Looking to impress your taste buds without spending hours in the kitchen? Dive into the irresistible world of Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs for Two! This mouthwatering dish features succulent, juicy chicken thighs enveloped in a perfectly crispy skin that will have you coming back for seconds. With just a handful of ingredients and a mere 45 minutes from prep to plate, you'll discover how easy it is to create a restaurant-quality meal right at home. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help achieve a crispy skin on the chicken thighs.
- While the oven is preheating, prepare the chicken thighs. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which will help the skin become crispy during baking.
- In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper. This will be your seasoning mixture.
- Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken thighs, making sure to coat both the skin and the underside well. This will enhance the flavor and help the skin crisp up.
- Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Once the oven has preheated, place the baking sheet with the chicken thighs in the oven. Bake for approximately 35 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- For extra crispiness, you can broil the chicken thighs for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of the baking time. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken thighs from the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the meat stays juicy.
- Serve the crispy baked chicken thighs with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delicious meal for two!
Tips
- Patience is Key: Make sure to pat the chicken thighs dry thoroughly before seasoning. Removing excess moisture is crucial for achieving that coveted crispy skin!
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the seasoning mixture. Rub it all over the chicken, including under the skin, for maximum flavor.
- Use Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil not only makes cleanup a breeze but also helps in achieving a crispier bottom.
- Check the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe and delicious results.
- Broil for Extra Crisp: If you want an extra crunch, turn on the broiler for the last few minutes of cooking. Just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!
- Let it Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after baking. This step helps the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.
- Pair It Right: Serve your crispy chicken thighs with sides like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to create a well-rounded meal that’s as delicious as it is satisfying.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 24g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 90mg
