Oven-Grilled Chicken Thighs

This delightful chicken dish features flavorful oven-grilled chicken thighs that are juicy, aromatic, and irresistibly delicious. Perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, these chicken thighs are seasoned with a perfect blend of spices, creating a mouth-watering culinary experience. Easy to prepare and quick to cook, this recipe provides a wonderful balance of savory and herby flavors. By gently flattening the chicken thighs, they cook evenly and retain their juices, making every bite tender and succulent. A brief marination allows the spices to infuse into the meat, enhancing the overall taste profile of the dish. Baking at a moderate temperature ensures that the chicken remains moist without being overcooked. Served alongside your choice of sides, this dish is versatile enough for any weeknight meal or a special occasion. Whether you're cooking for yourself or a crowd, these oven-grilled chicken thighs will be a hit on your dining table. With just a handful of ingredients, creating a delightful meal has never been more accessible.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 500-600 g chicken thighs

Spices

• Salt
• Black pepper
• Santa Maria seasoning for chicken dishes
• Dried parsley
• Santa Maria seasoning - meat addition

Others

• A bit of oil

Preparation Time

• Total time: 1 hour 40 minutes (including 1-hour marination)
• Active cooking time: 40 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Carefully separate the chicken thighs from the bone, ensuring the skin remains intact. Using a meat mallet, gently pound the thighs on the non-skin side just enough to flatten them evenly.
2. Season the Thighs: Sprinkle salt, black pepper, Santa Maria seasoning for chicken, and the meat addition seasoning over the chicken thighs. Add a touch of dried parsley for an aromatic boost.
3. Add Oil: Drizzle a bit of oil over the thighs, ensuring it coats the chicken well to help with browning during cooking.
4. Marinate: Mix the seasoned chicken thighs thoroughly in a bowl. Transfer the bowl to the refrigerator, allowing the thighs to marinate for 1 hour. This step is crucial for infusing the flavors into the meat.
5. Preheat the Oven: As the marination nears completion, preheat your oven to 200°C (about 392°F).
6. Arrange for Baking: Place the marinated chicken thighs on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Position them skin-side up for optimal crispiness.
7. Bake: Insert the tray into the oven on the middle rack. Bake for 20 to 30 minutes, monitoring closely to avoid overcooking.
8. Check for Doneness: To ensure the thighs are fully cooked, carefully insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of a thigh. Aim for an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F).
9. Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken thighs rest for a few minutes after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute for a more flavorful bite.
10. Serve and Enjoy: Arrange the thighs on a serving dish and garnish with extra dried parsley if desired. Ready to indulge!

Tips

• Perfect Marinade: Ensure even seasoning by rubbing the spices thoroughly into the meat.
• Oil Options: Substitute the oil with olive oil for an added layer of flavor.
• Avoid Overcooking: Keep a vigilant eye on the baking time to maintain juicy chicken.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
• Protein: 25g
• Fats: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 5g

Variations

• Spicy Twist: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
• Herbaceous Flavor: Introduce fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary to elevate the aroma.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a light garden salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Serve alongside roasted potatoes or a warm rice pilaf to complement the savory chicken.

Best Places

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