Description
These Juicy Chipotle Chicken Thighs offer a perfect blend of smoky heat and rich flavor, elevated by a simple yet vibrant marinade. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe uses oven baking to achieve tender, flavorful chicken with a slightly crispy skin.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 pieces Chicken Thighs (Juicy and flavorful, substitute with chicken breasts for a leaner option)
Marinade
- 2 teaspoons Chipotle Powder (Adds smoky heat, use smoked paprika if unavailable)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (For marinating and cooking; can swap with vegetable oil for a neutral flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Enhances flavor depth; fresh garlic can be a substitute—use one clove for each teaspoon)
- 1 teaspoon Salt (Adjust to taste depending on dietary restrictions)
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (Adds a subtle spice; freshly ground provides the best flavor)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, mix chipotle powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and olive oil to create a flavorful marinade. This combination delivers a smoky, spicy, and aromatic base for the chicken.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring every piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors penetrate the meat. For best results, marinate overnight.
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easier cleanup.
- Bake the Chicken: Remove the marinated chicken from the fridge and place the thighs skin-side up on the baking sheet, spaced evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) to ensure the chicken is cooked through and juicy.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender, succulent meat ready to serve.
Notes
- Marinating overnight enhances the flavor significantly but a minimum of 30 minutes is sufficient for a tasty result.
- Substitute chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner cut, but cooking times may vary slightly.
- If chipotle powder is unavailable, smoked paprika is a good substitute for smoky flavor with less heat.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is safely cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Allow the chicken to rest after cooking to maintain juiciness and tenderness.
