Delicious Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe

Oven-baked chicken thighs have become increasingly popular among health-conscious individuals and home chefs alike due to their succulent texture and rich flavor. This simple yet delightful dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner, requiring minimal effort and ingredients but delivering maximum satisfaction. Let’s dive into this quick, easy-to-follow recipe.

Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4 people

Ingredients You Will Need

• 6 bone-in chicken thighs (preferably organic)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Lemon slices for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

To start preparing your oven-baked chicken thighs, preheat your oven to 375°F. While the oven heats up, gather all necessary ingredients. Once the temperature is set, arrange the chicken thighs skin-side down in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined. Pour this mixture evenly over the chicken thighs, making sure each piece gets coated generously. This marinade will add a wonderful flavor to your meal by tenderizing the meat while enhancing its natural taste.

Now that everything is prepared, place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. To check this without opening the oven door too often (and thus letting out heat), use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of one thigh. If you notice any uncooked spots, return it to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes.

Once done, remove from the oven and let the chicken rest on a plate for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting period ensures that the juices are reabsorbed into the meat, making each bite extra flavorful. For garnish, place lemon slices over the top of the cooked thighs if desired; this adds an additional layer of zest to complement the dish.

Health Benefits and Nutritional Information

Oven-baked chicken thighs provide various health benefits due to their lean protein content which helps build muscle mass. They are low in fat compared to fried alternatives, promoting heart health as part of a balanced diet. Additionally, they contain essential nutrients like niacin, vitamin B6, phosphorus, and selenium that support overall bodily functions.

Nutritional values per serving: Calories: ~250 kcal; Protein: ~31g; Fat: ~7g; Carbohydrates: ~4g; Cholesterol: ~90mg. These figures can slightly vary depending on portion size but generally fall within this range for four servings.

Tips and Variations

Feel free to experiment with different spices based on your preference or dietary restrictions. Some variations include adding herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano; increasing the amount of garlic for a stronger flavor; or substituting olive oil with vegetable oil if needed.

2. For extra moisture, drizzle some pan sauce over each thigh after resting it on the plate. To make this quick sauce, simply spoon out any remaining marinade in the pan, add a splash of water, and let everything simmer until thickened slightly before pouring it back onto the chicken.
4. Alternatively, consider serving these with steamed vegetables or a side salad for a more balanced meal. This not only complements but also reduces calorie intake if you're watching your weight.

In conclusion, oven-baked chicken thighs offer a delicious and healthy option for busy weeknights when quick meals are desired without compromising on taste or nutritional value. Experiment with flavors and garnishes to suit personal preferences while enjoying the simplicity of this versatile recipe that can be adapted to various dietary needs.