Get ready to transform your ordinary chicken dinner into a mouthwatering Vietnamese culinary adventure! This baked chicken recipe is not just another chicken dish – it's a flavor explosion that combines the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and crispy textures that will transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Vietnam. With a magical marinade that infuses each bite with intense flavor and a cooking technique that guarantees the crispiest skin you've ever tasted, this recipe is about to become your new go-to meal that will impress family and friends alike.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions
- Remove chicken thighs from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to reach room temperature, ensuring even cooking.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top for optimal air circulation and crispy skin.
- In a mixing bowl, combine fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, minced garlic, black pepper, and vegetable oil to create a marinade. Whisk ingredients until sugar dissolves completely.
- Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve crispy skin during baking.
- Place chicken thighs in the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Let marinate for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally to distribute flavors evenly.
- Arrange marinated chicken thighs skin-side up on the wire rack, leaving space between each piece for even heat circulation.
- Bake in preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and skin is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with chopped green onions or cilantro, alongside steamed rice or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always let your chicken come to room temperature before cooking to ensure even heat distribution and perfectly cooked meat.
- Moisture Control: Pat the chicken completely dry before marinating. This is the secret to achieving that irresistibly crispy skin that everyone will rave about.
- Marinade Magic: Don't rush the marinating process. Let the chicken sit in the flavorful mixture for at least 15-20 minutes to allow the seasonings to penetrate deeply.
- Rack Placement: Using a wire rack on your baking sheet is crucial. It allows hot air to circulate around the chicken, creating an evenly crispy exterior.
- Check Internal Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe and perfectly cooked meat.
- Resting Time Matters: Let the chicken rest after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.
- Serving Suggestion: Elevate your dish by garnishing with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions for an extra burst of freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 463kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 36g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 150mg
