This recipe for flavorful chicken thighs is a winner! With juicy, tender meat and a tasty marinade, these thighs will make your meal feel special every time.
Cooking them always fills the kitchen with yummy smells, and I can’t help but sneak a taste before dinner. Trust me, they’re too good to wait for! 😋
I love how simple it is to prepare this dish. Just marinate, cook, and enjoy—perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner with family!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs are the best for flavor and tenderness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, boneless, skinless thighs or chicken breasts work too, but they may not be as juicy.
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the marinade. You can substitute with avocado oil or vegetable oil if needed. It’s best to use a good quality olive oil for the best flavor.
Soy Sauce: For those avoiding soy, tamari is a great gluten-free option. Coconut aminos also provide a sweeter, soy-free flavor. It’s good to keep a bottle of both around for different needs.
Honey: This adds sweetness to balance the soy sauce. You can swap it for maple syrup or agave nectar if you’re vegan or looking for a different sweetener.
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a lovely smoky flavor, but regular paprika or chili powder can be used in a pinch. For a little heat, consider adding cayenne or chili powder into the mix!
How Do You Achieve Crispy Chicken Skin?
Crispy chicken skin is a highlight of this dish! Follow these steps for best results:
- Make sure the chicken thighs are dried with a paper towel before cooking. This helps the skin crisp up better.
- Cook on high heat to start, whether grilling or in the oven. This promotes browning and crisping.
- If you’re baking, placing the chicken directly on the wire rack set over a baking sheet helps air circulate around the thighs, resulting in crispiness.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking. This makes sure the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist while the skin stays crispy.
Bobby Flay’s Flavorful Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh chopped parsley or cilantro for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time, plus a minimum of 2 hours for marinating in the refrigerator. Cooking will take about 20 minutes on the grill or 35-40 minutes in the oven. So, set aside a bit of time and enjoy the wonderful flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Create the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, honey, minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper. This flavorful marinade is the key to juicy and tasty chicken thighs!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure they are well coated. Seal the bag (or cover the dish) and place it in the refrigerator. Allow them to marinate for at least 2 hours, but if you have time, overnight is even better for flavor.
3. Prepare for Cooking:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, which is about 400°F (200°C). If you’re using the oven, line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Discard the leftover marinade (we don’t want to use it again). If grilling, place the chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until the skin is crispy and beautifully charred. Then flip them over and grill for another 6-8 minutes, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Oven Option:
If you prefer using the oven, place the chicken thighs skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet. Roast them for about 35-40 minutes, or until the skin is golden and crisp, and the meat is cooked through.
6. Rest and Garnish:
After cooking, let the chicken thighs rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices settle in. Finally, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley or cilantro on top for a burst of color and flavor!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
These flavorful chicken thighs are perfect served with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Bobby Flay’s Flavorful Chicken Thighs
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs! They cook faster, so you’ll want to reduce the grilling or baking time by about 5-10 minutes. Just ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How Long Should I Marinate the Chicken?
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better! This gives the marinade plenty of time to infuse the chicken with delicious flavors.
What Should I Do with Leftover Chicken Thighs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave. They can also be enjoyed cold in salads or wraps!
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! To add some heat, you can include cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or even a splash of hot sauce in the marinade. Adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance!
