Get ready to transform your ordinary chicken dinner into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds! This Special Marinated Chicken Parts recipe is not just another chicken dish – it's a flavor explosion that combines the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and aromatic ingredients. With a simple yet magical marinade that infuses each piece of chicken with incredible depth, you'll create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen that's sure to become a family favorite.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 4 chicken drumsticks
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Place chicken thighs and drumsticks in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, then pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2-4 hours to allow flavors to penetrate the meat. For best results, turn the chicken occasionally during marinating.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top for better air circulation.
- Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Arrange chicken pieces on the prepared wire rack, ensuring they are not touching.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, turning pieces halfway through cooking. Chicken is done when internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and skin is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from oven and let chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
- Optionally, garnish with fresh chopped parsley or green onions before serving.
Tips
- Marinating Magic: For maximum flavor, allow the chicken to marinate for at least 2-4 hours. The longer it sits, the more intense the flavors become.
- Temperature Matters: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Rack Technique: Using a wire rack on your baking sheet helps the chicken cook evenly and allows air to circulate, creating that perfectly crispy skin.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Make sure chicken pieces are not touching on the rack to ensure even cooking and crispy exterior.
- Resting is Crucial: Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy.
- Customize Your Marinade: Feel free to experiment with additional herbs or spices like rosemary, thyme, or red pepper flakes to make the recipe your own.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 323kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 14g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 60mg
