooking to this temperature ensures tender, juicy meat.
- Optional Sauce Tossing: If desired, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Then, toss the thighs in Buffalo wing sauce or your preferred sauce to coat evenly.
- Serve: Enjoy the crispy oven-“fried” chicken thighs immediately, perhaps with a side of coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Notes
- The use of baking powder in the seasoning helps break down proteins in the skin, promoting a crispy texture when baked. Ensure you use baking powder, not baking soda, to achieve the desired result.
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