Are you tired of the same old chicken breasts? Switch things up with boneless skinless chicken thighs! Not only are they more flavorful, but they’re also more tender and forgiving when it comes to cooking. This recipe is quick and easy, perfect for a weeknight meal or a last-minute dinner party.
Ingredients
1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp paprika
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). 2. In a small bowl, mix together salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and paprika. 3. Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel and place them in a large bowl. 4. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken thighs and toss to coat evenly. 5. Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the chicken thighs and toss again to coat. 6. Place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. 7. Bake the chicken thighs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). 8. Let the chicken thighs rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutrition
This recipe yields 4 servings. Each serving contains approximately:
Calories: 300
Total Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 166mg
Sodium: 663mg
Total Carbohydrate: 1g
Dietary Fiber: 0g
Sugars: 0g
Protein: 35g
Why Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs?
Chicken breasts may be the go-to for many people, but boneless skinless chicken thighs are far superior in terms of flavor and texture. Not only do they have more fat, which adds flavor, but they’re also more forgiving when it comes to cooking. Chicken breasts can easily become dry and tough if overcooked even slightly, while chicken thighs are more forgiving and stay tender and juicy.
How to Buy and Store Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
When buying boneless skinless chicken thighs, look for ones that are uniform in size and have a good amount of fat marbling. This will ensure that they’re tender and flavorful. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 6 months.
What to Serve with Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
These chicken thighs are versatile and can be served with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas:
Roasted vegetables
Garlic mashed potatoes
Quinoa salad
Steamed rice
Cucumber salad
Roasted sweet potatoes
Variations
This recipe is easily customizable to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few ideas:
Swap out the spices for your favorite seasoning blend
Add a squeeze of lemon or lime juice for a bright, citrusy flavor
Top with chopped fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or basil
Brush with your favorite barbecue sauce for a sweet and tangy flavor
Serve with a side of buffalo sauce for a spicy kick
Cooking Tips
Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel before seasoning and cooking to ensure a crispy skin
Let the chicken thighs rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute
Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken thighs are cooked through
Make sure the baking sheet is hot before adding the chicken thighs to ensure a crispy skin
Conclusion
Boneless skinless chicken thighs are a delicious and versatile protein that should have a place in every home cook’s repertoire. This recipe is quick, easy, and customizable to suit your taste preferences. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!