Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that’s bursting with flavor and aroma? Dive into the world of Middle Eastern cuisine with our Spiced Chicken Thighs with Garlic! This recipe promises not only a tantalizing taste but also an irresistible crispy skin that will leave your taste buds dancing. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, these succulent chicken thighs are seasoned to perfection and roasted to golden-brown glory. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a meal that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Remove chicken thighs from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to reach room temperature, ensuring even cooking.
- Pat chicken thighs completely dry using paper towels to help achieve crispy skin during roasting.
- In a small bowl, mix cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to create a spice blend.
- Rub chicken thighs thoroughly with olive oil, ensuring complete coverage of the skin and meat.
- Sprinkle the prepared spice blend evenly over both sides of the chicken thighs, massaging the seasonings into the meat.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C), allowing sufficient time for complete heating.
- Place minced garlic evenly across the bottom of a cast-iron skillet or baking dish.
- Arrange chicken thighs skin-side up over the garlic, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Roast in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and skin is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from oven and let chicken rest for 5-7 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro before serving.
Tips
- Room Temperature is Key: Before cooking, remove the chicken thighs from the refrigerator 30 minutes ahead of time. This allows them to reach room temperature, ensuring they cook evenly and stay juicy.
- Dry for Crispiness: Pat the chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels. This simple step is crucial for achieving that coveted crispy skin during roasting.
- Spice it Up: Don’t be shy with the spice blend! Make sure to rub the olive oil and seasonings thoroughly into the skin and meat for maximum flavor penetration.
- Preheat Properly: Ensure your oven is preheated to 425°F (218°C) before placing the chicken inside. This high heat is essential for getting the skin crispy and the meat perfectly cooked.
- Rest Before Serving: After roasting, let the chicken rest for 5-7 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bite.
- Garnish for Freshness: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish with a burst of freshness that complements the spices beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 145mg
